Campus Life held its first “Dancing Around the World” event to raise funds for the Center Against Family Violence.
On April 28, several performers of varied expertise danced in the Cafeteria Annex at the VV campus.
In addition to performing for the audience, dancers explained the significance of their dances to cultures in which they each represented.
“This was our first ethnic dancing event in which each dancer represents a different ethnicity,” said Michelle Ruiz, Campus Life representative.
“I initiated the event because I wanted to educate students about cultures through dance. Most of the dancers are students as well,” she said.
Niiki Garcia, business student at the MdP campus, danced Flamenco, a dance style derived from Spain. “I was totally excited about performing,” Garcia said.
“I had been choreographing new dance moves. I took classic moves and made them more modern.”
Representing Turkey, belly dancer Kristina Butler, stage named “Zahira SuJong,” had performed before for several pro-bono events all over El Paso and was overjoyed when asked to perform at this first-time event, she said.
“I am extremely for the cause,” Butler said. “I’m also one of the sponsors for ‘Enchanted Darkness,’ a benefit show for the Child Crisis Center.”
Mexico was also represented through the performances of Aztec dancing by Isela Laca and Baile Folklorico by Rodolfo Hernandez.
“All the monetary donations made by those in attendance went to the Center Against Family Violence,” Ruiz said. “I want it to become an annual event.”
Slated for next year’s “Dancing Around the World” is the representation of the Russian and Chinese cultures.
“Next year we will also choose a different organization in which to donate,” Ruiz said.
