Smooth beats and meaningful lyrics blasted out of the Rec Center’s multi-purpose room Saturday as some of the University’s women auditioned for the Martin Luther King Jr. Dance Ensemble.
The ensemble, which first took the stage in 1992, now is one of the most important aspects of the MLK celebration.
“[The ensemble] is a way to express Dr. King’s message through dance,” said Chaunda Allen, the dance ensemble’s adviser. “His themes like peace, non-violence and social justice are even more inspirational and uplifting when they are seen through classically trained dancers.”
Both men and women were allowed to try out, but only 21 women auditioned.
Those women had to perform a three-minute solo dance routine and also had to learn a group dance during the audition.
“It’s a lot of work,” said Kodi Collins, a biological engineering sophomore. “When you are asked to be a part of this ensemble, you are a part of it for a year.”
Collins thinks the hard work definitely pays off.
“It is really rewarding to be able to define Dr. King’s message through dance,” she said. “You become his words, his thoughts and his actions. It’s really beautiful.”
The ensemble performs at four or five events during the year, such as Harambée and the graduation robing ceremony.
“It’s a positive experience for everyone,” said Brandi St. Julien, a criminology senior who has been a member of the ensemble since 1999. “It adds flavor to the whole celebration.”