From the first beat to the last step, Barjche was varied and interesting. Whether the audience was tapping their feet to the rhythms or solemnly watching the costume-clad performers, everyone left Fisher Theatre with wide smiles on their faces.

This year, due to the vast number of participants, Barjche was broken into two shows: “Familiar Abstractions” and “Strange Places.”

The performers in the event, members of the Iowa State dance club Orchesis 1, showed much diversity and depth. Their dance styles included international, ballet, interpretive and tap.

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of this event were the choreographers, most of whom were amateur Iowa State students. Their programs demonstrated much hard work and effort, and could be the beginnings of careers in professional choreography for some.

A nice addition to the festival is the wide variety of dance styles and themes portrayed throughout Barjche. First-timers and veterans alike could appreciate the variety and dimension of each performance.

Julie Reger, freshman in elementary education, enjoyed Barjche for the visual appeal and themes.

“It was very interesting,” says Reger. “It’s fun to watch. I like the variety and the ones that use a lot of dancers. There is a lot to watch.”

Hardly a dull moment existed as the show progressed from dance to dance with only a slight stage darkening in between.

The dancers of Orchesis I showed agility, balance and athleticism in their moves, ranging from spinning on a toe tip to tumbling and somersaulting across the stage.

Colin Scott, long time Barjche viewer from Stratford, was pleased with this years performance.

“It was really, really good,” Scott says. “I come to it every year because it’s well worth the money. All I can say is it’s really, really good.”

This year did not fail in its task to bring the Iowa State community a fun weekend of dance, energy and talent.

Luke Rolfes is a junior in English from Polk City