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St. Cloud State University
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Diversions
SCSU adds dance class
By Ryan Buckmiller
Published:
Thursday, April 8, 2004
A new course will join SCSU and the St. Cloud community in June. Chuck Davis and the African-American Dance Ensemble will teach "African Rituals, Rites and Rhythm."
Davis is the founder and artistic director of the African-American Dance Ensemble.
"He is the foremost teacher and choreographer of traditional African dance in America," said SCSU Dance Program Director Debra Leigh.
Davis will be accompanied by 10 dancers, teachers, choreographers and master musicians from the African-American Dance Ensemble of South Carolina.
Leigh said the month long dance training program will not be like normal dance classes held at SCSU. The staff is planning on having those who participate learn much more than just new dancing techniques.
Leigh said that the African-American Dance Ensemble considers itself to be more than a dancing troupe. Drama, entertainment, expert choreography and colorful costumes all help illustrate a truly artistic experience.
"African dance contains the origin of all movement. Historians say there are no new movements, only recycled movements. African dance teaches rhythm, grace, style and most important, life," Leigh said. "Each movement reflects everyday life in various forms. Knowing and understanding the meaning of movement is a great part of what African dance is about. Participants in this workshop will learn a wealth about African tradition."
This program is also meant to enrich and educate participants and audiences on the region's rich cultural heritage by not only teaching traditional African dance techniques, but also jazz and modern dancing styles in addition to musical skills. Participants will also receive a greater understanding of African traditions.
"One of the greatest strengths of Davis is the positive social change the community will experience and his bringing people together. He has been labeled a serial hugger -his warmth, passion for his work, energy and knowledge is contagious," Leigh said. "These goals tie directly into the goals of the Summer Dance Institute goals to provide a wealth of diverse cultural and performing opportunities to our students and the community."
Peace, love and respect for everybody is the motto that the African-American Dance Ensemble wishes to spread with their work. Through teaching and performing their art, they hope to be a voice for positive social change while promoting the ideas of peace, love and respect.
"I think it's good that there is an African dance program over the summer. It won't be just dancing," said junior Kong Moua. "Teaching students about this will bring more diversity and make people more aware of African culture."
"The goal is to provide a wealth of diverse cultural and performing opportunities to our students and the community. The Summer Dance Institute is open to beginners to advanced individuals ages 16 and older. No prior dance experience is necessary for participation. Both male and female students are encouraged to apply. You don't have to be an SCSU student to participate," Leigh said.
The SCSU Summer Dance Institute, which will be offering training in African dance, will run in three concurrent classes beginning June 7. For more information, contact the SCSU Center for Continuing Studies.
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