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Ruchi Mahadeshwar has been dancing for as long as she can remember when her parents first stuck her in Bharatnatyam classes, and from there an appreciation for dance was born. Now in her second year at UChicago, the econ major is returning to SASA’s stage as a dancer and choreographer.
“We spend a lot of time at UofC analyzing, thinking critically, and doing other such wonderful fluffy business and that’s exactly why I came to this school. But that also means, as students, we spend a lot of time responding to other people’s work,” explains Ruchi. “I love dancing because I’m not responding; I’m creating. I get to bring my own product to the table.”
This dedication to artistic creation was born after years of experimentation with both classical and modern dance styles, something that Ruchi decided to try after participating in her high school’s International Night. From there, the SASA choreographer dabbled in jazz, belly dancing, and other forms of modern dance, an experience that showed her how much she loved performing.
“Performing, somewhat similarly, also is a solace of its own considering that my four years here – and twelve years prior – are all devoted to these overarching goals of academic and career related successes,” says Ruchi. “Dance performances create these auxiliary goals for me, for example, I spend a quarter preparing for a performance or a year preparing for a competition. It’s something else to perfect, to devote my time, energy, and motivation to.”
And so far this year, her biggest devotion has been to SASA, where her participation as a dancer and choreographer shines through. Even with her busy schedule, Ruchi always finds the time to make sure that the SASA show is the best it can be.
“SASA in specific I love because its more of a family than a student organization. There’s a lot of love, energy, and definitely a lot of laughs. I know most people gripe about winter quarter, but it’s actually my favorite because I’m with my “family” on campus – so I feel most at home.”
Make sure to head on over to Mandel Hall for the SASA show this weekend! Tickets are $10, and definitely check out the afterparty!
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