Choreolab Showcases Student Voices

On the cover of the digital program for Choreolab 2025 was a quote from a Hopi proverb: “To watch us dance is to hear our hearts speak.” For the performance, this proverb could not be more true. Choreolab 2025 was incredibly unique, allowing the voices of choreographers and dancers to shine, and it was clear that every single person was dedicated to making their choreographer’s vision come to life. Each dance had so much meaning and emotion, and this was evident from the moment the house lights dimmed on opening night to the final bow on closing night. Choreolab prides itself on showcasing student voices and creativity, and this idea shone through during this year’s performance. The dances ranged from upbeat hip-hop routines to slow and expressive dances, but each dance carried a distinctive choreographic style that helped it stand out.

While the dancers on stage are the most visible to the audience, there is an entire group of people behind the scenes working tirelessly to ensure that each dance has lights, sound, props, and costumes. Choreographers collaborate with student lighting designers to develop lighting that fits the theme and choreography of the dances. Additionally, some dances may utilize projections or props. Time Doesn’t Wait for Anyone, choreographed by Olivia U. ‘25, used both of these elements. Midway through the dance, a video of a clock speeding up was projected onto the stage while dancers shone flashlights around the stage. These technical elements are not just for the benefit of the audience, but they also help to immerse dancers in the performance. Untitled by Maria G. ‘25 was an interesting dance to watch, as it was not based on an idea at all. Instead, it was based on the belief—according to Maria's artist statement—that art “should not be sourced from any particular idea, feeling, or concept but formed by pure creativity.” The choreographer encouraged the audience to interpret the dance however they wanted, giving them no theme or even title to build on. This idea of an audience choosing how to interpret the dance is unique even to Choreolab, where choreographers usually base their dances on a feeling or concept. One dance that had a strong, impactful theme was Carried by the Current, a dance about feeling like your choices are not your own and wanting individuality. The dancers were dressed in very uniform, monochromatic costumes, and the lighting was relatively consistent throughout the performance, reinforcing this idea of alikeness. I spoke with the choreographer of this dance, Ryann R. ‘25, and asked her what her favorite part of choreographing was. She proudly responded that her favorite part was seeing all of her dancers coming into their own through this experience.

This answer truly embodies the spirit of Choreolab—for all dancers to leave with incredible memories, new friends, and a lesson learned about how to be a better dancer and person. Choreolab 2025 was a hugely successful show, allowing dancers, choreographers, and crew members to express themselves through dance, artistry, and close-knit community.