CLARION, Pa. — Clarion University Minority Student Services and Phi Kappa Phi fraternity will host a performance of the Allegany River Indian Dancers at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 7, in Gemmell multi-purpose room.

The group’s intent is to preserve Iroquois history and culture through dance.

“We not only present the dances but offer an opportunity for our audiences to participate and try some of the dances. It’s a hands-on experience for your community,” said Bill Crouse, a member of the Seneca nation and leader of the dancers.

The Allegany River Indian Dancers performed for Clarion University in 2009. Rogers Laugand, director of Minority Student Services, referred to the program as “edu-taining and engaging.”

The event will seek to educate people on historical and cultural aspects of the Iroquois nation without “disclosing that which is ceremonial, religious or sacred to their people.” Various dancers, singers, storytellers, and artists will be showcased, shedding light on many different parts of the culture. The Iroquois alliance of nations is made up of people and cultures of six different eastern woodlands tribes: Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, Mohawk, and Tuscarora nations.

Most of the presenters are residents of the Allegany Indian Reservation, located about 50 miles south of Buffalo, N.Y., and many are members of Crouse’s family.

The performance is free and open to the public.