Native American Dance and Presentation at Daggy Hall

PULLMAN, Wash.— “Enduring Spirit – dance of two nations” will premiere at Jones Theatre in Daggy Hall on the Washington State University campus at 8 p.m. April 28, with another show scheduled at Lewiston High School at 2 p.m. April 29.

The dance, which has been choreographed by Janine Kovsky, is a historical rendering of initial contact and following centuries of relations between Native Americans and incoming Europeans. It was originally presented in 2005 and, after receiving highly favorable responses from audiences, the Inland Northwest Community Foundation supplied a $12,000 grant to the Lewiston Civic Theater to underwrite the completion of the choreography.

“I’m always enthusiastic about diversity projects,” said Phyllis Gooden-Young, who directs the dance division at WSU and was instrumental in championing the project. “Anything that brings about understanding and acceptance in our great nation is a plus for the future.”

The program will include presentations by Native American lecturers speaking on the historical role of dance within Indian culture as well as the dance performance. After the performance, speakers will talk about their culture and the significance of dance and music in everyday and ceremonial life.  

Tickets are $8 and can be purchased online at LCTheater.org or at the Lewiston Civic Theater box office; The Bookie Too, in Pullman; and Book People of Moscow, in Moscow. Tickets can be purchased at Daggy Hall and the Lewiston High school the night of the performances only.

Nez Perce dancers and Modern dancers performed “Enduring Spirit – dance of two nations” at Lewiston Civic Theatre for the Summer of Peace in June of 2006.