For 35 years, the Modernextension Dance Company (Mx Dance) at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has provided a unique platform for students to cultivate their passion for dance. This student-run organization allows dancers to hone their skills not only in performance but also in the crucial behind-the-scenes aspects of dance production. Specializing in a diverse range of styles including modern, contemporary, jazz, and lyrical, MX Dance offers a professional yet welcoming atmosphere where dancers can thrive without the intense pressure of competition.
“I chose MX Dance because of the strong sense of community and the opportunity to train in a way that reminded me of my dance background,” explains Lacey McLamb, president of MX Dance. “The company is incredibly friendly and inclusive, which really appealed to me as I wanted to continue dancing but in a less competitive environment than I had previously experienced.”
Each year, MX Dance members dedicate themselves to rehearsals and participate in master classes led by local dance professionals. This rigorous preparation culminates in two major performances annually: an improvisational show in the fall and a choreographed recital in the spring. In their 2023 fall improv performance, held at the Ackland Art Museum, dancers drew inspiration directly from the surrounding art pieces. This innovative performance saw them guide audiences through the museum galleries, blending movement with visual art. Looking ahead, their spring recital is scheduled for April 13 at East Chapel Hill High School.
“We dedicate the entire year to preparing for this performance, making it incredibly fulfilling for both our student choreographers and dancers when all the elements finally come together,” says Audrey Zuck, MX Dance secretary.
Student Leadership in Motion
What sets MX Dance apart is its commitment to being entirely student-run. From organizing small group rehearsals and choreographing original pieces to managing fundraising efforts, every facet of the company is driven by its student members.
MX Dance brings together dancers from diverse backgrounds, each with unique training experiences and styles. This collective of varied talents unites under a shared passion, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment within a large university setting.
For Zuck, a political science major, MX Dance provided a vital connection after transferring to UNC. “Dance brings me a unique joy that is irreplaceable. When I came to Carolina, I knew I needed to bring dance back into my life, and MX Dance was the perfect place to do that,” she shares. “My favorite aspect of being in MX Dance is the people. I’ve formed some of my closest friendships here, and I love the collaborative process of creating choreography and learning from my fellow dancers.”
Beyond the artistry of dance, MX Dance provides members with valuable transferable skills essential for show production. These encompass choreography, alongside the administrative expertise needed for production, from fundraising initiatives to managing stage lighting and logistics.
Dancers perform improv dance at Ackland Art Museum, interacting with art displays, showcasing MX Dance's innovative performances.MX Dance members enhance their skills through master classes and annual improv and choreographed performances. (Jon Gardiner/UNC-Chapel Hill)
MX Dance company members dedicate four days a week to rehearsals and choreography sessions at Woollen Gymnasium.
Choreographers within MX Dance are given complete creative autonomy, allowing them to develop a wide array of captivating dances for their fellow company members.
“I am passionate about both choreography and teaching dance. Seeing my choreography come to life on stage is incredibly rewarding,” says McLamb, who also serves as a choreographer. “Dance is an unrestricted creative outlet. A dance piece can convey a spectrum of emotions and deeply resonate with an audience, making viewers feel immersed in the movement itself.”
McLamb, a management and society major, aspires to open her own dance studio after graduation, driven by the profound impact dance has had on her life. MX Dance is instrumental in equipping her with the necessary skills to pursue this entrepreneurial path.
“Being part of MX Dance and leading this company is not only allowing me to continue pursuing my passion for dance, but also significantly preparing me for my future career aspirations,” McLamb concludes.
