Upcoming Events!!

Thank you to everyone who came out to our show "Off the Wall" back in February! Also, a huge thank you to our sponsors and everyone involved with making the show happen.

What's next for Underground? We have a few other tricks up our sleeves but the most recent event is taking place on April 26th! Underground is honored to be performing in "Shades of Black" in Boise, ID. It's a highly anticipated cultural showcase taking place at Boise State University. As an added bonus, it's FREE! For more information, check out the Facebook event page here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1400423770225465/

Another HUGE announcement! UWD will be holding auditions for Underground's next season on AUGUST 16th!! So mark your calendars and check out the Facebook event page for more information:
 https://www.facebook.com/events/618127574933578/

LAST SHOW TONIGHT!

 

CLOSING NIGHT!

 

Tickets are now only on sale at the ticket office.

You can arrive at 6:30pm tonight to purchase tickets.

 

315 S. 1500 E.

Marriott Center for Dance

University of Utah

 

 

6:30pm | ticket office opens

7:00pm | seating begins

7:30pm | Show starts

 



SATURDAY AND SUNDAY SHOWS

 

SATURDAY TICKETS CAN ONLY BE BOUGHT IN PERSON NOW!!!

 

 

THERE ARE 2 SHOWS TODAY

2:30PM

&

7:30PM

 

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

MARRIOTT CENTER FOR DANCE

UNIVERSITY OF UTAH

330 S. 1500 E.

 

GENERAL ADMISSION $16

STUDENT TICKETS (WITH STUDENT ID) $10

 

NO REFUNDS. IF YOU HAVE PURCHASED THE WRONG DATE OR TIME, YOU MAY SHOW UP IN PERSON TO EXCHANGE TICKETS,IF THERE ARE STILL TICKETS AVAILABLE.

 

WE ARE RAFFLING AWAY GIFT BASKETS!

$1.00 RAFFLE TICKET

 

2:30PM SHOW RAFFLE BASKET

JAZZ BASKETBALL, SIGNED BY PLAYERS, JAZZ SHOES SIGNED, UNDER ARMOUR GIFT CARD, STARBUCKS GIFT CARD, KID TO KID GIFT CARD.

 

7:30PM SHOW RAFFLE BASKET

KNEADERS GIFT BASKET!

 

 



OPENING NIGHT!!!

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21st 2014

7:30pm

FRIDAY TICKETS CAN NOW ONLY BE PURCHSAED

AT THE TICKET OFFICE

 

Saturday and Sunday tickets are still available to purchase on this site.

 

TICKET OFFICE WILL OPEN AT 6:30PM

DOORS WILL OPEN AT 7:00PM

 

Tickets are non-refundable. If you have purchased the wrong date or time, you will need to show up to the ticket office to exchange it for the correct date and time. This is only if tickets are available for the show you are wanting.

 

  

Jr. Underground 2014

 

Meet.....

 

JR. UNDERGROUND CREW

 

"Jr. Underground Crew was an idea my husband (Bobby Kuhn) and I both had. After our first show of Underground, we had several young dancers who loved what they saw and wanted to be a part of the experience. Since our intentions were to unite the Hip Hop scene, with the Studio Scene...what better way to do that by bringing all types of young dancers, from different studios and different trainings' together to share one love. We have dancers from all walks of life. A few dancers who strictly train with private teachers to develop their freestyle, like popping and/or hip hop. We then have dancers from several different studios such as Just Dance Studio, Synergy Dance Academy, Becky School of Dance, LA Dance Co. and Dance Crew (I could be missing some). The only requirement we ask of these dancers is that they are training out side of Jr. Underground. This program does not offer intense training, it is only taking what dancers are already working on and helping them utilize those talents in our show. We don't offer free lessons', we are simply giving current dancers an opportunity to perform in a professional show, and learn what its like to do lighting, tech rehearsals, and a more theatrical performance. Dancers need to be at an intermediate/advanced level when they audition. It has truly been a honor to work with these dancers and we are thankful for the support their parents bring."

 

-Andrea Kuhn

 

 

Choreographers for the Jr. Undergound piece this season is Savinn Chhoun and Uly

 

What has been the best part about getting the opportunity to work with Jr. Underground?

 

"The best part about teaching jr underground...that's a tough one because I keep writing something and end up deleting it! Everything about jr underground is amazing! I appreciate the young talent that they bring to the table and that definitely inspires me to be a better dancer. I'm assuming most of jr underground comes from the studio world and to see them quickly adapt to something totally different is jaw dropping! Love y'all!"

