A return to dance: Dance Collective bounces back for spring 2021 show
Dance Collective practice pre-COVID.

A return to dance: Dance Collective bounces back for spring 2021 show

New College is home to some of the most unique and freeing extracurriculars out there. One of the most popular is Dance Collective, an entirely student-run organization that encourages amateur dancers and choreographers to work together to put on performances to combine creativity, socialization and exercise. Fourth year student Agnes Bartha is current co-admin of the club and has participated in it for three years. 

“I think Dance Collective is a really beneficial club for students because it’s a very chill environment and it provides people an outlet to meet people and relax,” Bartha explained. “It’s more about having fun than putting on a really professional production.”

Similarly to other clubs on campus, meetings were abruptly halted by the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March of 2020. The club was not able to put on their spring semester production and the fall semester did not bring about much change; although this year’s spring semester seemingly will. 

“This semester we decided to start the club back up again, in safe ways,” Bartha stated. “We’re allowing for practices outside, making sure everyone is wearing a mask and capping dances at 6 people, including the choreographer.”

These practices will culminate in Dance Collective’s first show in over a year. 

“We’re planning on having our spring show on May 7 and 8, outside on Z Green,” Bartha noted. “We’re hoping to set up a 270-degree stage on the grass, so people can come out and lay on blankets and have a good view from anywhere on the green.”

Masks will be required at the event and social distancing will be enforced. Audiences can expect to see between  eight to eleven dances, spanning various musical and dance styles. The crew behind the production hopes audiences will enjoy it and be inspired to join the club. 

“I’m worried that future classes won’t be super involved in clubs like Dance Collective, but I think they should,” Bartha commented. “Clubs are a big part of going to New College, and they can really provide a great way to unwind. We’re excited to be continuing the legacy of Dance Collective.” 

The Dance Collective’s spring show will take place on Friday and Saturday, May 7 and 8 respectively, at 8 PM. Practices begin the week of March 30. Contact agnes.bartha17@ncf.edu if interested in joining the club.  

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