CEBASTIAN SPISAK
Special to The Leader
From dance styles to easier accessibility, this year, Fredonia’s multicultural dance team, EnFusion, is striving to introduce dance to the campus community in new ways. But, the group is facing one problem — they are facing the challenge of students being intimidated by choreography.
Students often can not shake off the anxiety of stepping into uncharted territories. However, EnFusion is helping individuals step out of their comfort zone into the realm of dance.
On Oct. 22, EnFusion’s third dance workshop of the semester took place in the Dods Hall’s dance studio. The high heel-themed class started with a warm-up to stretch and get attendees’ bodies moving, and was followed by a practice session walking around in heels.
Then, it was on to the choreography, which could be done with or without heels. To the tune of Kiana Ledé’s “Honest,” dancers began learning slow and sensual movements at their own pace. During events, from simplifying moves to slowing down choreography, EnFusion’s president, Iasha Babb, makes sure to accommodate everyone’s skill level and works with attendees step by step. EnFusion’s heels workshop provided a safe space for individuals with an interest in heel dancing to get a taste of what it is all about.
EnFusion is introducing many new dance styles and events to the campus community this year. Every eboard member has different signature styles and EnFusion wants to utilize every member’s unique background. Enfusion’s Freestyle Fridays feature a new dance style every time. The events provide a space for students to learn how to dance, to meet new people, listen to music and have a good time.
Babb said that one of the overall purposes of the Freestyle Fridays is to create a social dancing atmosphere at SUNY Fredonia.
“Students need a place to go in and just have fun, and somewhere to express themselves,” Babb said.
EnFusion is known for its hip-hop, afrobeat, dance hall and twerk dance styles. However, the group will bring voguing to campus on Nov. 13 during SUNY Fredonia’s Culture Fest. The campus community can show support for the group at the event.
EnFusion is creating space for individuals who have not received formal dance training. Students who have a passion for dancing can be part of the dance team as an intern. Babb said that interns have less responsibilities than other core members. As a result, interns can participate in as little as one dance during an event. This allows them to focus on perfecting one of the dance’s choreography and to not be burdened with a handful of them.
Overall, EnFusion’s main mission this year is to make dance as inclusive as it can possibly be. The campus community can dance with the group at their R&B Soul Night, on Nov. 11th, from 5 to 6 p.m. in room S222 of the Williams Center.