BIPOC and Alpha Phi Alpha facilitate Hip-Hop Master Class

Over 20 students gathered in the multi-purpose room in the Recreational Center to learn hip-hop dancing and get some exercise.

The event was sponsored by BIPOC (Black Indigenous Performers of Color) and the Xi Gamma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. with the intent to encourage physical activity among students.

Senior BFA dance major, President of BIPOC, and dance instructor for the master class, Tori Wyatt, said the purpose of the class is just to have fun and a good way to start Black History Month.

“If this is somebody’s first dance class I just want them to leave feeling confident and learn something new, and even if you didn't, hopefully they had fun and did something different,” Wyatt said. ‘It’s the first day of Black History Month, so we wanted to kick it off with good vibes and energy.”

In the hip-hop class, students were able to learn new techniques dance combos and get involved.

Senior Social Work major Caleb Gray claimed it was an exciting experience for students on campus and allowed them to create friendships among their peers.

“We’re going to have a good time and bond over the love of performing,” Gray said.

While students were encouraged to participate in the master class, they also had the option to watch and support their friends.

Freshman Psychology major Mackenzie Brown claimed she doesn’t dance much. However, she wanted to support her friends who did attend the class.

“If you feel comfortable and think you are a good learner, you should go for it.” Brown said. “It’s more about community and expressing yourself. You don’t have to dance right or dance the best, you just have to have fun.”

Dance instructor Wyatt claimed BIPOC is currently working with Dance Dynasty to coordinate a similar event in the near future.