Dancers stepping on toes for space
Melissa Shube
Issue date: 3/18/08 Section: Campus News
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"There's a lot of memories and performances in there and it's hard to give it up," said Ashley Kim '11, a member of the eclectic dance group. "Its been a great place to practice in, and to hold shows in, and it's hard to think of not being in there anymore."
Associate Professor of Theatre, Speech and Dance Rebecca Schneider, chair of the department, wrote in an e-mail that the department needed the space for its own programs.
"We are committed to supporting the extra-curricular dance program when it does not interfere with faculty and student needs in the Department," Schneider wrote.
Fusion will still be able to use Ashamu for rehearsal space if the department is not using it, but the time in which Fusion has held their performances in the past will no longer be available for the group's use, said Christina Boursiquot '08, co-director of Fusion and director of Body and Sole, an umbrella organization that governs dance groups and independent dancers. Body and Sole also liaises between the Theatre, Speech and Dance department and student groups.
Schneider added that "the issue of space for students has not changed for any students EXCEPT for Fusion, and then not in terms of rehearsal space. This group is now on the same footing with other student groups."But student groups said it is often a struggle for them to find a place to practice and perform.
"At the moment there is a major lack of space," Boursiquot said.
Annie Rose London '11, an Amira bellydancer, said she tried to organize a dance workshop but had trouble finding a space to use. Luckily, she said, Ashamu was available.
"We certainly hear that students are looking for space beyond what is currently available," said Ricky Gresh, director of student activities. "The reality is that there continues to be student organizations recognized, and we don't have available facilities," he said. "Just because UCS recognizes another group doesn't mean a new building pops up."