Clark University has no shortage of talented students who fill its classrooms, laboratories, recreation rooms, and athletic fields. But it also has a great deal of talent on the stage, whether as part of a theatre production or a dance show.
As the new semester begins, this article reflects back on one such brilliant performance. This performance was choreographed by sophomore Frankie Roberts on behalf of Variant Dance Troupe. The dance was part of the group’s “Peace, Love, and Rock ‘N Roll” showcase, which took place last semester in collaboration with Clark Dance Society.
In an interview with The Scarlet over email, Roberts explained how Variant Dance Troupe is the only non-audition dance group on campus. According to the group’s Clark Engage page, their mission is to “work to make sure that dance is accessible and enjoyable for anyone at Clark looking to participate.”
Roberts stated that they joined Variant as a way to continue an already storied dance career from ages four to sixteen when they were back in their home state of Maine. Variant “helped me revive my love for dance,” says Roberts, “and it’s such a welcoming and fun group to be a part of.”
They explained that in Variant, anyone can choreograph a small group routine, stating, “I had thought about choreographing last year but never did, and this year I finally decided to and got help from my amazing co-choreographer, Audrey Roller.”
They continued, “She taught me how to approach being a co-choreographer; you basically just find a space to play some music and let your body move until you get some inspiration!”
Roberts went on to say of the joys of choreographing, “During our rehearsals, Audrey and I were always on the same page and bouncing ideas off of each other,” it helped that we are both tap dancers of many years.”
Roberts chose to choreograph their dance to “Sleeping on the Blacktop” by Colter Wall. They explained this “was an ode to growing up on class country music but putting my own twist by choosing a more modern, folk-country song.”
Speaking of their experience as a first-time choreographer, Roberts stated, “I learned a lot from being a first-time choreographer. It’s not as daunting as I thought it’d be. My group was only six people, and they were fantastic learners who really brought Audrey and I’s vision to life.”
Roberts finished by saying, “I will definitely choreograph again this semester, alone this time and trying my hand at a lyrical-contemporary piece with some elements of ballet tied into it. I’m really looking forward to not only choreographing again but staying a part of this club for more years to follow!”
If you are interested in Variant Dance Troupe, follow the club’s Instagram page @variantdancetroupe or visit the group’s page on Clark Engage to learn more.
