LSU has a new dance group on campus, and they call themselves the “Fierce Felines of Rhythm and Roar.”
The new group’s goal is to build a sanctuary where young women can dance, improve their craft and build friendships in the process.
Dance, as a form of expression, has been around for centuries. From telling stories to conveying emotions, the practice of moving to music is an outlet for many. So it is for the Fierce Felines.
“We really wanted to dance and be in a space where everyone can express themselves with no judgment,” said Vice-President and kinesiology sophomore Amiya Spears.
Visibility and inclusivity are also key to the group.
“Rhythm and Roar, from day one, has been on a mission to be seen and heard,” Spears said. “We are women who want to uplift people on our team. No matter the title, we are equal. Rhythm and Roar made a space for us to be.”
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The team consists of coastal and environmental science senior Ottilie Wilcox, who serves as the president, Spears, who serves as the vice-president, as well as biological engineering senior Mikayla Powell and psychology junior Dallas Sherod who both hold the title of secretary.
Each of them has their own unique reason for dancing.
“I enjoy dancing because it gives me a way to express myself in other ways that aren’t available at the time,” Sherod said. “The free movement of the body is something you can’t get anywhere else. It’s just a way to physically show your emotion and passion, not just through words.”
The Fierce Felines draw from many inspirations that guide their routines. Hip-hop music and historically Black university dance teams are two sources.
Black dance groups aren’t common at predominantly white institutions, and the Felines are well aware of that. In fact, they embrace the challenge head-on by participating in performances throughout campus and tabling at events to raise awareness around their existence and purpose.
“We are striving to leave a legacy like those teams by bringing this form of dance that celebrates Black culture to LSU,” Spears said.
Beyond dancing, the troupe strives to spread awareness about mental health. At the events where they table and on Instagram, the Felines offer information about suicide prevention and signs of depression.
“Some people have so much going on they forget to take care of the most important part of themselves, which is their mind,” Spears said. “We hope to reach people by sharing information and resources so that people understand the importance of taking care of their mental well-being.”
The group performed at Fall Fest Friday.
The Fierce Felines of Rhythm and Roar stand by their booth at the Involvement Fest hosted by Campus Life on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, on Azalea Hall Lawn on LSU campus in Baton Rouge, La.
