Gizette Segura / Roundup
From the hi-tech projector on the ceiling to the polished studio floor, Pierce College’s improved dance studio is ready for intense synergy.
Before the extreme makeover the dance studio in the North Gym was not equipped with modern technology such as a screen that comes down with a push of a button or a hidden sound system.
“It gives you a sense of pride,” said dance instructor and cheer coach Jenny Ghiglia.
With tears filling up her eyes, Ghiglia mentions her fond memories of the old dance studio.
“I remember students working hard,” Ghiglia said. “Many hours of blood, sweat and hard work was spent in this room.”
The studio is home to 20 dance classes ranging from dance specialties, dance studies, and dance techniques. Some classes include: afro hip-hop, tap, latin social and salsa dance.
Although the project is complete there are still improvements to be made. The old dance studio had multiple light switches that controlled different sections of the overhead lights. The lights set a tone for the room and are essential for dance styles such as modern or jazz.
“You really can’t have a dance studio without it,” said Dance Vice Chair and Faculty advisor Marian S. Weiser.
Adapting to the new equipment is a task for some professors.
“It is heavy and high,” said Ghiglia. “I have to get on a stool to reach it.”
While the renovation occurred, classes took place at the Campus Center and the Performing Arts Building. Professors and students said it was difficult to adjust.
“I had to carry speakers on a cart from the Campus Center to my car, to the Performing Arts Building, then finding another parking space,” said dance instructor Denise Gibson. “That was very difficult.”
Gibson said there were other challenges of dancing in the Performing Arts Building.
“It was hot, dirty, limited dance space, and no mirrors,” said Gibson. “It’s not designed to have a dance class.”
Gibson said the students accepted the alternative dance room and always worked hard.
Some students said that the dance room alternatives were not a welcoming environment for learning dance techniques. Dance student Tina Nassoudi said the room made students not want to take the classes seriously.
“They don’t care you don’t care,” said Nassoudi.
Despite the new studio, some wonder if it’s getting enough use.
“When I pass by the studio I don’t see anyone using it. I want to see it being utilized. We want to inspire, entertain and perform; there are not enough outlets for that. We want to be able to use what we learn to show that form of progress,” said Dance and Fine Arts major Jay Pasi.
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Professor Marian S. Weiser goes through dance routines for her Modern Dance class, located on the North Side of the Gym. (Homer Perez / Roundup)