By Hannah Bower; Photo Credits to Hannah Bower
On September 12, SU Dance Corps (SUDC) hosted their annual orientation, giving students the opportunity to connect with other dancers, try out various classes, and execute their creativity in the studio. With the number of students filtering through the Greta Ray Studio in Weber, SUDC proved that they are an organization built on hard work, great energy, and warm welcomes.
The day’s events kicked off with an introduction from the executive board and choreographersfollowed by a group stretch; a tradition before each performance and a perfect way to start the year.
SUDC’s lyrical choreographer, Norah Foreman, has led the group bonding activity since the last Showcase. “My favorite thing about group stretch is it really just allows us to come together in the same room, take a deep breath, and remember why we dance in the first place,” Foreman shared. She enjoys the “positive movement” it brings and the sense of community that is established. “It’s a really great time to feel relaxed and like ourselves.”
Once everyone was warmed up and ready to move, dancers were flowing in and out of the space, eager to try each class that will be held this year. SUDC President Julia Rudat says this is one of her favorite events of the year because it might be the only opportunity she gets to take a class she otherwise wouldn’t have the time for. “I love getting to meet all the new people, all the new faces,” Rudat said. “It’s a nice, energetic vibe to start the day and the year.”
The choreographers taught a 20-30 second combination , giving students a taste of what each unique style has to offer. Between jazz, ballet, pointe, tap, lyrical, contemporary, contemporary-jazz, musical theatre, technique, and hip-hop, there are certainly a plethora of options, and each was very fun to watch (and/or take part in!)
As for myself, I had an amazing time participating in this event. Lucy Hutchens taught a simple, sassy jazz routine; Devynn Steinman shared a powerful take on contemporary-jazz, and Ava Lebresco, SUDC’s newest choreographer, brought hip-hop back into the space with a fast-paced routine that was a fun challenge to learn.
After a year’s absence, SUDC is thrilled to bring hip-hop back, as it is many dancers’ favorite style. SUDC opens applications for new choreographers at the end of every academic year, so be on the lookout if that interests you!
As a choreographer of SUDC, I also got to teach a combo of my own. This year, I am proud to be SUDC’s musical theatre choreographer, having taught new and returning members a short routine to “Cell Block Tango” from Chicago. Being in the Theatre Department, this is where my heart lies. What I love most about the class is how reliant it is on the context of the song and the feeling the music provides, and I am especially excited that the class is now available for more fellow Theatre majors to take!
If you missed orientation, not to worry! The first two weeks of classes are called trial weeks and offer more opportunities to try out classes you’re interested in; no commitment required. The schedule is posted on SUDC’s Instagram page, and you can reach out to them with additional questions.
Overall, it is looking to be another fantastic year for SUDC. Preparations for the Spring Showcase are already underway, and SUDC’s Vice President, Kathleen Bauer, is looking forward to it. She has helped organize the Showcase for years, and she will be missed when she graduates.
“I am really excited, as Vice President, to showcase the combination of the work that my class has done over the past four years,” Bauer revealed. “And to know that I’m leaving this club a better place than I found it.”