Finding Freedom in Movement
Written by Nova Brown
For many dancers, the art of movement is not just a performance, it can be a way to express themselves in a way that words cannot. For Arlena Michaud, dance has been a lifelong outlet for creativity and community. After starting dance at just 3 years old, she has spent nearly 2 decades exploring the world of dance. “I’ve always enjoyed the way dance lets me express myself,” she shared. “It’s a great mix of staying active and being artistic…it’s the perfect balance for me.” Without dance, she and many other creative thinkers felt isolated, which is why her and other dancers like her joined the dance ensemble.
The USJ Dance Ensemble typically showcases pieces rooted in contemporary, modern, and jazz styles. While lyrical type dances aren’t always shown and performed, last fall semester’s 5×5 performance introduced a lyrical program that will make a dashing return in the upcoming spring show. Besides student choreographers, some outside artists like Megan McDermott for the 5×5 piece, Garrett of Garrett and Company for a modern/contemporary number, and hip-hop specialist Brandon, also known as B-Boy Electric. The student lead pieces include an energetic piece known as “Cell Block Tango”. Arlena’s piece, which she single-handedly choreographed, leaned toward the lyrical-contemporary style, blending fluid movement with symbolic storytelling. “I wanted it to feel more like an art piece than just a dance. It’s set in a dystopian-like society, where people are oppressed but support each other to survive. It’s about connection and resilience.”
The Spring Dance Show, happening Friday, April 25 at 7:00 p.m. in Hoffman Auditorium, the USJ Dance Ensemble will be performing their pieces, alongside outside companies, giving the public a diverse dynamic of art. Tickets are available online through the Hoffman Auditorium. USJ students can attend for free with their student ID. For others interested, ticket pricing is posted on the USJ website. Follow the @usjdanceensemble on Instagram for updates!
Photographs by @usjdanceensemble on Instagram
