The South Florida All Stars are all about Bulls pride and diligent practice. After all, it’s their goal to showcase the beauty and influence of dance to students at the USF St. Petersburg.
As USFSP’s only dance group, the All Stars have expanded to 13 members. The team has performed at an array of events, such as the Benefit-A-Bull Fashion Show, Homecoming Ball, Gay Straight Alliance Drag Show, Student Government Greenstock and several others.
President and assistant choreographer Justice Thornton is a self-taught dancer, having learned from being part of high school extracurricular groups and watching YouTube dance tutorials. Five years ago, she spent time practicing by continuously dancing in her bedroom, because she lacked the financial means to afford classes. Now, she’s president of the dance team.
“Dance challenges me, comforts me, heals me and uplifts me,” Thornton said. “In college, dance has allowed me to connect with other people who share my passion for the art. It has given me the opportunity to clear my mind from all the homework and studying.”
Sophomore Kristina Sonstroem said she has gained both skill and confidence by being the South Florida All Stars’ ballet instructor.
“In the beginning, I was terrified of teaching because I had never taught people my own age before,” Sonstroem said. “Once I worked through that, teaching has become one of my favorite times of the week. Watching my teammates grow and challenging them is very rewarding.”
Classes are held 9-10:30 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday in the Fitness Center. Tuesday nights are dedicated to ballet, while jazz and contemporary nights take place every Thursday. On Thursdays, the group alternates between teaching technique and choreography.
Classes aren’t exclusive to the All-Stars. Students are encouraged to drop by practices if they are dancers who want to get back into the groove of dance, or beginners who just want to have some fun.
Jazz and contemporary instructor Arin Hurd has been dancing for 11 years, though dance isn’t the only technique she’s enhanced.
“Being on the team has taught me time-management skills by learning how to prioritize” she said. “I balance being part of the team and being a student by finding a good mix of school and free time.”
The South Florida All Stars will perform next at the Black History Showcase hosted by the Office of Multicultural Affairs, where they will present three unique dances, according to Thornton: a African gumboot-inspired dance, a contemporary piece designed to Beyoncé’s version of “Ave Maria” and a modern dance to Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata,” which will convey the events of the 19th century Underground Railroad.
Although this performance isn’t until February, Thornton emphasizes that the spring semester will be quite a busy one for the dance team, with multiple performances lined up already.
Reflecting on how gratifying the All Stars have been, Thornton said, “It makes me proud every time I walk into practice. This team truly is the best.”
