Raíces Dance Troupe brings the heat through multi-cultural tradition

While the cold of Syracuse plagued the campus, Raíces Dance Troupe lit up the stage and struck a fire in everyone who attended. 

The 29th showcase of Raíces Dance Troupe was a true celebration with no limits. Titled “Carnaval Sin Fronteras,” meaning “Carnaval without borders,” the event showcased eight dance groups from across campus spanning Latin, hip-hop, step and Sri Lankan dance styles. 

Featuring four main “floats,” elaborate, decorated moving platforms alongside costumed performers who symbolize themes or stories,  the showcase immersed audience members in the group’s cultural roots, and the crowd showed out throughout. 

The night began with “Fiestón,” an embodiment of stepping into the streets of Carnaval and embracing the welcoming environment. Raíces Dance Troupe members came out sporting vibrant blue and green skirts and electrified the crowd from the jump. Consistent partner dancing and an assortment of spotlighted members set the stage alight.

Next up were two of the seven guest groups performing on the night. This dance featured Kalabash, Syracuse’s premier Caribbean dance group who took the stage with attitude and an army-like wardrobe. Their moves were sharp and intentional, bearing a proud on-stage presence and never shying away from the spotlight. 

Photo by Nick Dekaney

The event showcased eight dance groups from across campus spanning Latin, hip-hop, step and Sri Lankan dance styles.

Then came the Outlaws, a hip-hop focused organization whose style was snappy, spicy and intimate. They were intense from the first sound, and the fast-paced choreography had audience members catching their breath once they left the stage. 

Act two, “Divina,” switched up the pace of the showcase, adopting femininity and a strength in vulnerability. This go around Raíces piece was fierce but sweet and the musical transitions were the smoothest of the showcase. 

Staying consistent, another handful of guest groups broke up the second and third acts. This time, however, it was Black Reign, SU’s only non-Greek affiliated step team, who stole the show. Though only a group of four, their stoic demeanor but passionate choreography kept the crowd waiting in anticipation during each sustained pause between their routines. On numerous occasions the audience could be heard showing love to the performers on stage, creating an empowering atmosphere.

Taking another new direction in this Carnaval was the Desi performance that followed. Highlighting classic Sri Lankan and Bollywood-esque pieces, this was a fun, loose and free-spirited dance number, featuring colorful dresses. What began as an affectionate solo act quickly spun its way into a full-fledged number, incorporating two teams playing back and forth with one another.  

Act three, “Calle y Flow,” was touted as the “main character” set of the night and it certainly did not disappoint. Tie-dye tees, bold choreography and an electric energy reminded viewers who they were there to see. One of the strongest routines of the night, the penultimate routine from Raíces, was a flex of their ability to show out. 

Photo by Nick Dekaney

The night featured performances from group guests such as the Outlaws and Kalabash.

The final act of the event, “Raices del Ritmo,” was the utmost homage to the group’s traditions. Full of salsa and tango, the troupe repped fiery red and gold dresses and collared shirts. According to Co-Chair Dakota Dorsey, this act focused especially on the troupe’s Latin roots. 

“This year we’ve had a lot more traditions than usual and I think that reflects the members on the team. In the past we’ve been very hip hop focused,” said Dorsey. 

The event concluded with bows and a recognition of the group’s seniors, who performed on stage for the last time in their college careers. The showcase was the complete party, taking from cultures all over the world and delivering them to SU’s doorstep.