In the streamer-decorated first floor of Braniff on Feb. 15, students gathered to dance the night away. The Swing Club, which meets weekly, hosted their annual dance, where students come in their best outfit and prepare to swing.
The dance, which was Valentine’s Day themed, also featured a highly anticipated competition. Valentine’s Day and swing spirit must have been in the air because there were several last-minute joiners to the competition.
Couples had 90 seconds to impress the panel of renowned judges- Dr. Berry, Mrs. Dr. Berry, Dr. Burns and Becca Leonard- with their dance moves. While a list of criteria to take first place was not given, the judges did have to come to a unanimous decision when picking the winner.
The couples went one at a time, showcasing their skills to the judges for 90 seconds straight. They flipped, twirled and dipped perhaps too skillfully, causing the judges to pick three couples to dance a final round.
After careful deliberation, the judges made their decision.
Levi Anderson and Mary Anne Panganiban took first place, demonstrating arguably the most streamlined performance. Aine O’Brien, the swing president, and Sophia Del Mazo won second place. Martha Depew and Theo Irlbeck took third place.
The prizes for first and second place were heart-shaped chocolate boxes for each of the participants, while third place received heart-shaped lollipops. Overall, a fun night was had by all, as is the case with all swing events.
The Swing Club has weekly dances for both beginning and experienced dancers and is always looking for new members! If good music, social dancing and meeting new people are things you’re interested in, contact Aine O’Brien at aobrien@udallas.edu.