of art & design
An Interview with Jessica King, president of DanceVisions
DanceVisions is one of two student performance companies in the NC State Dance Program. Averaging between 20-30 members each academic year, students learn and perform a variety of modern, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, and African dance in events on and off-campus. Professional guest artists are brought to NC State to teach master classes and for choreographic residencies with the company.
Structured as a student organization with funding and support from the NC State Dance Program, DanceVisions relies on the leadership of its student Executive Board members to help shape the activities of the group. Serving as Treasurer for the 2006-2007 and 2007-2008 seasons, senior Jessica King steps into the role of President this year, and she shares a little insight into how DanceVisions has greatly enriched her college life.
Why did you decide to audition for DanceVisions at the start of your freshman year?
I was co-captain of my high school marching band’s flag and dance team and knew I wanted to continue dancing once I got to college. After researching the different dance opportunities on campus, I landed on DanceVisions. I was intrigued mainly because they perform such a wide variety of dance styles; I came to school to learn new and different things, so I thought DanceVisions would be the perfect fit.
Since this is your fourth year with the company, can I assume it was the right fit for you?
Absolutely. DanceVisions is my ultimate family away from home. More than just dance, the company has taught me how to be patient and open to new ideas. I’ve learned how to truly be a part of something bigger than myself and to accept constructive criticisms. With help from our Advisors and Artistic Director, they taught everyone in DanceVisions what it really means to put forth your best effort for the benefit of the whole.
DanceVisions was founded by NC State students Rhonda, Pamela and Inga in 1977, and it was the first dance group at NCSU. Does the significant history of DanceVisions affect you personally, as a member?
The women who founded DanceVisions did so because they loved to dance – the same reason I joined in 2005. The group has flourished at NC State because of the determination of those founding women, the first and subsequent members, and the help of so many people along the way. To know I play an integral part of the future of DanceVisions makes me very proud.