The Sacred Heart University dance program is hosting its annual spring shows from April 11 to 13. The program will host shows for many different dance groups, such as the Dance Company, SHU Movement, Company
Choreography Fellowship Program, Dance Ensemble, SHU Force, Irish Dance Ensemble, SHU Claddagh Dancers, Hip Hop Production, and Inception Dance Crew.
Source: Contributed by Samantha Cunniff, ’25
Brianne Chave, senior member of the dance company, said that they will be performing contemporary, modern, ballet, and jazz routines. She said that their Saturday show, Moving Contra(diction), features two residencies, as well as additional performances with other choreographers.
“For our Sunday show, 7 Impressions, we will be showcasing our Company Choreography Fellowship Program,” said Chave. “These dances are all choreographed by members of the Dance Company and are all 7 minutes in length.”
Chave said that the professional track company has opened her eyes to career opportunities for dancers. Dance is a huge part of her life, and she hopes to continue after commencement.
“I hope that after graduation I can keep dance as a vital part of my life since I have been doing it for 19 years now,” said Chave.
Senior Samantha Cunniff, Captain of the Claddagh Dancers Irish Dance Ensemble, said that her most memorable experiences have come from the two trips she’s taken to Dingle, Ireland with the team.
“One of my favorite memories of these trips is going horseback riding on the beach and seeing the breathtaking view of the mountains along the horizon with the ocean glistening in the sunlight peeking through the clouds, while surrounded by my teammates,” said Cunniff.
Cunniff hopes this won’t be her last time performing. She says dancing gives her a feeling like no other, and this chapter coming to a close is sad but rewarding.
“It is a bittersweet feeling to be performing on the Edgerton stage for the last time. The joy I feel every time I step on stage is the best feeling in the world,” said Cunniff.
Cunniff advised to look out for the dance they learned while in Dingle for spring break.
“We mix traditional brush dancing and light shoe dancing, so it creates an interesting dynamic between the contrasting dance styles and we had a blast learning it in just a few days,” said Cunniff.
Zoe Vella, senior dance ensemble member, said that each ensemble show offers a variety of dance genres.
“Each show is about an hour long and consists of around 15 dance numbers, including tap, contemporary, hip-hop, heels, and jazz,” said Vella.
Vella said that dancing has always been an outlet for her. The Dance Ensemble program gave her a place to be herself, as well as meet others with the same passion and love for dance.
“It is an amazing release of any negativity I was feeling and allows me to express myself,” said Vella. “I have met so many great people through the program that inspire me every day.”
Vella said she is grateful that SHU offers so many programs for people to continue their passion for dance in college. She said many students at other schools do not have that opportunity, so she is thankful to have had the dance program.
“Although I am sad, I also feel extremely thankful for the opportunity that the
dance ensemble at SHU has given me to continue my greatest passion through
college because most people do not get that chance,” said Vella.
Vella said that if she were to give advice for incoming freshmen, she would encourage them to put themselves out there and do whatever makes them happy.
“College is a place to figure yourself out, so don’t be shy when it comes to trying new things,” said Vella. “The time flies by and you deserve to have the best four years of your life!”
Senior Sydney Stavraka, also a member of the dance ensemble, said that dance has shaped her into the person she is today. She said the dance program fosters a supportive community where members work together to create a comfortable and connected environment.
“The Performing Arts Program makes campus life more creative and connected, giving students a way to express themselves and be part of something bigger,” said Stavraka.
Students can purchase tickets for free with their SHU ID at the Edgerton Box from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. Tickets will be available starting the week of the show until one hour before each performance.
