Janet Gray Studios’ “Ruby Anniversary” Celebrates 40 Years of Dance Education

Janet Gray Studios will present its biennial performance entitled “Ruby Anniversary—Celebrating 40 Years of Dance Education” at Kingsbury Hall on Thursday, June 1 at 7:00 p.m. This performance will feature choreography inspired by the geological, metaphysical, and cultural properties of the ruby gemstone.

“Our 13 member talented faculty have created extraordinary dances in all styles including ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, contemporary, hip hop and African,” said studio owner and founder, Janet Muse Gray.

Dancers will also perform guest choreography by Stephanie Thomas and Rosie Banchero. Both choreographers studied with Janet Gray in their youth and went on to choreograph and perform professionally in the community. Stephanie Thomas choreographs for and performs with local musical theater groups. Rosie Banchero created her own group Wofa Afro Fusion Dance which regularly collaborates with Merveilles Utah! Kissidugu Foundation to bring workshops, cultural education, and performances to our Utah arts community.

Otter Creek, a nationally recognized folk duo with a reputation for musical virtuosity, will perform musical interludes. Otter Creek’s Mary and Peter Danzig combine folk music with a seasoning of western roots combined with some Celtic flavoring.

Janet Muse Gray has owned and artistically directed her private studio since 1978. Her students have appeared professionally on Broadway, in Disney productions, on major cruise lines, in Actor’s Equity musical theater tours, and locally at the Pioneer Theatre Company, Egyptian Theatre Park City, and Hale Center Theatre. Currently she serves as board member for Repertory Dance Theater and the National Fine Arts Advisory Board for the College of Performing and Visual Arts, Southern Utah University.