The Hamilton College Dance Team, currently composed of 15 members, performs in contemporary and jazz styles at sporting events and at the Students Dance Alliance (SDA) Fall and Spring Student Choreography Show.
The Dance Team provides a supportive space to learn, practice and perform dance in a group setting regardless of whether members have extensive or limited dance experience before arriving at Hamilton. For some members, Dance Team is their first time encountering contemporary and jazz styles of dance. Erin Delaney ’26 notes that before joining Dance Team she “had really only done ballet before.” Delaney found the unfamiliar environment rewarding, asserting, “It is fun to dance with girls from all different dance backgrounds and learn different styles of dance.” The establishment of a collaborative space is fostered by long-standing team traditions. Captain Kelly McElroy ’24 reveals that “every year, we have one group timeout which the team collaborates on together.” This tradition allows all members the opportunity to practice choreographing and display their individual talent.
Dance Team members express love of their own art form while simultaneously supporting Hamilton’s football and basketball teams. Captain Sophie Antone ’24 notes that “performing at sporting events is really exciting and a cool way to incorporate what we do into the Hamilton community.” The Dance Team’s commitment to performing was displayed during this year’s Family Weekend when they decided to dance in the rain. As McElroy ’24 puts it, “The show must go on!” On Saturday, Nov. 4, as the last home football game of the season commenced, the Dance Team excitedly awaited their final performance of their 2023 halftime dance, choreographed by captains Antone ’24 and McElroy ’24. Before taking the field, the dancers stood in a huddle giving each other words of encouragement.
When speaking to several dancers on the team, it is evident that a meaningful aspect of being on Dance Team is the strong bond between members. When asked what her favorite part of being on Dance Team was, Elise Mizerak ’25 answered, “The community that I found. I found my closest friends on Dance Team. We’re all bonded by our passion for dance. I think it’s really special to do what you love with people who you love.” Similarly, McElroy ’24 notes that “the friendships I’ve built with the other members have been super important to me.” Seemingly, Dance Team is more than a club, but also a community.
If you are interested in watching Dance Team perform, come to Blood 101 on Nov. 10 and 11 for the Fall Student Dance Choreography Show. Furthermore, all students are invited to try out for Dance Team during auditions held at the beginning of each school year. Keep a look out for open practices offered during various times of the year to experience a Dance Team practice.
