By Preston Wittwer
Social dance classes were first offered in 1953 at BYU and have grown to become some of the most popular classes on campus. In fact, taking a dance class at BYU is considered a rite of passage for some. Whether involved in dancing or not, there is a chance this weekend to watch and learn from world-class dancers.
In the Wilkinson Center Ballroom Friday and Saturday, BYU’s Ballroom Dance Program presents the DanceSport Championships. Throughout the semi-annual two day event, spectators can watch preteen, junior, youth and adult levels of competition in what is considered one of the world’s most comprehensive studies of ballroom dancing in a university setting, according to news.byu.edu. The competition has been sanctioned by the National Dance Council of America, an official governing council of dance and dancesport in the USA.
Claudia Hill, a Dance Department faculty member, believes the event will be sure to please any ballroom dancing fan. The competition showcases a wide variety of skill levels, ages and types of dancing. Although it is a ballroom dance competition, there is variation in different styles of ballroom dancing, like Latin, traditional and contemporary, that will be performed.
“It’s best described like a reality TV competition,” Hill said. “We keep narrowing it down until the last competitor.”
The evening performances will feature the remaining competitors, which are usually the more experienced dancers and showcase dancers. According to Hill, staying to watch as much of the competition as possible is the best way to get the most out of the competition.
“People enjoy cheering someone on,” Hill said. “They can pick a favorite, cheer for them and hope they win.”
A general admission ticket for both days costs $20 and individual day tickets costs $11, with discounts available to students. Reserved seats and table side seats are available for a higher cost. Tickets can be purchased at the WSC Information desk or by phone at 801-422-4313.
