For many, the University of Chicago conjures images of rigorous academics, groundbreaking research, and perhaps its stunning Gothic architecture. Dance might not be the first thing that springs to mind. As someone deeply passionate about the arts alongside the intricacies of economics, I initially wondered if I could nurture my burgeoning interest in dance amidst UChicago’s demanding environment. My dance background was casual at best – a couple of years in a high school Chinese traditional dance club. If you’re a seasoned dancer, know that I hold immense respect for your dedication and artistry.
However, my worries were quickly dispelled. During my first year, I stumbled upon a vibrant and diverse dance community right here on campus. Beyond the overwhelming Registered Student Organization (RSO) fair, where you can find a club for almost any imaginable interest, the UChicago Dance Council hosted an Open House specifically for first-year students. This event showcased over ten different dance groups, each with their unique styles and talents. I was instantly captivated by the sheer variety and energy.
One group that immediately grabbed my attention was Excolatur Dance Crew, UChicago’s premier competitive hip-hop and urban dance team. Their infectious music and dynamic moves were mesmerizing. It was love at first sight, and I could already envision myself immersed in the world of hip-hop dance. Despite my lack of experience in the genre, I convinced some friends to join me for one of Ex Crew’s public weekend workshops. Dancers from the team taught segments of their self-choreographed routines. It was incredibly enjoyable, surpassing my expectations, and fueled my desire to try out for the team. The audition mirrored the workshop format but with significantly more people and a palpable sense of pressure. Although advertised as open to all skill levels, the talent in the room was undeniable, and unfortunately, I didn’t make the cut.
Alt text: Energetic performance by Excolatur Dance Crew, a hip-hop dance club at the University of Chicago, showcasing dynamic urban dance moves on a brightly lit stage.
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 a more accessible entry point for me than hip-hop. Yet, similar to my Ex Crew audition experience, I felt intimidated by the skill level, even though auditions were supposedly open to all. Again, I didn’t find a spot on the UC Dancers team, and my search continued. Leveraging my background in Chinese traditional dance, I explored Asian culture RSOs like the Chinese Undergraduate Students Association (CUSA) and Sensasia, hoping to find a dance opportunity within their annual cultural shows. I did join a team performing K-pop routines for the Korean Student Organization (KSO) showcase, but it didn’t quite resonate as the perfect fit or something I could fully commit to long-term.
Just as I was on the verge of giving up, one dance group’s positive and welcoming atmosphere lingered in my mind, prompting me to give dance another shot. At the beginning of Autumn Quarter, my Resident Assistant (RA), Tiffany, had encouraged several of us first-years to attend the “Ballroom Bootcamp” hosted by the Ballroom & Latin Dance Association (BLDA) in the International House theater. Ballroom dance was completely foreign to me, but the workshop proved to be surprisingly fun. I learned basic waltz and cha-cha steps with friends and even participated in a mock competition simulating the team’s real events. The event concluded with pizza and drinks while we watched impressive performances from dancers of all levels within BLDA. I was genuinely impressed by everyone’s passion and skill.
Alt text: Graceful Waltz performance by University of Chicago Ballroom and Latin Dance Association members in elegant ballroom attire during a collegiate dance competition, highlighting partnership and fluid movement.
When Winter Quarter arrived and BLDA advertised another workshop, I decided to attend again. It was smaller than the Bootcamp but equally enjoyable. I started attending their weekly lessons, which are free for newcomers during their first quarter. Even though my attendance was inconsistent due to not having a partner initially, the BLDA board remained incredibly welcoming and proactive in helping me integrate into the group and explore the various ballroom and Latin dance styles. Eventually, Carol, the competition manager, contacted me saying she had found me a partner and invited me to an upcoming competition at Valparaiso University.
The idea of competing was daunting, especially considering my limited two weeks of commitment. Even after meeting my partner, Andrew, who had slightly more experience, I doubted my ability to learn sixteen different ballroom and Latin dance styles in such a short time. But then I remembered, everyone starts somewhere.
The beauty of collegiate ballroom dance is the level-based system: Newcomer, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and so on. This structure alleviated my fear of looking completely out of place, as everyone at the Newcomer level was relatively at the same stage, with only a few weeks of extra practice. 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 escape from academic pressures for a weekend, and I’m incredibly grateful I decided to try ballroom dance despite my initial apprehension.
Alt text: Enthusiastic University of Chicago Ballroom Dance team members in formal attire, smiling and posing for a group photograph at a collegiate ballroom dance competition, showing camaraderie and team spirit.
Although BLDA had to temporarily suspend in-person activities, my enthusiasm for dance has only grown. I eagerly anticipate returning to the dance floor and making up for lost time with my BLDA family. I’ve truly found a community within BLDA and plan to continue dancing with them for the foreseeable future. For anyone curious about Dance Clubs In Chicago, especially at the University of Chicago, know that a vibrant and welcoming dance scene awaits, regardless of your experience level.
