About the Production 

An Evening of Saint-Saëns features compositions by the romantic era French composer Camille Saint-Saëns. Lesser-known musical gems are strewn amongst memorable selections from Carnival of the Animals and the iconic Danse Macabre. Following the success of last year’s live music for Coppélia, this year’s dancers perform in partnership with live piano by senior accompanist Douglas Baker and guest accompanist Lyle Juracek.  

Each annual spring concert provides a window into dancers' progression as they develop skills and artistry from Pre-Ballet at age 6 through upper-level Ensemble and beyond. Essential to their dance education, student performers are immersed in the rehearsal environment and production elements of a cohesive, theatrical dance performance. 

This year, graduating seniors Althea Downing-Sherer and Josie Hermiston shine in a duet choreographed by UI Associate Professor of Instruction Kristin Marrs. Ellie Daley (beloved teacher and UI Dance BFA student) shows the excellence attainable when youth students continue dancing into college as she captivates audiences in a solo by Artistic Associate Juliet Remmers.