Imagine this: the beat drops, your heart races, and suddenly you're not just moving — you’re alive. Every step, every sway, is a story, a feeling, a connection that transcends words. Dance is not just an art form; it is a language of the soul, a way to express what we sometimes can not say out loud. At the University of British Columbia Okanagan, dance is more than an escape from the pressures of academic life. It is a gateway to community, culture, and creativity. Whether you are losing yourself in the high energy rhythms of hip hop, the graceful turns of ballroom, or the electrifying fusion of Bollywood, dance at UBCO is where passion meets purpose. Let’s dive into the world where movement speaks louder than words and every step brings you closer to something bigger than yourself.
At UBCO, dance isn’t just an extracurricular activity, but a vibrant expression of individuality and a celebration of community. As you step onto the campus, you can feel the rhythm of student life pulsing through a variety of dance styles, each offering a unique way to move, connect, and express. Whether it’s the elegant waltz of the ballroom, the infectious energy of salsa, the street-smart beats of hip hop, or the colorful exuberance of Bollywood, UBCO’s dance clubs give students the freedom to find their own rhythm.
“Dance is the hidden language of the soul,” said Martha Graham, and this sentiment comes to life at UBC, where dance clubs provide a creative haven for students from all backgrounds (Graham, 1991).
United Dance Club: A Home for All Styles
One of the most prominent and diverse student-run dance clubs on campus is the United Dance Club (UDC). UDC welcomes students from all backgrounds and skill levels, offering a wide variety of dance styles such as hip-hop, contemporary, and jazz. With a membership fee of $30 for a single term or $40 for both terms, students can join weekly classes, engage in workshops, and perform in club events.
UDC is renowned for its inclusive environment, where students can find a supportive space to explore their passion for dance, whether they are beginners or experienced dancers looking to refine their skills. "I came to UBCO not knowing anyone, but joining UDC helped me find my people," says Emily, a second-year student and hip-hop enthusiast. "It is not just about dancing. It is about being part of something bigger, finding your confidence, and supporting each other."
One of the club’s most anticipated events is Danceology, an annual showcase held in March featuring solo and group performances. This event allows members to display their talents and creativity, fostering a deeper sense of community and celebration.
The diversity of dance styles offered by UDC encourages students to step out of their comfort zones and explore new genres. For Joshua, a third-year student, joining the club introduced him to jazz: "I’ve always loved contemporary dance, but after joining UDC, I started learning jazz, and it’s been amazing. It pushes me to try new things and keeps me excited about improving."
For beginners, UDC offers accessible classes designed to build confidence and foundational skills, while intermediate and advanced sessions provide more experienced dancers with the chance to challenge themselves. With its inclusive ethos and wide range of styles, UDC ensures that no matter a student's experience level, there’s a place for them to express themselves and grow. To stay updated on the schedule, apply as a choreographer, or participate in one of their sessions, students are encouraged to follow UDC's Instagram
Parindey Dance Club: Celebrating South Asian Dance
Bringing the vibrant energy of Bollywood and Indian contemporary dance to UBCO’s campus, Parindey Dance Club stands out as a space where students can celebrate their South Asian heritage or simply explore the colorful world of Bollywood dance. Parindey Dance Club embraces the fusion of traditional Indian dance styles with contemporary influences, creating an exciting and dynamic dance experience for its members.
What makes Parindey special is its focus on bringing together students from diverse backgrounds to share in their love of South Asian dance. The club's performances are filled with lively music, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling — key components of Bollywood and Indian classical dance. Through these performances, Parindey helps create a sense of cultural pride for students of South Asian descent while also welcoming students from other cultures to join in the celebration.
When asked about what makes Parindey unique, Chetanshi, a club member, explained that
"Bollywood dance is all about joy and celebration. Whether you're celebrating a festival, a wedding, or just dancing for the love of it, there is something special about how dance brings people together. Parindey is not just a dance club; it is a community where we celebrate who we are and where we come from.”
Through performances at campus events and festivals, Parindey Dance Club continues to introduce the UBCO community to the vibrant world of South Asian dance. By blending tradition with modern influences, the club creates a dynamic space for students to express themselves and connect with their cultural roots.
K-POP Dance Team: The Global Phenomenon
The global sensation of K-POP has taken the world by storm, and UBCO is no exception. The K-POP Dance Team at UBCO is dedicated to celebrating the choreography and music of Korean pop culture. For students who are passionate about K-POP, the club offers an exciting way to engage with their favourite songs and idols through intricate dance routines.
