Penn State’s student-run dance group “Urban Dance Troupe” held their first annual showcase in Schwab Auditorium. Featuring choreography based on artists like Michael Jackson, Drake and more, the showcase was just one of the many fascinating performances the group has created.
Who is UDT?
“Urban Dance Troupe” is a student-run organization that earned the spot as Penn State’s first hip-hop dance group after being established in Penn State Altoona. Around 2005, UDT was introduced at University Park, competing at a wide variety of campus events such as PRCC Annual Pep Rally, Homecoming Talent Show, THON and more.
Their first showcase was recently held at Schwab Auditorium on March 30th. With other exhibition acts performing like the “BLK Elites,” “Afrique Fusion” and “La Di Da,” the show demonstrated all of the talent that Penn State’s dance community had to offer.
A Note From The President
Stumbling upon a YouTube video of Urban Dance Troupe’s performance for “Penn State’s Best Dance Crew 2020,” Arianna Foto knew that this was the team for her. As a senior information systems and technology major, her position as UDT president gave her a lot of resilience within the team.
“Since it was our first showcase, I had no direction on what to do. I kind of just made it how I wanted it to be…and who knows? Next year could be different, it could be different the year after that. This first one was really just about being creative.”
Arianna Foto on her vision with the showcase
The showcase celebrated traditional hip-hop artists such as Drake, Destiny’s Child, Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake and more. With choreography from five members of the team, the audience was enraptured by the energy and fun UDT gave on stage.
One thing UDT prides themselves on: passion. A clear goal Foto had with their first showcase was demonstrating the creativity of the team. With five members choreographing lively and exciting dances (including herself), she felt very proud of the outcome.
More To Come
Amanda Nguyen, a junior nutritional sciences major, found community when she made the impulsive decision to attend an open class last fall. As a general member, she believes the UDT community is only growing stronger.
“The friends I made along the way. Meeting new people, making new friends; UDT gave me the opportunity to meet new people who shared my love for dance.”
Amanda Nguyen on her favorite part of UDT
The dance teams established at Penn State all offer different performances that could entertain everyone. “Urban Dance Troupe” is one of the many gifted, eye-catching groups to look out for on campus. The first annual showcase has grabbed UDT more attention than ever, and VALLEY is looking forward to seeing what else they have in store.
“Just seeing how happy it made everyone to have a full show for us. That passion really shined through in our performance.”
Arianna Foto
Check them out on Instagram @urbandancetroupe to stay updated on their performances!
