Grand Valley Dance Troupe is looking forward to kicking off their 27th year on campus as a student group. Not only do they offer several styles of dance for different levels of experience, but the GVSU Dance Troupe also aims to give students a place to build connections and make lifelong friendships through the art of dance.
Grace Mahon, who currently serves as co-president for the student group stressed the importance of not only focusing just on dance but also making sure to build connections with other members.
“Our goal is to provide a fun and supportive dance experience to dancers of all backgrounds,” Mahon said. “While doing what we are passionate about, we build long-lasting friendships and memories for every member to cherish.”
Mahon highlights not just her experience growing as a dancer, but how she has grown as a person through her four years spent with Dance Troupe.
“As a person, I have gained a lot of leadership skills not only in teaching a class of dancers but also as being a part of e-board and running the behind the scenes of an organization,” Mahon said. “ I have been able to practice and prepare for the professional world through working as a team, with members and outside contacts to continue to strengthen our organization.”
Mahon said she has taken several different roles through her time in the organization, going from dancing to creating choreography, then from public relations representative to co-president. Mahon stresses how she has loved being a part of this organization in every role.
Another member of the e-board, Nicole Prybyla, serves as the current public relations representative. Prybyla has been a part of the group for three semesters and says the troupe has helped her to be more confident to face new experiences and expand her dance skills. Mahon’s experience echoes her fellow e-board member’s sentiment: “As a dancer, I have definitely gained more experience as you get to work with dancers who grew up at different studios learning different tricks and techniques to help grow as a dancer.”
Prybyla said her favorite experience since joining has been being able to perform onstage again.
“I’ve been dancing since I was 8 years old and I wasn’t sure if I was going to dance during college,” Prybyla said. “I’m so glad I’m able to continue my passion through Grand Valley Dance Troupe.”
Dance Troupe is looking forward to their end-of-semester recital taking place in December at Allendale High School. Throughout the semester, there are many other events for members to participate in. The Dance Troupe plans social events like movie and game nights throughout the year to offer space and time outside of rehearsal for the group members to get to know each other and build interpersonal relationships.
“My favorite experience is what we call ‘Spirit Week’ which is the week leading up to recital,” Mahon said. “We rehearse at Allendale High School every night and have different themes including ‘Sleepy Sunday’ or ‘Meme Monday’ to make each night more fun.”
Dancers of all styles and levels of experience are encouraged to get involved with the Grand Valley Dance Troupe. Multiple classes are available to students over the semester, of any dance level and interest. The group aims to give dancers an outlet to continue their passion for dance and meet new people at GVSU.
“Dance Troupe is a great opportunity to make friends and continue to do what you love,” Mahon said. “I would recommend attending our interest meeting as well as sign up for our e-mail list on our website.”
