Choreographers Target Social Issues for UT’s Dance Happening Oct. 26–28

The University of Tampa will present its popular Dance Happening Oct. 26–28 featuring pieces that explore everything from current social issues to dancing for the pure joy of movement. All performances begin at 8 p.m. in Falk Theatre, located at 428 W. Kennedy Blvd.

Always a popular event on campus, the Dance Happening will feature popular music and more than 60 student dancers from all sectors of the University community. Students have crafted new choreography in styles including tap, hip hop, modern, lyrical and jazz.

While the Dance Happening always offers a smorgasbord of lighthearted entertainment, some choreographers are targeting specific social issues in their works. Junior Isabella Sicard’s dance, titled “Oppression,” relates to her personal experiences in student protests against oppression and corruption in her home country of Venezuela. Senior Savannah Porch focuses on girl empowerment in her piece and “finding the inner courage to go after what you desire regardless of what others say or society’s standards.” Junior Anna Trattner’s dance, titled “Alive,” explores issues related to mental health, specifically depression. According to Trattner, “Alive” is about “the internal struggle that many people face and the struggle that their loved ones feel while trying to help them overcome this obstacle.”

“The Dance Happening is simply one of the most unique and exciting performance events you’ll experience on a university campus,” said Susannah LeMarquand ’01, assistant professor of dance and director of the UT Dance Happening. “The range of work presented offers something for everyone!’

The Dance Happening is free and open to the public, but arrive early for the best seats. For more information, call (813) 257-3745.