Last night, I didn’t quite fulfill my expectations of making a really great, inspirational speech for our “Hallway Session”. So here is what I really meant to say (but wasn’t able to).
For weeks, I had been simultaneously dreading and anticipating the closing night of “Continuum”. Orchesis has been such an integral part of my college experience, and has shaped me into the person I have become in the past four years. I think everyone in the company can agree that dance has the ability to transcend us into a world that is not known to most people. The unique connections we all share, the art of moving, and the thrill of being on stage are sensations that are hard to describe, unless you are a dancer. I was dreading the idea that this was my last performance with Orchesis, because I didn’t want the incredible journey to end. However, I knew that closing night is the time to celebrate everything we have accomplished. It is a time to dance for the mere love of dancing.
The word, “Continuum”, was so essential to the growth of Orchesis this past year. At the beginning, we were just individuals with different ideas and expectations. As we prepared for our concert, these ideas and expectations transformed and combined into substantial works of art. The individuality soon melted away as we all united as a group, combining our efforts to produce a wonderful show. I was so proud to watch this happen; to see dancers overcome hefty obstacles and truly commit to dance was so inspiring. We have all contributed to the continuum of Orchesis—a continuum that will carry on far into the future, which is something really exceptional to be a part of.
To end this “speech”, I just want to congratulate all of my fellow “Orchies”. We should all feel so proud of what we have accomplished. Thank you all for being so dedicated, talented, friendly, and just an overall incredible group. I have loved being president, and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for Orchesis!
One last thing. I promise.
If any of you “Orchies” have any doubts of coming back next year, please do come back. I can guarantee that you will regret your decision and want to be on that stage more than anything!
Photo:
Prem Ananda
