West Chester University Dance Students Shine at ACDA Northeast Regional Conference
Two West Chester University students, senior Victor Stewart and junior Hannah Linkowsky, showcased their exceptional talent at the American College Dance Association (ACDA) Northeast Regional Conference in March.
Hosted at the University of Rochester, the conference served as a stage for college and university dance programs to showcase their work beyond academic confines. Approximately 30 universities and colleges attended the conference.
Stewart and Linkowsky presented solo performances in adjudication concerts, a cornerstone of the ACDA experience that involves performing in front of a panel of dance professionals who provide valuable feedback. This year nationally recognized dance professionals Alexandra Beller, Rainy Demerson, and Jesse Zaritt served as adjudicators.
Liz Staruch, WCU associate professor of dance and acting regional director of the ACDA Northeast conference, said the opportunity enhanced Stewart and Linkowsky’s artistic growth and understanding of dance. Stewart’s performance was chosen for a final concert, which was especially exciting because only 12 of 48 adjudicated pieces were selected.
“It’s a distinguished honor to be adjudicated into the final concert,” Staruch said. “It means there was something in the performance people wanted to see again.”
Stewart, a chemistry-biology major with a minor in dance, performed a self-choreographed solo titled “Le Chat” that he developed in his dance composition course. His piece, inspired by a personal poem about cats, demonstrated a blend of theatricality and expression.
Stewart’s journey in dance reflects a deep love for music and movement.
“I just love music and moving to it,” he said. “Dance combines my love of music and a way to further appreciate it.”
Stewart said the adjudication process revealed unexpected depths in his work, with themes of identity and pride resonating with the adjudicators providing feedback.
Staruch said she’s proud of Stewart and Linkowsky, especially considering their peers at the conference were from programs that offer comprehensive degrees in dance.
“Their success speaks volumes about the quality of our dance minor program at WCU, as well as the dedication and talent of our students,” she said. “They stood out among students pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in dance.”
The participation of WCU students in the ACDA Northeast Regional Conference underscores the University's commitment to providing comprehensive educational opportunities in dance, allowing students to explore their passion for the arts while pursuing diverse academic disciplines.
Molly Thorpe, a senior media and culture major and dance minor, also showcased work in an informal concert during the conference. In addition, 11 other WCU students attended as part of their continuing dance education. Gretchen Studlien-Webb, professor and dance minor coordinator, taught a workshop at the conference.
This event marks the fifth time WCU has been selected for the final concert recognition at the ACDA, highlighting the ongoing excellence and growth of the dance program under the guidance of dedicated faculty, Staruch said.