THON 2016: Line Dance Reactions

It’s Friday, the first day of THON 2016, approximately 7:15 p.m, and the annual line dance just ended. There isn’t a sole dancer without a smile on their face — a great sign. The line dance is an important staple of the Penn State Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon and a familiar routine for veteran THONer’s.

Back in September the Dancer Relations Captains began choreographing the dance that not only helps keep the dancers busy, but also stretched out and feeling good.

Juli Chidester, a Dancer Relations Captain, explains, “Sometimes people forget to stretch and it’s up to us and our dance to keep them limber and feeling good for the 46 hours.”

“I’m a big fan,” says dancer Garret Field of his first run through the routine. “Best one since my freshman year.”

Another important aspect of a successful line dance is it’s ability to be easily followed. “When it’s all said and done, I could easily teach someone this dance,” says Field.

However, not all dancers pick up the dance as fast as others. “I’m an awful dancer so from 1 to 10 on the easy scale, this dance was probably a 3 for me but I think for everyone else it would be a 7,” dancer Connor Bortz admits.

As is true of line dances past, dancers were sure to have their own favorite move from the routine. “Honestly I’m a fan of the dab move, everyone in the crowd was cheering… I like that one,” says Jack Covert.

For Rachele Mash, her favorite part was when the dance incorporated the past year’s themes into one. She adds, “There were a ton of upbeat moves that will keep us inspired and just happy to be here.”