-Savinn Chhoun

 

 

 

 

"Knowing the talent only gets better and better, and having the next generation of dancers learn so quickly and get better, makes me more hungry to become a better dancer"

-Uly Gonzalez

 

 

Uly and Savinn are 3rd season members and they are one of the hardest working, reliable and respectable dancers we have. They have grown immensely over the years. They are very creative and we can't wait to see what the future has in store for them.

 

Thank you Savinn and Uly for the extra time you put into the Jr. Underground piece! 



 

 

"The people who make this show happen......"

 

 

Take a closer look at the choreographers of the show as well as business partners of United We Dance! A special thank you to the business owners who have purchased Ad space in our program, for our upcoming show.

 

 

 *If you are a business owner and interested in purchasing Ad space in our program, the deadline in Sunday, February 9th 2014. You can pay for the space, with the drop down box to the right. You must then, email an Ad to unitedwd@gmail.com . United We Dance, will send you an email with some documents for your record.

 

 

Meet Olivia!

 

Assistant Director

 

 

 

"Olivia Fullmer, has played a key role in making this dream come true. With her sponsorship of Herbalife, equally with United We Dance Funding, she has helped make each show a reality. Olivia is one of the most kind, fun-loving people that I know and we are so blessed to have her. Her ballet training is impeccable and our dancers our lucky to have her as a dance mentor as well as a nutrition inspiration."

 

-Andrea Kuhn

 

 

Read Olivia's interview

 

What has been the greatest learning experience being on Underground?

 

"Opening up my mind more and being adaptable. I've had the privilege to know and work with people from so many different disciplines, cultures, and personalities and it has expanded my knowledge and my heart."

 

What has been your favorite part about this season?

 

"The people on Underground. Every single one of them throughout this whole season I absolutely love. The growth and energies is unique with each individual and my favorite thing is that I get to see it and be a part of it and it inspires me."

 

What is your message to the dance community?

 

"Acknowledge every dancer in our community no matter what style and what experience. If you take the time to expand your acknowledgments, it will not only influence yourself but imagine what kind of influence and inspiration you'd give that dancer. Live, Laugh, Dance, and Love!"

 

Don't stop reading......

 

There are more interviews with the fabulous choreographers' of "Off the Wall"

 

Meet Diego! 

 

2nd Season member and Choreographer

 

 

 

"Diego, has been an inspiration to me. He can take one of my moves and turn it into gold! His creativity keeps me on my toes and reminds me that I need to continue to have new and fresh ideas. If you know him or have ever sat with him, he comes off quiet and observant. Which is exactly what contributes to his ability to be so creative. He is literally, sitting back, taking in his environment. Diego is a young dancer and has a great future ahead of him."

 

-Andrea Kuhn

 

 

What has been your greatest lesson in life, thus far?

 

"That's a tough question! Life has a funny way of revealing which path is the right path to take. In the few years I've been able to experience life as an adult, I've learned that it's up to you as an individual to decide where you go on your journey to find yourself. The greatest life lesson I've had thus far is that no matter what, people will always try and tell you what you shouldn't and can't do. To some, it becomes discouraging and can lead you away from your path and your goals. For me, I've learned to use it as motivation to prove that I can in fact do what I choose and go whatever direction in life I want.. Because at the end of the day, it's your life and your journey; So make it something you want, not what someone else wants. Take that negative energy and make it into something positive and beautiful."

 

You are known for your edgy choreography, what keeps you so innovative?

 

"I seriously would love to know why my brain works the way it does! I get a little freaked out when I see some of the pieces and some of the choreography I've created over the years. It's hard to believe all that came from me. I get inspired and innovated from the reactions and feedback I hear from friends, family, and other dancers/choreographers. Also, thinking outside of the box is something I find to be incredibly challenging and I use that to start up my creativity. Having that mindset along with the feedback I receive has always been a big part of why I stay so fresh, quirky and on top of my A game."

 

What has been the biggest challenge as a male dancer in a society that sometimes judges men who do ballet, contemporary etc.

 

"I think one of the biggest challenge men face as dancers is the fear of being judged. I've had my fair share of people who have laughed at me or told me that dancing wasn't something a guy should do. It's hard, and can seriously take a blow on your self

-esteem. One thing I find to be helpful is to stay focused on your goals and the things you truly wish to achieve as well as surrounding yourself with a support group who respects you for who you are."

-Diego

Tickets for our show are now on sale and going quick!!!!

 

 

 



 

Meet Andrea Kuhn!

