Elmhurst University Dance Company turns up the heat with inclusivity

Out of the many sports teams at Elmhurst University, there are a few that do not receive well-deserved recognition, one of these teams is the Elmhurst University Dance Company (EUDC). 

EUDC is a student-run recreational dance team that performs at home football games and holds showcases at the end of the school year. The team is coached and captained by sophomore Emerson Azcoitia, who has been the captain for the last two years. 

“The dancers come in and they’re ready to do the work,” said Azcoitia. “They’re ready to try whatever I throw at them, and their energy is unmatched.”

Azcoitia continued, “The team makes it so easy for me to lead them. They respect my time and they respect each other. It’s like me hanging out with a bunch of my friends.” 

All the members are passionate about their team, and members like EU sophomore Mia Rondoni are proud of their captain.

“Emerson is the best captain I’ve ever had. From the audition, Emerson has had it together and they know what they’re doing,” said Rondoni. 

Along with the dances being choreographed by its members, Azcoitia tends to work with the choreographers to lend additional support and does some choreographing of their own. 

“The football games are honestly so much fun. I’ve only choreographed for one football game,” said Azcoitia. “I gave my team the autonomy to choreograph for the other games.” 

One factor EUDC prides themselves on is their diversity and their effort to include everyone.

“I went into EUDC with the intention to make this a space for everyone,” said Azcoitia. 

Their team includes people from all stretches of life. They are a strong LGBTQIA+ ally and have members from a variety of backgrounds, including an exchange student from Ukraine, Anhelina Yermolaieva.

As the rest of the semester progresses, the team is focusing on preparing for spring auditions and their spring showcase. 

“We’re really excited,” said Azcoitia. “I love my team and I love having so many different people and so many walks of life in the studio.” 

The team’s most recent performance was on Oct. 29, with another coming up on Nov. 12. Their end-of-the-year showcase will be held in April and auditions for the spring semester open on Dec. 2.

Photo provided by- Emerson Azcoitia