One of the key aspects of K-POP that has captivated fans around the world is its highly synchronized and polished choreography. For many UBCO students, joining the team is an opportunity to immerse themselves in this phenomenon by learning complex dance routines and performing them with precision. The team often covers iconic dances from popular K-POP groups, allowing students to step into the shoes of their favourite idols.
The K-POP Dance Team regularly performs at campus events and collaborates with other cultural clubs to put on spectacular shows. Their performances are not only a showcase of their hard work and passion, but also a celebration of Korean pop culture. For fans of K-POP, the team provides a space where they can express their love for the genre while honing their dance skills.
“We’re all fans of K-POP, but what really bonds us is the challenge of mastering the choreography,” says Jay, a team member. “These dances require a lot of practice, teamwork, and dedication, but the payoff is incredible when we finally perform them.”
Ballroom Dance Club: Elegance in Motion
For students seeking a more formal and refined style of dance, the Ballroom Dance Club offers an elegant experience in partnered dancing. The club provides lessons in a variety of ballroom styles, including salsa, waltz, and tango. Ballroom dance offers students a unique opportunity to learn how to move in harmony with a partner while mastering the technical aspects of each dance style.
One of the main attractions of ballroom dance is its focus on connection and communication between partners. Unlike other dance styles, ballroom dance emphasizes the importance of working together as a pair to create smooth, synchronized movements. For many students, this collaborative aspect is both challenging and rewarding.
"It is a completely different experience from dancing solo," says Maria, a fourth-year student. "You have to really tune in to your partner and trust them. It is about building a connection and learning to move as one."
The Ballroom Dance Club hosts regular classes and social events where students can practice their skills in a relaxed and supportive environment. For those who are interested in competitive ballroom dancing, the club also offers opportunities to compete in dance competitions. Whether students are looking to learn ballroom for fun or to compete, the club provides an inclusive space where they can enjoy the elegance and beauty of partnered dancing.
UBCO Bhangra Club: A Burst of Energy and Culture
One of the most electrifying dance groups at UBC Okanagan is the UBCO Bhangra Club, known for delivering powerful, high-energy performances that light up every event they participate in. Bhangra, a traditional folk dance from Punjab, is more than just entertainment—it is a celebration of culture, heritage, and joy. The club brings infectious enthusiasm to the stage, leaving audiences energized and inspired. What makes the UBCO Bhangra Club so special is how they proudly promote Punjabi culture on an international level, sharing their rich traditions with the diverse student body.
In addition to their performances, the club conducts workshops that give students the chance to dive into this vibrant dance style. These workshops are not only a fun way to learn Bhangra but also offer students an opportunity to mingle, make friends, and explore their interests in a welcoming environment. For anyone looking to experience the excitement and energy of Bhangra firsthand, UBCO’s Bhangra Club provides the perfect space to do just that.
Exploring Other Dance Styles and Communities
Beyond the major dance clubs, UBCO is home to a vibrant Latin Dance Club that introduces students to the energetic world of salsa, bachata, and merengue. These lively Latin dance styles, characterized by their rhythmic beats and passionate movements, offer students a fun and engaging way to connect with one another while exploring rich cultural traditions. Whether you're swaying to the sensual rhythms of bachata or letting loose with the fast-paced steps of salsa, the club allows you to immerse yourself in the dynamic, colorful world of Latin dance.
The Latin Dance Club is perfect for students looking to break free from academic stress and express themselves through movement. The club focuses on social dancing and communal learning, and fosters a strong sense of community. Beginners are always welcome, and experienced dancers can further hone their skills and enjoy sharing their passion with others.
The Latin Dance Club also offers social events where members can practice their moves and bond with fellow dancers. Whether you’re looking to learn something new or join a community that celebrates the heart and soul of Latin culture, this club ensures that there’s a place for everyone on the dance floor.
Why Dance Matters: More Than Just a Hobby
In a world where academics often take center stage, dance offers a much-needed escape; an opportunity to express yourself, find your rhythm, and connect with others in ways words can’t capture. Whether you're drawn to the raw energy of hip hop, the cultural beats of Bollywood, the elegant flow of ballroom, or the lively passion of Latin dance, UBCO’s dance clubs have something special waiting for you. Beyond learning steps, these clubs are about discovering yourself, building friendships, and experiencing the vibrant cultures around you.
Dance has the power to transform not only how you move but how you see the world, and UBCO's diverse dance community is proof of that. So, why not step out of your comfort zone? Take a class, feel the music, and experience firsthand the joy that comes from moving with purpose. Even if you've never danced before, UBCO’s dance clubs provide a supportive, welcoming environment where everyone can thrive. Give it a try — you might just find that the dance floor is where you truly come alive.
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