Columbia’s largest student-run dance group made a huge splash at their By the SeashOrchesis performance. .

The two-act, approximately 90-minute performance began with palpable excitement and passion, where the opening dance displayed upbeat, party-like choreography to a Nicki Minaj medley choreographed by Abby Menkin (BC ‘25) and Haley Scull (BC ’25). The joy and love for dance emanated off the stage into the audience, making a gigantic, cheek-hurting smile inevitable for all who watched. The variety and individuality of each of the Orchesis performers and choreographers was masterfully showcased, with each dance bringing something entirely unique. From a heart-wrenching routine to “Lover, You Should’ve Come Over” by Jeff Buckley (choreographed by Kate Morton (BC’28)) to a female rage-driven spectacle to “Girl With One Eye” by Florence + The Machine (choreographed by Kira Ferdyn (BC ‘26)) to a rave-worthy, high energy piece to “The Way I Are” by Timbaland ft. Keri Hilson (choreographed by Anna Argenziano (CC ‘26)), By the SeashOrchesis had my emotions in its clutches. I laughed. I cried. I sat jaw-dropped.  With 19 dances throughout this semester’s performance, it would be impossible for me to pick a favorite. I will, however, relay a couple of memorable highlights from my absolutely wonderful experience at By The SeashOrchesis. 

Coming in hot after a touching, motivating piece to “C’mon” by Panic! At The Disco  (choreographed by Victoria Gonzalez (CC ‘27)), a routine to “Green Light” by Lorde, choreographed by Mei Protzel (BC ‘26), was unforgettable. Synchronicity was a captivating priority, with striking formations highlighting the admirable work of this piece’s dancers and choreographer. A perfectly-timed unison clap warranted an unexpected gasp from many, solidifying this dance’s place in my memory.

The post-intermission performance to “Edamame” by bbno$ and Rich Brian, choreographed by Sanya Gupta (BC ‘25), had me dancing in my seat, subconsciously brought to dancer-status by the magnetic choreography and sheer joy of its dancers. A fan favorite, this dance emphasized the importance of having fun on stage. 

“Chemtrails Over The Country Club” by Lana Del Rey and choreography by Breanna Ellison (CC ‘26), was brought to life by exquisite storytelling choreography and elegance personified in its dancers. With a prop bouquet and a field of white, flowy costumes, this piece took the saying ‘always a bridesmaid, never a bride’ to another level. The ending, in which a lone dancer gracefully struggled with the bouquet, finally throwing it to the other end of the stage as they collapsed to darkening lights and quieting music, left me absolutely speechless.

The surf’s-up theme was not to be ignored, with themed interludes reminding the audience of the ever-important, ever-approaching summer. The perfectly chosen song choices matched with sparkling choreography were sprinkled throughout the performance in short (but incredibly sweet) routines. Songs included “Surf Crazy” from Teen Beach Movie, “Surfin’ USA” by The Beach Boys, “Water” by Tyla, and “Cake By The Ocean” by DNCE. The Finale brought all of Orchesis, over 200 dancers and choreographers in total, together in an electrifying group dance to “California Gurls” by Katy Perry and Snoop Dogg. All of Roone was buzzing with 2010s nostalgia and pure enjoyment of this semester’s Orchesis performance. 

To conclude, Orchesis was a must sea. The beauty and profundity of everyone’s varying skill sets coming together in a passionate celebration of dance was a truly inspiring experience. If you have the chance, go see Orchesis! You won’t regret it. 

Header via Author