Walking past the Student Union classrooms, previously one would see a room of desks, chairs, carpet and neutral-toned walls. Now, the space has been transformed into a large dance room with proper flooring and mirrors for Concordia’s dance students. 

Securing a legit dance room at Concordia had been a  challenge as classes had previously been held in a small room in the back of the CU Center, and before then, the Performing Arts Annex. 

Now, the new flooring and equipment in the Student Union is ready to enhance dance at Concordia for all students. 

“Providing a new dance room, floor and equipment at Concordia, has enhanced the overall experience of dance classes immensely… Students heavily involved with dance will absolutely say how beneficial it is to have these upgrades and hopefully, the beginning of a dance minor program will lead to future enhancements as well,” said sophomore Ashyln Davis. Davis, a Psychology major and Musical Theater minor, has enjoyed many of the one-unit dance class offerings. 

Taught by Professor Autumn Mortenson, Concordia’s dance classes range from the three-unit general elective Dance for Health class, to ballet and hip hop offered once a week alongside other special offerings such as modern, tap and jazz. 

For senior Isabella Mangahis, dance classes were a new experience coming into college. “Before I came to Concordia, I had no dance experience, but this is my third year of taking classes… Dancing has been one of the best blessings for me as a student here. I have always found beauty in dance but never had the courage or the time to fit it in my schedule,” said Mangahis. 

As excitement for dance continues to grow at Concordia, the new dance room is a meaningful facility as creates a safe space for students to progress in their love of dance. For a member of the newly created dance club, Giselle Parra, investing in proper dance equipment is pivotal to a student's success and is necessary to prevent injuries. “It is important to ensure the safety of students as they use this outlet for creative expression… Doing things such as turns and tap dance require a proper floor, same as tennis and basketball needing proper space,” said Parra. 

Concordia allows students to fulfill their passion for dance while still being able to pursue academic disciplines for students in dance classes and the dance club. “I wanted to dance professionally, but I made the choice for my proper education to come first. The thought that choosing academics would mean that I may have to stop dancing was heartbreaking. I am so thankful that Concordia provides me with opportunities to still dance,” said Parra.

While the dance classes are listed under the Theatre and Film Department, they are open for students of any major or dance experience. By taking a dance class, students can gain the ability to express themselves creatively but also enjoy its benefits to one's physical, mental and spiritual well being. 

“Feel free to reach out to Professor Autumn Mortenson, the dance teacher here at Concordia. She is an excellent and challenging teacher who wants to help you grow. Come take a class! They are a fun and great way to exercise and you never need to be self-conscious about whether you have experience or not. Dance has helped me develop in many aspects of my health and I hope it does for all interested students too,” said Mangahis. 

Tags: dance

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