Students and staff from the Southern Ute Indian Montessori Academy gathered at the Bear Dance corral entrance prior to starting the Southern Ute Bear Dance. The students have traditionally started the Bear Dance for many years.

Anxious young girls wait for the Bear Dance to begin so they can select a boy to be their dance partner.

Bear Dance Chief, Matthew J. Box talks to dancers before the blessing of the Bear Dance Grounds. He explained expectations and etiquette for Bear Dance weekend.

SUIMA students kick-off the Bear Dance as they have in years past. The dance is the last event for the SUIMA students, ending their school year.