DeKALB — The NIU Burlesque Dance Team discussed burlesque and its benefits as they prepare for their upcoming showcase at 4:30 on April 25 in the Carl Sandburg Auditorium.
Founded in the spring of 2023, the team has been promoting confidence and burlesque through on-campus heel dance performances for three years.
Kayla Martin, president of the team, head choreographer and fourth-year psychology major, explained that burlesque is a theatrical dance style and does not always have to be taken seriously, as burlesque performances are often humorous.
“Burlesque is a very theatrical and comedic style of dance, and it can be taken seriously and also not taken seriously,” Martin said. “We dance in heels and try to incorporate every type of dance style. We have jazz, ballet, musical theater, especially.”
Martin mentioned two routines the organization has done, involving songs like “Runaway Baby” by Bruno Mars and “Woman” by Doja Cat. Both performances were quite different, with the former a comedic routine and the latter being focused on womanly sensuality.
A favorite routine of Martin’s that she has choreographed involves members wearing high heels, utilizing prop canes and dancing to “All That Jazz” from the musical “Chicago.”
Ash Lehning, vice president, assistant choreographer and sophomore history major, expressed that the members’ creativity and connection with one another are why she enjoys being part of the organization.
“I think we’re pretty creative with what we do,” Lehning said. “Our dancing is a different style of dance from some of the other organizations (on campus). My favorite aspect of this club is hanging out with these lovely people.”
Jacob Feryance, a first-year psychology major, is the newest member of the dance team and has had many positive experiences since joining this semester.
“It’s been good exercise,” Feryance said. “I’m learning how to dance, and it’s just good fun.”
During the drag show hosted by the campus activities board (CAB) from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday in the Holmes Student Center, Duke Ellington Ballroom, the dance team will perform during the intermission.
They will also host open rehearsals from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on April 14 and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on April 17 in the Holmes Student Center, Room 305.
Anyone interested in learning more about NIU Burlesque Dance Team can check out their Instagram for updates about auditions and performances.