Dance Happening Has Sprung Again

The dance program at the University of Tampa will present Spring Dance Happening at the end of the semester. Auditions take place Saturday, February 27 at 10 a.m. and Sunday the 28th at 1 p.m. in the Edison building. Student choreographers will have three months to perfect the biannual show coming this April. Susan Lennon, head of the dance department, is excited for the performance. “Overall quality is going up,” she says, “and we have a lot of first-time choreographers.”
There are around twenty choreographers who choose a musical number that speaks to them. It is then expressed through student dancers. Pieces can be light and fun or more serious; all are extremely creative. Costumes are chosen and the dances are ordered in a visually pleasing format. The title “Happening” implies that the show travels, meaning audience members follow the performers to a new location. UT’s Dance Happening is two parts, beginning in Edison and finishing on the verandah of Plant Hall. Last semester Falk Theater was available for the first act but no longer is. Walking doesn’t bother spectators: “It’s a really fun atmosphere, it’s cool how it’s in two locations,” says sophomore Danielle Dougherty.
The dance program is full of friendly faces. Sophomore participant Brie Zupko calls auditions “the most laid-back” she’s ever seen. The style of the audition is more like a dance class, with stretching and exercises across the floor. Zupko has performed in three Dance Happenings since freshman year. “Having students choreograph is really unique and dynamic. All the ones I've worked with have made it a great experience for me,” she says. Many student choreographers return for semesters to come.
There is always a big turnout. Students and faculty cram into the Edison building and a crowd forms at the verandah for the second act. 2009’s Fall Dance Happening included UT’s dance team the Spartan Scarlets, most likely to perform in the spring as well. All styles of dance are addressed – there is something for everyone. Show tickets are free, but limited seating in Edison is offered on a first-come basis. The 2010 Dance Happening is April 28 through May 1 at 8 p.m.