MSU hosts ‘Dance Around the World’ tonight

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By COLLEEN MCCARTHY
sdnedu@bellsouth.net [2]

Though they may come from different countries, speak different languages and wear different clothes, nearly every culture can find a way to relate through music and movement.
Culture from all over the world will be represented through the art of dance on stage at the Bettersworth Auditorium in Mississippi State University’s Lee Hall tonight for the fourth annual “Dance Around the World.”
The program will feature both traditional and modern dances from the international and local communities.
“Dance is a universal way of expression,” Bréa Roth, program coordinator for the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center, said. “’Dance Around the World’ gives an opportunity for the students here at Mississippi State University to showcase their cultures in such varied ways, from Nepalese folk dancing to a Starlight hip hop routine.”
The styles of dance highlighted during tonight’s program will be as diverse as the student groups and cultures represented. The Filipino, Indian and Nepalese student associations will each perform the traditional dances of their homelands.
Traditional dance will be mixed with more familiar styles, like modern ballet, hip hop and salsa. Other performing groups include the MSU Dance Theater Company’s Terpsichore group, the Starlight Dancers, the MSU Ballroom Dance Club, the Black Voices Praise Dance Team and the MSU pom squad, among others.
“It also gives those who attend the chance to experience another culture. It just shows you don’t have to jump on a plane and travel across the world. You can get a glimpse of these cultures in your own back yard,” Jackie Mullen, associate director of student activities, said.
Dance Around the World is sponsored by Campus Activities Board, the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center and the MSU recreational sports department. The event is free to the public and begins tonight at 7 p.m. in Lee Hall.