Sunflower Dance Festival: Where Every Step Finds Its Rhythm
- Annalise Angell
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
On Monday, February 16, hosts Anna and Derek welcomed a special group of guests to The Evening Drive, one of Wildcat 91.9’s currently running shows. The studio buzzed with energy as Aubrielle Delaney, president of the Kansas State Latin Dance Club, and Abena Taylor, the club’s vice president, took their seats behind the microphones to talk rhythm, community, and the highly anticipated Sunflower Dance Festival.
Aubrielle, an Animal Science-PreVet sophomore, serves as president and keeps the club running behind the scenes. Abena, a Digital Innovation in Media major, not only supports club leadership as vice president but also organized this weekend’s festival. When asked to warm up with some quick questions about their favorite dance styles, both lit up Abena shared her love for bachata, explaining that the timing feels more forgiving and easier to settle into. Aubrielle said she enjoys both salsa and bachata, depending on whether she’s looking for a challenge or just wants to move with the music.
For anyone unfamiliar, the Latin Dance Club at K-State is less about perfection and more about community. According to Aubrielle, the club is a welcoming space where students can meet new people, try something different and maybe even discover a new hobby. No experience is required. No partner is required. Students can walk in with zero dance knowledge and two left feet.
Abena describes a typical meeting as structured but approachable. Sessions begin with a warm-up and basic steps before moving into patterns and partner work. The club often teaches two styles during their two hour meetings, giving members variety while reinforcing the foundations. Beginners are not just accepted; they are encouraged. As Abena put it, “Beginners are the backbone of the dance community. We love them and so we always want more people learning”. Members can practice basics to the music, step aside for extra help, and learn at their own pace. Aubrielle added that she herself joined with no prior experience and was taught everything she knows through the club.
One surprise for newcomers is how accessible Latin dance really is. What can look fast and complicated in videos is built on simple foundational steps. Another surprise is the size of the dance community. From local socials to other campus organizations, there are more opportunities to dance than many students initially realize.
Importantly, performances will feature established dancers and guest groups. First time attendees are not required to perform. The festival is intentionally beginner friendly. As both leaders emphasized on air, this event is designed for anyone curious about trying dance for the first time. Whether someone feels like they have two left feet or simply want to expand their comfort zone, the festival offers a low pressure opportunity to learn.
When asked about their own first experiences with Latin dance, both leaders reflected on how quickly curiosity turned into passion. What started as stepping into something new became a meaningful part of their college journeys. Dance ce has offered them community, confidence, and connections beyond the classroom.
To close out the interview, Anna and Derek put them through a lightning round. Salsa or bachata? Bachata. Lead or follow? Following because it's fun to learn different peoples' lead styles. Spins or footwork? Depends on what the person is better at. Practice or social dancing? Social dancing wins by far for the social aspect. One word to describe the festival? Welcoming and hopeful.
Students can find more information, purchase tickets, and stay updated through the club’s social media:
Instagram: @latindanceclubmhk
Facebook: Latin Dance Club by Studio 4
Email: latindancemhk@gmail.com
With workshops, performances, and two full days of movement and music, the Sunflower Dance Festival deserves a spot on every February calendar. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or someone simply looking for a new experience, Nichols Hall will be filled with rhythm, energy, and community this weekend.