Katie Sun: Dancer and Choreographer

Claim to fame: Orchesis Chair, Choreographer, Dancer, Columbia Musical Theater Society Choreographer
Age: 21
Year: 2012
School: Barnard College
Majors: Dance and History

Where is home for you?
Sunnyvale, California – in the Bay Area, just south of San Francisco (GO GIANTS!). But don’t be deceived; it’s not always sunny. Just most of the time. 
 
Why did you choose to come to Barnard? 
It has fantastic academics, a wonderful dance program, and is in one of the greatest, most vibrant cities in the world – home to a plethora of dance and performing arts.
 
What do you like about NYC? What is your favorite thing about NYC?
I love that there is always something to do in the city. There are always places to go, and you can do and see just about anything. One of my favorite things is that I am able to hop on the subway, go to world famous performance venues, and see some of the world’s best performing artists.
 
What is your favorite place in NYC?
At the moment, my favorite place in the city is inside the Frick Museum, in the indoor Garden Court. It is absolutely beautiful and perhaps the most peaceful and quiet place in all of NYC. It is the perfect place to go when you need a break from your hectic NYC life.
 
When and why did you decide to start dancing?
I started dancing when I was four years old, and I’m not sure why. I think one day my mom just decided to put me in ballet class, and the next thing I know I was taking ballet, tap, and jazz classes every week.
 
When and why/how did you know you loved it?
I knew I loved dancing the first time I performed and could just dance. Whenever I am able to just dance, even in classes and/or rehearsals, I feel like I’m in a different world. I’m just dancing and doing what I love and nothing else matters. Nothing else can make me feel this way – and that’s why I love it.
 
What activities – dance activities in particular – are you involved with on campus?
I am Chair of Orchesis, the largest student-run Columbia University Dance Group, and I choreograph and dance in the Orchesis shows each semester. I am also the Choreographer for Columbia Musical Theater Society’s spring musical, The Wedding Singer.  Every year I also take multiple Barnard dance classes, and this semester I will be performing in the Barnard Dance Department showcase at the end of the year.
 
What tips or advice do you have for someone at Columbia/Barnard who loves to dance or wants to learn more and break into the dance scene on campus?
Come to Orchesis auditions! Orchesis is perfect for dancers of all levels, including absolute beginners, because we promise to cast everyone in our semester showcase. There are many different pieces of all different styles and levels – we have something for everyone! In addition, if you want to take a fun, 1-point credit course, there are always Barnard Dance Department classes in all levels of ballet, modern, tap, jazz, and African.
 
How do you balance dance and your academics?
Post-it notes, everywhere. My daily planner, scheduling my days, and keeping organized with To-do lists. And most importantly, taking a few minutes each day to turn my brain off, stretch, and just be.
 
You are the choreographer for the Columbia spring musical The Wedding Singer, Congratulations! What is it like choreographing a musical?
A lot of work, but fun! I’ve never choreographed a musical before, so working with actors and singers is a new experience for me. At times it can be quite challenging, but I’m learning a lot and overall having a good time. I think the show is going to turn out really well!
 
Where and how do you get your inspiration for your choreography – Wedding Singer and otherwise?
Music. Music inspires my dance moves.
 
Do you have any superstitions regarding performing?
Not really, but I hate it when people say, “Break a leg” before a performance. Then I’m just thinking about NOT breaking my leg onstage!
 
Do you have any general advice for college girls?
Don’t take yourself too seriously. You’re only in college once, you’re young, and you should enjoy yourself! Don’t let school take over your life – just don’t completely forget about it either. It’s all about balance.

“Hear me rORCHESIS” Dance Performance
April 1 at 9pm
April 2 at 9pm
Roone Arledge Cinema
Buy tickets here

CMTS’ The Wedding Singer
April 8 at 8pm
April 9 at 2pm & 8pm
Roone Arledge Cinema
Buy tickets here