On March 22 and 23, the Boone Family Theater will come alive with the rhythm of hip-hop as the Sanctify dance group presents its much-anticipated “Sanctify Showcase.” Since its inception in the fall semester of 2010, Sanctify has been on a mission to redefine the narrative around hip-hop culture, demonstrating how the love for Jesus Christ and a passion for dance can harmoniously coexist. This year, under the leadership of Aspen Malone, a senior biochemistry major, and Yuliana Jaramillo, a senior in financial management, the group is set to deliver a performance that promises not just entertainment but also a powerful message of unity and faith.
Breaking Boundaries with Every Beat
The upcoming Sanctify Showcase is more than just a dance performance; it’s a culmination of hard work, creativity, and collaboration. Alongside Sanctify, the stage will be shared with guest performers from diverse backgrounds, including the H1P3 Dance Group from Dallas, Omicron Xi Chi (OXC), Nu Kappa Psi (NKP), Swing Cats, and HSCru from Hardin-Simmons. This eclectic mix of performers underlines the event’s commitment to showcasing the wide-ranging appeal and versatility of hip-hop. The showcase will feature choreographies by Sanctify’s own talent, including Aspen Malone, Yuliana Jaramillo, Aaliyah Walker, Ana Romero, MC Price, Audrey Risberg, and Jennifer Bribiesca, promising an evening of innovative dance that bridges different styles and stories.
More Than Just Dance
Beyond the spectacle of the performances, the Sanctify Showcase serves a greater purpose. It’s an embodiment of the group’s core mission: to challenge and change perceptions of hip-hop, using it as a medium to express their faith and foster community. The initiative to include a variety of dance groups in the showcase reflects a deliberate effort to engage with a broader audience, breaking down barriers and creating a space where everyone feels welcome. According to Malone, the preparation for the show began on January 21, with practices held twice a week, underscoring the dedication and effort poured into making this event a success. Furthermore, the showcase is designed to be family-friendly, ensuring that it’s an inclusive experience for all attendees.
Looking Ahead
As Sanctify continues to grow and evolve, its leaders see the Sanctify Showcase as an opportunity to not only entertain but also educate and inspire. By incorporating a variety of dance styles and themes, the group aims to capture the essence of hip-hop as a powerful form of artistic and personal expression. The inclusion of guest performers from other universities and dance groups is a testament to the universal language of dance and its ability to connect people across different backgrounds. As Jaramillo notes, joining Sanctify without any prior dance background and rising to a leadership role has been a transformative experience, highlighting the inclusive and empowering nature of the group. With plans to reach an even wider audience in the future, Sanctify is not just performing; it’s paving the way for a new generation of dancers who are unafraid to express their faith and passion through the medium of hip-hop.
As the curtains prepare to rise on the Sanctify Showcase, it’s clear that this event is more than just a dance performance; it’s a movement. Through their art, the performers aim to convey a message of hope, unity, and the transformative power of faith. As they take the stage, they’re not just showcasing their talent; they’re inviting the audience to join them in a celebration of culture, diversity, and the enduring spirit of hip-hop.
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