“Dancing through life” may be the best way to get through it all. The Junior Dance Choreography Showcase is a yearly event that allows advanced dance students the chance to choreograph unique dance pieces to be performed in Johnson Theatre. This year two students have choreographed original pieces with compelling themes.
Katelyn Haney is a dance performance major with a minor in coaching. She has been dancing since she was 12. She has choreographed works for Kinetic Fever, Winthrop’s Hip Hop club and she also currently choreographs for Fairfield Central High School’s competitive dance team.
Haney has choreographed a touching piece that has a special connection to her. “My piece is about my little sister and the self esteem issues she has gone through,” Haney said, “This piece is really special because I know we as women tend to get down on ourselves.” Haney hopes to use her piece to share an important message with others. “One thing I have learned through my experience with my sister is that we all need someone in our corner to help us learn how to smile again,” Haney explained.
Haney has big plans for life after graduation. “After college, I plan to travel around the U.S. and audition for different companies,” Haney stated, “After I would like to become a dance physical therapist.”
Christal Ross is also a junior dance performance major who minors in coaching. Ross has choreographed recital pieces in the past but this is her first time choreographing for the Winthrop Dance Department.
“My piece is intitled “Faux” and it is intended to bring light to the idea that everyone is struggling with something but most people would never know,” Ross said, “A picture isn’t always what it seems.”
After college Ross plans to combine her love of traveling and performing and become a cruise line performer. She would also like to pursue her career as a background dancer for some of her favorite artists.
The Student Choreography Showcase will be held in Johnson Theatre April 17 and 18 at 8 pm. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office and are only $5 with a Winthrop ID.
