For many considering the University of Chicago, dance might not be the first thing that springs to mind. UChicago is renowned for its rigorous academics, particularly in fields like economics, and its stunning Gothic architecture. However, for students with a passion for the arts, and specifically dance, the university offers a vibrant and surprisingly diverse dance club scene. As someone who arrived on campus eager to explore both intellectual pursuits and artistic passions, I wondered if I could find an outlet for my burgeoning interest in dance. While my prior dance experience was limited to casual involvement in a high school Chinese traditional dance club, I was keen to delve deeper into the world of movement.
My exploration of extracurriculars during my first year quickly revealed a treasure trove of dance opportunities. Beyond the massive Registered Student Organization (RSO) fair, where clubs for virtually every imaginable interest are showcased, the UChicago Dance Council hosts an annual Open House. This event is a fantastic introduction for first-year students to the dynamic dance culture on campus, featuring performances from over ten different groups, each with their unique style and energy. I was immediately captivated by the sheer variety and talent on display, realizing that UChicago offered far more than just academic rigor; it was a place where artistic passions could truly flourish. This was my first glimpse into the exciting world of Chicago Dance Clubs within the university setting.
One group that immediately grabbed my attention was Excolatur Dance Crew, a competitive hip-hop and urban dance team. Their infectious music and dynamic dance moves were instantly appealing, sparking a vision of myself diving into the world of hip-hop. Despite having no prior experience in this genre, I convinced a few friends to join me for one of Ex Crew’s weekend workshops, open to the public. These workshops offered a taste of their self-choreographed routines, and it was even more enjoyable than I had anticipated. Fueled by this positive experience, I decided to aim for the next level: auditioning for the team. The audition process mirrored the workshop format but with a much larger group of participants and a palpable sense of anticipation. Although the Fall Auditions were advertised as open to all skill levels, the room was clearly filled with experienced dancers, and unfortunately, I didn’t make the team. Despite this initial setback, my interest in Chicago dance clubs remained strong.
Alt text: Dynamic performance by Excolatur Dance Crew, a hip-hop focused Chicago dance club at the University of Chicago, showcasing urban dance moves.
Undeterred, I turned my attention to UC Dancers, the university’s oldest dance company. They focus on modern and contemporary styles, which I thought might be more accessible to learn than hip-hop. However, similar to my Ex Crew audition, I felt intimidated by the process, even though auditions were also advertised as open to dancers of all levels. Again, I didn’t secure a spot on the UC Dancers team, and my search for the right Chicago dance club continued. Drawing on my background in Chinese traditional dance, I explored several Asian culture RSOs, including the Chinese Undergraduate Students Association (CUSA) and Sensasia. I hoped to find an opportunity to participate in a dance performance within their annual cultural shows. While I did join a team that performed K-pop dances for the Korean Student Organization (KSO) showcase, it didn’t quite feel like the right long-term fit.
Just as I was about to feel discouraged, I remembered a dance group that had made a very positive impression: the Ballroom & Latin Dance Association (BLDA). At the beginning of Autumn Quarter, my Resident Assistant (RA) had encouraged a group of us first-years to attend the “Ballroom Bootcamp” hosted by BLDA in the International House theater. Despite never having tried ballroom dance before, I found the workshop surprisingly fun. We learned the basics of waltz and cha-cha with friends and even participated in a mock competition that mirrored the real collegiate competitions the team attends. The event concluded with pizza and drinks, and we watched impressive performances from dancers of all levels within BLDA. I was struck by the welcoming atmosphere and the evident passion of the dancers, making BLDA a standout among the Chicago dance clubs I had encountered.
Alt text: Beginner dancers participating in a Ballroom Bootcamp workshop, a Chicago dance club event at UChicago, learning introductory ballroom steps.
When Winter Quarter arrived and BLDA hosted another workshop, I decided to give it another try. This workshop was smaller than the Bootcamp but equally enjoyable. I then started attending their weekly lessons, which are free for newcomers during their first quarter. Even though my attendance was inconsistent at first because I didn’t have a regular partner, the BLDA board members were incredibly welcoming and consistently reached out, helping me integrate into the group and learn about the various styles of ballroom and Latin dance. After a few weeks, Carol, the competition manager, contacted me. She had found me a partner and invited me to attend an upcoming competition at Valparaiso University. The prospect of competing was daunting, especially considering my limited experience. Even after meeting my partner, Andrew, who had only one more quarter of experience, I was unsure if I could learn sixteen different ballroom and Latin dance styles in just two weeks. However, I realized that everyone starts somewhere, and the supportive environment of Chicago dance clubs at UChicago was encouraging.
One of the best aspects of collegiate ballroom dance is the level-based system: Newcomer, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and so on. This meant I wouldn’t feel completely out of place on the dance floor, as everyone in the Newcomer level was at a similar stage of learning. The competition turned out to be a fantastic experience. I bonded with my team members during the three-hour car ride, a pre-competition “hair party,” last-minute practice sessions, and a team dinner. It was a wonderful weekend escape from academic pressures, and I was incredibly happy that I decided to try ballroom dance. Discovering BLDA was a highlight of my exploration of Chicago dance clubs.
Alt text: Team photo of the University of Chicago Ballroom Dance Team, a prominent Chicago dance club, after a collegiate competition, displaying team camaraderie.
Although in-person events were temporarily paused, my enthusiasm for dance at UChicago has only grown. I eagerly anticipate returning to the dance floor and reconnecting with the BLDA community. I’ve truly found a welcoming family within BLDA, and my journey through Chicago dance clubs at UChicago has been an enriching and unforgettable part of my university experience. For anyone interested in dance, regardless of experience level, the University of Chicago offers a diverse and supportive dance club scene waiting to be explored.
