Woman, the Pioneer is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of pioneer women, past and present, who braved the Western wilderness and continue to blaze new trails today. This suite of seven dances, performed by a company of twelve dancers, expresses the unwavering commitment and joyous strength of women. Shot on film, in the breathtaking, untouched landscapes of Utah and Arizona, the dance, the music and the land come together to create unforgettable images of the pioneer experience. The original score echoes the faith, hope and courage of these valiant women.
-The Trek . . .recalling the endless miles across the plains.
-Dance for Five . . .women of courage, tenderness, joy, ingenuity and toil.
-In Remembrance . . .of the many children who perished during the journey.
-Dance of Rejoicing . . .with praise and joy they reach the valley of the Great Salt Lake.
-Mother and Child . . .even in times of tribulation, children grow through love and play.
-Courage Retested . . .against the swarm of locust, they fight for their crops and homes
-Dance of Supplication . . .to their "Farther, which art in heaven".
Caroline Prohosky's most explicitly LDS dance film (and the most extensive LDS dance film to date), done for KBYU.
Originally choreographed by nationally renowned dance educator, Virginia Tanner, as a commissioned work for the 1962 Seattle World's Fair and later rechoreographed by Christine Ollerton, who danced in the original company. Choreography adapted for film by Caroline Prohosky.
Music created by Robert Cundick, composer and longtime Tabernacle Organist on historic Temple Square in Salt Lake City, and performed by a 30-piece orchestra.
A co-production of KBYU and the Department of Dance, Brigham Young University.