Members of Tau Sigma of Orchesis

In tribute to the first University of Kentucky dance performance troupe, the UK Dance Ensemble hosted a reunion for members of Tau Sigma of Orchesis prior to the annual UK Spring Concert. In honor of their pioneering spirit, the Dance Ensemble dedicated the spring concert to members of Tau Sigma who brought modern dance to the campus and community.

The Tau Sigma reunion was held at the Singletary Center for the Arts. Among those in attendance were former dancers Marian Congleton ’45 AG, Ann Greis ’46 EDU, Marilyn Moosnick ’52 AS, Carolyn Llewellyn ’59 EDU, Mary Lynn Turley ’49 AS, and Cynthia Matthews, daughter of Mary King Montgomery Kouns.

Dance has been a part of the physical education curriculum since the early 1900’s. In 1939, Mary King Montgomery Kouns,’33 FA,’39 AS founded Tau Sigma of Orchesis to provide students an opportunity to perform. Ms. Kouns was a former student of Hanya Holm, one of the founders of American modern dance. Under her leadership and influence, modern dance flourished at the University throughout the 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s.

Dr. Rayma Beal arrived at the University of Kentucky in 1986 and established the UK Dance Ensemble to expand opportunities for students to explore, choreograph and perform different styles of dance.

The UK Dance Ensemble will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2007. A full weekend of events, including Tau Sigma and Dance Ensemble alumni reunions, will be held in conjunction with the 2007 Spring Concert on April 20, 21, and 22.

For more information, contact Laurel Martin, (859) 257-2479 or by e-mail: laurel.martin@uky.edu

Updated on June 5, 2006 16:36 by the Webmaster - Content by Brad Duncan