Dance X Highlights Student Creativity

Nearly three decades ago, theatre major Emily Stone BA ’97 created Dance X, an experimental dance performance featuring student choreography. Since its debut, the much-anticipated campus event has expanded to support choreographers and performers throughout their creative journeys within the theatre department. This year’s performance also marks the first for Tiffany Mills, Lewis & Clark’s new director of dance.

Tiffany Mills, director of dance
Credit: Julie LembergerDance X is particularly meaningful given the deep time commitment of each student choreographer. In the spring semester prior to Dance X, every student must take Mills’ Theatre 308, Improvisation and Composition, which serves as a deep dive into the principles of dance choreography.

“In 308, we work a lot on how to talk about dance,” says Mills. “So besides dance making, we talk about the talking, because it’s really important to be able to give feedback that’s constructive, that students can work with to help them get closer to what they want.”

In the fall, students enroll in Theatre 352, Choreography Dance X, to develop the pieces that will be showcased in Dance X. Unlike Dance Y, which is an entirely student-produced dance performance in the spring, Dance X is unique in its departmental connection. Students are able to work with experienced faculty and weave the disciplines of dance and theatre into their semester-long preparation for the performance.

During the fall, students engage in weekly production meetings and rehearsals that address not just the choreography itself but each individual element of a successful performance: costume, lighting, use of props, and music. This preparation is built from the ground up, starting with Mills, Technical Director Matthew Robins, and Costume Shop Manager Jenny Ampersand. As part of the development process, students create a concept slideshow that represents the work they aim to create. “Choices are never random,” Mills says.

Dance X does not require a structured theme and instead allows student choreographers to present a unique body of work. This year, students will perform dances that include a contemporary ballet, a piece illustrating water’s fluidity as a metaphor for femininity, and a hip-hop–infused performance.

Three alumni are also returning to cochoreograph: Hoby Reece BA ’24, Ally Rose BA ’22, and Cassidy Floyd-Driscoll BA ’24. “Alumni have told me Dance X has been a huge, seminal part of their education here. They valued the experience of getting to have an idea and then going through the whole production process,” says Mills.

This year, 7 student and alumni choreographers will present their work. To bring their pieces to life, a cohort of 32 dancers—all receiving class credit for their time and dedication—were chosen during an open call.

Mills emphasizes the welcoming environment evident in both Dance X and Lewis & Clark’s dance program overall. “It’s very inclusive—anybody can come and take a dance class. That said, dancers who have danced their whole lives can also grow deeply in the program.”

Those involved in Dance X cite many benefits to participation. “This experience has highlighted the importance of adaptability and reinforced the value of teamwork, dedication, and effective time management,” says dancer Gabriella Russo BA ’28. “It has also significantly contributed to my personal growth, artistic development, and ability to thrive in dynamic environments.”

For some students, performing in Dance X has encouraged their aspirations to choreograph. “Performing in Dance X has shown me that there is no right or wrong way to express yourself through dance. I’ve learned that I could try and choreograph something in the future, and I would have the support to do that,” says Kanani Seward BA ’27.

Students also appreciate the creative challenges involved. “The most challenging thing was definitely maintaining the essence of the dance,” says choreographer Alvin Kilenga BA ’27. “And the most rewarding thing has been seeing my dancers have fun.”

This year’s event will take place December 5, 6, and 7 at 7:30 p.m. (with an additional 2 p.m. show on December 7) on the Main Stage of Fir Acres Theatre. “I hope that when the audience comes that they feel something and they leave thinking about something,” says Mills.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the Fir Acres Theatre Box Office one hour before the show.

Dance Arts@LC