In 1941, Virginia Tanner returned to Salt Lake City, Utah, and was appointed director of dance at the McCune School of Music and Art. Her primary goal was establish a youth-oriented program that would provide the best possible training for each age level. She was confident that through the use of wholesome creative activity, children would develop alert minds, healthy bodies and strong character. Virginia collaborated with many faculty and accompanists to create her legacy. Through collaboration came growth. Components of the University of Utah Virginia Tanner Creative Dance Program include:

Children’s Dance Theatre (CDT) is the performing arm of the University of Utah Virginia Tanner Creative Dance Program. The company was established in 1949 by Virginia Tanner. Since 1979, under the artistic direction of Mary Ann Lee, the company has continued to grow in size and programming, resulting in continued state, national and international recognition. In February 2000, a major goal was realized when the program became a part of the University's Department of Modern Dance in the College of Fine Arts.

This company of young dancers, ages eight to eighteen, shares its performances annually with more than 45,000 Utahns. Every spring, the company showcases an original work at the Capitol Theatre in Salt Lake City. CDT is the second oldest performing arts organization in Utah and performs regularly under the auspices of the Utah Arts Council’s Performing Arts Tour, with support from the Zoo, Arts and Parks fund, and in collaboration with other arts organizations and individuals. In keeping with the mission to share dance with a broad population base, most CDT performances include matinees for school-aged children.