As of December 2016, St. Joseph’s adopted a new and unique club called The Step Team. Step dance is a form of dancing without music, where performers become the music. In other words, the participant’s body is used as an instrument to produce rhythms and sounds through a mixture of footsteps, spoken word, and hand claps.
The origin of stepping comes from the rich tradition in African-based communities. Early slaves were discouraged from communicating in their native languages and continuing their native customs. As a result, they developed the step dance, which was a method of communication and was used to exchange important messages and news regarding the Underground Railroad. During World War II, many African American soldiers used Step Dancing as a form of entertainment during the hard times of battle. This represented the transformation from a communication method to an entertaining dance.
St. Joseph’s Step Team is a very uplifting and impressive aspect to any talent show or even presentation, as they provide a creative and captivating performance every time. The Step Team is made up of six very talented and astounding lasers; Sukhdeep Chaggar, Marlene Knombo, Tina Ighorewo, Martine Minga, Marilyn Tshikani, and Larissa Dushime. Now recruiting, Mariam Worku and Laureen Sumoba. The Laser Step Squad is a perfect example of true Laser talent and flexibility, as it also shows diversity in the club offerings at St. Joe's, resulting in more interest-stimulating clubs for you!
Sukhdeep Chaggar discusses the beginning of the Step Team and how it is applicable to the students of St. Joes in an interview below:
Laser News: What inspired you to create this club?
Sukhdeep: “Some friends and I discussed the value of music for our generation. We continued into the conversation with culture and how each of us represent our music through our culture. We came across the idea of step from a friend from England, after watching several videos and time spent having enticing conversation we were very intrigued and soon learned that anyone can perform step and have an amazing time as well.”
Laser News: How might this club contain a variety of skills to accommodate the interests of students at St. Joe's?
Sukhdeep: “Step team is a club that applies to anyone, if you have rhythm you can step, it doesn't matter the culture, dress, height, age, etc. Step allows you to come together as a group and perform as a family.”
Laser News: What is the overall idea or possible message wished to convey through this club?
Sukhdeep: “The message that STEP conveys to students is acceptance. Acceptance of anyone, no matter what you bring to step, we use and we value. We understand the diverse population we have at St, Joe's and we understand how it can be used or brought together- creating music through oneself.”