FSU School of Dance Kicks off Anniversary Celebration with Exhibit at WJB Gallery

Dance students at Florida State University in 1938. The School of Dance is celebrating 90 years of Dance at FSU.

Florida State University’s School of Dance is kicking off a year-long celebration honoring 90 years of Dance at FSU with an engaging exhibit exploring the department’s history. 

“Do it with Love” will be on display in WJB Gallery through July 29.

“Do it with Love: A Gallery Exhibition” includes photo and video montages, and a timeline chronicling the past 90 years of hosting dance classes, 60 years of awarding dance degrees, and 20 years serving as the home of the Maggie Allesee National Center for Choreography. 

The name of the exhibition honors Nancy Smith Fichter, PhD, who served as Chair of the School of Dance for 33 years, retiring in 1997 after a 45-year career in Dance. 

“Dr. Fichter’s commitment and dedication to dance built the foundation of what the School of Dance is today, said Anjali Austin, School of Dance Chair and co-curator of the exhibit. “She held a vision for unimaginable possibilities and instilled in many of us a fortitude for moving the field forward. She encouraged everyone who passed through Montgomery Gym, now known as Montgomery Hall, to ‘do it with love.’ The exhibition is representative of this.” 

“Do it with Love” will also feature a collection of costumes by the school’s long-time designer Currie Leggoe, who will be retiring this November after 35 years of service to the University. 

The exhibit will be on display in WJB Gallery, located on campus in the William Johnston Building (WJB 1085) from June 12 through July 29. A special opening reception will take place on Tuesday, June 20 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.