OGX: Celebrating diversity through dance
Photo courtesy of Original Xpressions
Members of OGX are very active within the club and outside, as some of the members attended a cultural dinner on campus last week.
At SUNY Geneseo, student organizations are crucial in shaping campus culture and fostering community. Among these, Original Xpressions (OGX) stands out as the college’s only multicultural dance group, bringing together students from various backgrounds to share their love for movement, music, and self-expression. OGX is more than a dance group; it is a celebration of diversity, a platform for creativity, and a family for anyone who enjoys the passion of dance.
Dance is a universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and experiences. OGX embodies this idea by embracing various dance styles, from K-pop and hip-hop to Afrobeats, Latin, and contemporary dances. By combining such a wide variety of influences, OGX creates pieces that are entertaining but also educational and inspiring. The group’s multicultural approach allows members to explore various cultural traditions through dance, fostering both artistic and personal growth.
Apart from its creative function, the club is also a supportive and open community where students of diverse backgrounds come together to bond. Whether it is an experienced dancer or a beginner who just wants to learn a new hobby, everyone feels a sense of belonging in the group. The teamwork and camaraderie built through OGX extend far beyond the dance floor and create lasting friendships and relationships.
A key component of the club’s success is its members’ dedication and hard work. The group meets every Friday from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm in the Schrader Dance Studio, where they rehearse, refine choreography, and prepare for performances. These weekly rehearsals are more than just training sessions; they are opportunities for members to collaborate, push their creative boundaries, and grow together as a team. The energy in the room is palpable, with every dancer bringing their passion and enthusiasm to each session.
The commitment to being an OGX member extends beyond rehearsals. Members participate in event planning, fundraising, and performance planning, which allows the group not just to exist but also thrive on campus. In doing this, the group has made itself a lively presence on campus, inviting others to enjoy and be a part of the art of dance.
This semester is a big and exciting time for OGX, as the group is involved in several major events that showcase its talent and dedication. One of the most anticipated traditions of OGX is its semesterly Popcorn Chicken Fundraiser, which will take place this upcoming Saturday, March 8, at 11:00 pm in Parking Lot H. This popular late-night event allows students to enjoy delicious chicken while supporting the dance group. This fundraiser is essential for sustaining OGX’s activities and helping to cover costs for costumes, travel, and event participation.
Beyond fundraising, OGX is taking a significant step forward this semester by competing for the second time in its history. The last time the group competed was in 2018. This semester, on Apr. 13, OGX will participate in a dance competition at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). This event marks a new milestone for the club, providing an opportunity to showcase its talent on a larger stage and gain valuable experience in a competitive setting.
As the end of the semester approaches, OGX will host its highly anticipated annual showcase on April 26 and 27. This event serves as a grand celebration of the team’s entire year of hard work, creativity, and passion. Featuring a diverse lineup of performances, the showcase promises to be a mesmerizing display of artistry and cultural expression. More details will be announced soon, but for now, it remains a must-see event for anyone who appreciates the power of dance.
For students looking to immerse themselves in a vibrant, welcoming, and dynamic environment, OGX offers the perfect opportunity. The group welcomes dancers of all levels, encouraging anyone with an interest in dance to come and experience the joy of movement. Once again, practices are held every Friday from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the Schrader Dance Studio, and all are invited to attend and get involved.
As OGX continues to grow and evolve, its mission remains to celebrate diversity, foster creativity, and build a community through the art of dance. With major and exciting events on the horizon and an ever-expanding presence on campus, OGX is set to make this semester its most exciting yet. Whether as a dancer, supporter, or audience member, there are countless ways to be part of this extraordinary journey. Join OGX and be part of something uniquely special.