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| RACHEAL ALVSTAD / Scroll |
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| Members of the Contemporary Dance Theatre perform “Brushstrokes” by Yo-Yo Ma in Winter Semester 2005. Sarah Murdoch, former CDT member and part-time faculty member for BYU-Idaho’s Dance Department, choreographed the dance shown above. |
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BYU-Idaho’s Contemporary Dance Theatre (CDT) is looking for new members and will be holding auditions today at 5 p.m. in the Kirkham dance studio.
According to the Department of Dance, “The contemporary Dance Theatre performs a variety of genres of dance ranging from classic modern, jazz, tap, and ballet to inspirational lyrics and fast paced character routines.”
During the audition, a movement combination or dance, usually contemporary in style, is taught. Identified by assigned numbers, the dancers first practice the combination in large groups and are then split into smaller groups.
“The judges meet, a cut is made and the same process is repeated until dancers are selected,” said Sarah Murdoch, former CDT member and part-time faculty member for BYU-Idaho’s Dance Department.
Although auditions may sound intimidating, judges take into account many factors when selecting CDT dancers.
“One of the big things the judges look for is potential, and they look for potential more than perfection,” said Whitney Moranz, a four-year CDT member and a senior from Ada, Mich.
Judges also rely on prayer when making cuts, which ultimately determines who will be on the company.
“The Lord knows what he is doing and he will make sure those who need to be on the company will be on it. Being a part of CDT is a privilege and a blessing. It requires immense commitment and sacrifice, and those who are involved must be willing to serve with patience and diligence. Those who want to be a part of CDT have to realize that it is a team effort and there must be unity and willingness to work with others,” Murdoch said.
