DancersDrummersDreamers

Dancers Drummers Dreamers was founded in 1991 by University of Idaho Professors Dan Bukvich and Diane Walker when they combined dance theatre and the percussion ensemble into a collaborative production. Bukvich’s composition class expressed interest in composing for the choreographers; all music was performed live on stage with the dancers in the UI Administration Building Auditorium. Since then, the production has grown to approximately 100 students performing to sell-out crowds each spring.

The original intent of blending music/sound and movement into a seamless whole still exists for Dancers Drummers Dreamers. The percussion ensemble has evolved into the DancersDrummersDreamers Ensemble and models the original intent clearly. Student choreographers, composers, dancers and musicians work together from the beginning of the semester to create original works for each show.

2013 marks the 22nd year of this unique professional training program that exists at no other university. The process of developing the concert is as important as the product. Participating students have learning opportunities in problem solving, creative thinking, leadership development and professional knowledge and skill development. Barry Bilderback, Assistant Professor of music, recently observed, “Dancers Drummers Dreamers (DDD) is an outstanding program that gives students a real-life experience as it relates to the music and entertainment industry. The program produces such amazing, dedicated, and professional performing artists … which is why, so often, these students are always eager to do everything it takes to perform.”

The overall performance is like a modern vaudeville show with music, dance, songs and some slapstick comedy. The performance is a family event, described as eclectic, playful, fun, entertaining, collaborative, high octane energy, unique, and imaginative.

Thank you to our Sponsors:
University of Idaho former President M. Duane Nellis
College of Education Dean, Corinne Mantle-Bromley
College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences Dean, Kathy Aiken
Boise School District Foundation
Associated Students of the University of Idaho (ASUI)
Lionel Hampton School of Music