Twenty-seven groups from different student organizations affiliated with the Multicultural Student Center performed a mix of step/walk, dance routines, and a cappella singing for new students looking to join student organizations, at MCOR Multicultural Student Performance Showcase event at Shannon Hall on September 8. Many groups perform traditional dances and share the long-standing traditions of their fraternities and sororities that many new students find appealing as they begin looking for an organization to join.
“As a way to share our cultural foundations with other students through the performance, I felt ecstatic,” said Adaobi Nnamuchi of the African Student Association dance team. “Through this performance, we were able to share a snippet of the vast cultural history and traditions within the Black/African diaspora. »
Members of the African Student Association, a multicultural student group that promotes the cultural and social awareness of African students on campus and encourages activities showcasing the cultural treasures of the African continent, perform.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
“Our performance included many African cultural dances, ranging from traditional Nigerian dances of the Igbo tribe to traditional South African movements,” said Adaobi Nnamuchi of the African Students Association. “However, the main element of our routine is a dynamic exhibition of West African dance traditions which beautifully complements the sounds of Davido on ‘Na Money’.”
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
Wisconsin Surma presents itself as a competitive Bollywood fusion dance team.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
“The meaning of this organization goes far beyond a typical dance team. It’s about being a family brought together through a shared love of dance,” said Ravi Jain of Wisconsin Surma. “The bond we formed with each other shines through clearly after the dedication, countless hours and courage we put into preparing for today’s performance.”
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
The performance by members of the Enticing Eta Iota chapter of Zeta Phi Beta was both a stage and a stroll. Step emphasizes steps, while walking is usually done in a line, representing power and unification.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
“It means a lot to us to be able to share this with the school because it’s an opportunity for us to continue a legacy of sharing black culture,” said Mara Allen, a member of Zeta Phi Beta. “Stepping in particular comes from African traditions and with each performance we are able to incorporate our own modern influences.”
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
A packed audience watches members of Alpha Phi Alpha, the first African-American intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity, perform.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
The Fuego Dance Crew features students across campus who are passionate about Latin American dance.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
The Vietnamese Student Association dance team takes the stage. “Our goal is to connect, network and unite those of Vietnamese descent as well as those interested in Vietnamese culture,” the VSA mission statement says.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
Members of the Wisconsin School of Bhangra perform. Bhangra is a traditional and upbeat folk dance from North India, celebrating the culture and heritage of the state of Punjab.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
Members of the public laugh after receiving a shirt during the raffle at MCOR.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
Members of UNIT.E Dance Team, a dance team that celebrates dance styles around the world and recognizes their cultural significance, perform.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
A member of Alpha Kappa Delta Phi, an Asian-interest sorority, jumps during a performance.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
The South East Asian Dance Organization (SEADO) aims to educate the Madison campus and community about Southeast Asian cultures through dance.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
Members of Saaz, a student organization that performs various forms of Indian music, take the stage.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
Student leaders from the Multicultural Student Center gather for a group photo with Bucky Badger at MCOR.
Photo by: Taylor Wolfram
