When we talk about dance, it’s easy to fixate on the artistry—the fluidity of movement, the synchronization, the emotional storytelling. But what often goes underappreciated is the profound sense of community that dance fosters. At Utah State University, the Dance Company isn’t just a performance group—it’s a living, breathing hub of connection, support, and shared passion.
I recently came across an article in *The Utah Statesman* highlighting the incredible work USU’s Dance Company is doing to build and sustain community, and it got me thinking: what is it about dance that makes it such a powerful tool for bringing people together?
#### It Starts with Inclusivity
One of the standout themes from the piece is how inclusive the USU Dance Company is. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned dancer or someone who’s never taken a class in their life—there’s a place for you. This openness is key. By breaking down barriers to entry, the company creates a space where students from all backgrounds can come together, learn from one another, and grow not just as dancers, but as people.
#### Collaboration Over Competition
In a world that often feels hyper-competitive, the Dance Company flips the script. Instead of pitting dancers against each other, the focus is on collaboration. Choreography becomes a team effort. Rehearsals turn into bonding sessions. Dancers aren’t just executing moves; they’re building trust, communicating non-verbally, and supporting each other through challenges. That kind of environment doesn’t just produce great art—it produces lasting friendships.
#### Performance as a Unifying Experience
There’s something magical about performing together. The shared nerves backstage, the collective deep breath before the music starts, the rush of applause—it’s a unifying experience that forges deep connections. The article mentions how performances at USU often feel like celebrations of the entire community, not just the dancers on stage. Audience members become part of the experience, too, sharing in the emotion and energy of the moment.
#### Beyond the Studio
The impact of the Dance Company doesn’t end when the music stops. Dancers carry the sense of community they’ve built into other aspects of their lives. They become advocates for the arts, leaders in student organizations, and supportive peers in academic settings. The bonds formed in the studio translate into a stronger, more connected campus culture.
#### Why This Matters
In an age where screen time often outweighs face-to-face interaction, spaces like the USU Dance Company are more important than ever. They remind us of the power of physical presence, of moving together, of creating something beautiful as a collective. Dance, at its core, is about human connection—and that’s something we could all use more of.
So here’s to the dancers, the choreographers, the teachers, and the audiences who make groups like USU’s Dance Company thrive. They’re not just creating art; they’re building a community, one step at a time.
What do you think? Have you ever been part of a group that made you feel this connected? Share your thoughts below!
