When you think of the University of Chicago, dance might not be the first thing that springs to mind. Renowned for its rigorous academics, particularly in economics, and its stunning Gothic architecture, UChicago also harbors a dynamic and passionate dance community. For students seeking to balance intellectual pursuits with artistic expression, or for seasoned dancers looking to continue their passion, the university offers a wealth of opportunities through its diverse Dance Dance Clubs.
Like many students arriving at UChicago, I initially wondered if I could pursue my burgeoning interest in dance alongside my studies. My prior dance experience was limited to casual involvement in a high school Chinese traditional dance club. However, my concerns were quickly dispelled upon discovering the thriving dance culture on campus.
My introduction to the UChicago dance scene came during the Autumn Quarter’s Registered Student Organization (RSO) fair, a massive event showcasing the incredible range of extracurricular activities available. It seemed there was a club for every conceivable interest! Shortly after, the UChicago Dance Council hosted an Open House specifically for first-year students. This event was a revelation, featuring over ten different dance groups and highlighting the sheer variety and talent within the university’s dance dance clubs. I was instantly captivated.
One group that immediately caught my attention was Excolatur Dance Crew, a competitive hip-hop and urban dance team. Their energy, music, and impressive choreography were mesmerizing. Despite lacking any formal hip-hop training, I was inspired to attend one of their public weekend workshops. These workshops offered a taste of their self-choreographed routines and were incredibly engaging and fun. Emboldened, I decided to audition for Ex Crew. The audition, mirroring the workshop format, was intense and filled with talented dancers. Although the auditions were advertised as open to all skill levels, the high level of expertise was evident, and unfortunately, I didn’t make the team.
Undeterred, I explored UC Dancers, the university’s oldest dance company, focusing on modern and contemporary styles. I believed these styles might be more accessible to me than hip-hop. However, similar to my Ex Crew experience, the UC Dancers audition proved to be intimidating. Despite being open to all levels, the skill level was high, and I didn’t find a place on their team either. My search continued. Drawing on my past experience with Chinese traditional dance, I considered Asian cultural RSOs like the Chinese Undergraduate Students Association (CUSA) and Sensasia, hoping to participate in dance within their cultural shows. I even joined a K-pop dance team for a Korean Student Organization (KSO) showcase. While enjoyable, none of these felt like the perfect fit or a long-term commitment.
Just as I was on the verge of giving up, I recalled a dance group that had made a distinctly positive impression: the Ballroom & Latin Dance Association (BLDA). Early in Autumn Quarter, my Resident Assistant had encouraged us to attend BLDA’s “Ballroom Bootcamp.” Held in the International House theater, this workshop introduced me to the basics of waltz and cha-cha. Despite my complete lack of ballroom experience, the Bootcamp was surprisingly fun. We learned steps with friends and even participated in a mock competition, simulating real team events. The event concluded with pizza, drinks, and captivating performances from BLDA dancers of all levels, showcasing the team’s welcoming and encouraging atmosphere.
When Winter Quarter arrived, I saw BLDA was hosting another workshop. I decided to attend, and it was just as enjoyable as the Bootcamp, albeit smaller. I began attending their weekly lessons, which are free for newcomers in their first quarter. Although my attendance was sporadic due to academic pressures and not having a partner, the BLDA board remained consistently welcoming and supportive, helping me navigate the various ballroom and Latin dance styles. Then, Carol, the competition manager, contacted me with exciting news: she had found me a partner and invited me to compete at Valparaiso University.
The idea of competition was daunting, especially with only two weeks of consistent practice. Even after meeting my partner, Andrew, who had slightly more experience, I was uncertain if I could master sixteen different ballroom and Latin dance styles in such a short time. However, I realized that everyone starts somewhere.
Collegiate ballroom dance is structured by skill levels: Newcomer, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and so on. This leveling system immediately eased my anxieties. I wouldn’t be completely out of place, as everyone in the Newcomer level was at a similar stage, with just a few weeks more training than me. The competition weekend was a fantastic experience. The three-hour carpool with teammates, a pre-competition “hair party,” last-minute practice sessions, and a team dinner fostered a strong sense of camaraderie. It was a wonderful escape from academic stress, and I was incredibly grateful I had decided to try ballroom dance, despite my initial hesitation.
While recent events have temporarily shifted BLDA away from in-person activities, my passion for dance has only intensified. I eagerly anticipate returning to the dance floor and reconnecting with my BLDA family. Joining a dance dance club at the University of Chicago has not only enriched my university experience but has also provided a supportive community and a joyful outlet for creative expression. For anyone considering exploring dance at UChicago, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into the vibrant dance dance club scene – you might just find your perfect fit and a welcoming community like I did.
