The Journal

Issue date: 10/5/06 Section: LifeStyle

Media Credit: Max Gersh Freshman Vince Chewning closely watches the feet of people more familiar with the dances Sept. 30 in the UC Sunnen Lounge as part of the International Dance Team's open house.

Students attending the International Dance Team's open house got their first glimpse into the world of cultural dances complete with authentic food from Europe.

IDT hosted their first event of the year, Sept. 30 in the University Center Sunnen Lounge. About 30 people showed, including professional dancers, team members and students.

Students had the chance to learn traditional dances from professional dancers. The dancers wore traditional clothing such as black shorts, white shirts and knee-high socks. Vincent Chewning, an undecided freshman, and Joy Singharath, a sophomore history major, came to the Sunnen Lounge that day to learn about international dances. Chewning said he came along because it seemed interesting. Singharath said she came to dance.

"It's fun and easy," Singharath said.

Both said they don't usually participate in clubs or activities on campus, but were drawn to IDT's cultural theme. Singharath's is Laotian and said she might want share her cultural knowledge with IDT.

Chewning said he expected more international dance demonstrations at the open house, but understood those will come as the year progresses.

IDT Head Coach Linsey Daman is a sophomore French major. Daman said beginners are welcome and someone does not have to be a dance major to join. One dance that students learned at the open house consisted of snaking back and forth through the room.

"See, they learned this just now while they were here," Daman said.
Danceline

The men's and women's basketball game halftimes would be but mere opportunities to get soda and candy if it wasn't for Danceline. Danceline can be seen entertaining Gorlok fans with their jazz and hip-hop routines during the break.

Junior broadcast journalism major Elizabeth Eisele is program manager and a dancer for Danceline. Eisele said Danceline practices about five hours per week with the main practice on Sunday nights. They also meet one to two hours before game time to practice their routine.

Eisele said Danceline is joining forces with Campus Activities and the Student Activities Advisory Board to plan tailgate parties. The first tailgate party will be for the volleyball game Oct. 31. Eisele said this tailgate is a test run to see how well it is received. If it goes well, Eisele said they would decide whether to host tailgate parties for other sports.

Continued...

Page 1 of 2 next >

Article Tools