You may be able to sing and you think you can dance, but can you step it up and “Rep Your Squad?”
That’s the question Stomp Fest organizers are hoping will be answered at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 18, in the first of what is hoped to be an annual stepping competition that has Lipscomb social clubs “battling” with their feet.
Kappa Iota Theta – formerly LUMA (Lipscomb University Multicultural Association) – is presenting the event in Collins Alumni Auditorium.
There is no admission charge, but donations for Youth Encouragement Services will be accepted during the course of the “competition.”
YES operates three centers in Nashville with the goal of providing tutoring and recreational opportunities for inner-city students, ages 6-18, both after school, on weekends and during the summer.
So if you haven’t seen or participated in step competition – whose popularity was fueled on campuses by the popular “Stomp the Yard” movie – this is your chance to do so and at the same time help the city’s youngsters.
In addition to YES officials, who will be making appearances, Jim Chandler — from “Woody and Jim in the Morning” on 107.5 The River – will be guest hosting.
Kappa Iota Theta, with the goal of “creating intercultural ties,” sought to provide an event in which students could have fun but also learn that the organization is not simply for minority students.
And already plans are under way for an expanded step competition next year.
“There are only social clubs participating this year,” said Elizabeth Hayes, Kappa Iota Theta president. “We hope to incorporate independents next year and for years to come.”
With assistance from KIT, if they needed it, the social clubs have made original step routines to perform and compete.
“Singarama was the first time I ever danced” said Lacey Thompson, sophomore Delta Omega stomp participant. “I learned how to Dougie from Chris Martin, which I was excited about.”
One club will even have a few members of YES help perform its routine.