West African Dance Performance

In my final semester of college, I participated in my first formal dance performance since middle school. My friend Brooke told me about the opportunity and encouraged me to audition. I had always associated the Barnard/Columbia Dance Showcase with people who had danced since they were young, those who self-identified as dancers. So I thought of reasons not to—6 hours of rehearsal a week would be too much, I might get bored if I danced the same style 4 times a week. But I knew this was my last semester, that I wanted to end it with something meaningful, and that I’d regret it if I didn’t try.

It was an honor being part of Maguette’s piece and the Barnard/Columbia Dance Showcase. I indulged in every moment—the audition, sweaty rehearsals, tech week logistics, pre-show nerves, the actual performance, post-show reception by friends and family. I learned so much from Maguette and my friends, and I’ve never felt so physically strong in my life. I will continue West African Dance in Denver 😊