 

Owner, Director and Contemporary Coordinator of United We Dance, Underground Crew & Jr. Underground Crew.

 

 

 

Andrea and her husband, Bobby Kuhn started Underground Crew 3

 years ago, as their way to unite all the styles of dance and create more opportunity for adult dancers.

 

Read Andrea's Interview (questions from Charly Northrup)

 

 

How did you come up with the idea "Off the Wall"?

 

The first season we did a show, we really had no "idea" so we focused on debuting ourselves, the different styles we were choosing to explore and debuting as a performing dance company. The second year, everyone was pretty set on having a story line/theme. Our second season was a huge success but we received a lot of feedback from non-dancers that they actually enjoyed shows that really had no story line. I think people enjoy a wild roller-coaster ride because it helps them escape. We wanted each piece to be unique and "Off the Wall". We felt we could bring that out of choreographers, by titling the show "Off the Wall".

 

What have been your goals this season?

 

I always have several goals, in different areas of the business but my main goal this year was to develop a high standard program, that brings out more than just talent in dancers but molds responsible, respectable and reliable adults. I've been given crap a lot within the adult community about how strict I am but the more time that I put in to this, I realize the importance of what we should actually be teaching these young adults. I want to not just help develop or add to what talent and knowledge these dancers already have but I want to help contribute to giving them life lessons that can benefit them. Everyone should be responsible, respectful and reliable. I'm sure not everyone intends to dance their entire life but they will always have to work and provide for them selves and those are three attributes you need to get through life.

 

What does the future hold for Underground?

 

That is a very loaded question. This entire program has been a huge adventure and there have been times where what came next was a surprise. We were hoping to get going more quickly than we originally did but everything worked out just how it was suppose to. This season of Underground has been a huge payoff in the sense that we are starting to see the results of our mission. This season has given me more motivation to work toward larger goals. After our show in February , we will be doing some traveling and we have a couple other things planned for this season but our supporters will have to continue to follow us and see what amazing things come. We will be here and we will be getting stronger every year.

 

-Andrea Kuhn

 

 

 

 

 



Meet Tia Aiono!

 

Waacking Coordinator

 

 

 

Tia is brilliant at what she does. We has a fiery personality but has such a kind heart. She is truly amazing human being. Her art showcases not only her ability to feel music, piece together choreography but also shows what a humble person she is and is dedicated to growing as an person not just a dancer. We are so lucky to have her on Underground, since the day we started and our story would not be the same without her presence.

 

-Andrea Kuhn

 

Read Tia's personal interview!

 

What makes this specific show unique?

 

This show gives randomness reason. The show truly is "off the wall" with a purpose of uniting different art forms and people together.

 

What has been most memorable for you this season?

 

One of my most memorable experiences of this year was the creation of MADD Hater. There was a larger journey behind that piece. The journey of bringing waacking back to its original form of "punking", the dramatic and transformational side of waacking. This art form is so much more than arms flying. We created this piece together out of nothing. Everyone was given freedom to create their character and movements. Together we created a magical world that exists beyond our daily reality...there within lies the root of punking.

 

What is your message to others from you as a dancer/teacher/mentor & choreographer?

 

Stay humble. Stay hungry. Never cease growing and learning. Be inspired by the randomness of the world, of yourself. When others doubt you, never doubt yourself. Believe and trust in yourself at all times, but be open for transformation at any time.

Underground has changed my life. The goal in life is not to live forever, but create something that does. I feel Underground has done that for more than just myself.

 

 



Meet the choreographers!

Each choreographer has been asked different questions and each of them have something unique to share. Read to find out more about the Undergrounders' of this season's show "Off The Wall"

Estevon "Boogie" Scruggs

House and Popping Coordinator 

Estevon brings a very diverse hip hop background to Underground. We enjoy having him on the company because he continues to bring fourth fresh ideas and perception of choreography and the scene. He is a 3rd season member and it has been a joy to watch this young man evolve in many different ways in his life, not just dance. Estevon's performance in this show will be possibly one of the best I've seen from him in the last 3 years, in a stage production setting. His Popping Crew, Boogie Techz, will also be special guest performers. Estevon will always have a special place in my heart, like a little brother.

-Andrea Kuhn

What makes this specific show unique?

What I feel is going to make this specific show unique, is that we really focused on the idea of creating a perfect picture as a whole company of what the vision of coming off the wall really means.

What has been most memorable for you this season?

Traveling for the first time to Boulder,Co. for an event called the Block Party. That event brought the most important thing about hip hop back into my life, the concept of Love and having Fun. Their hip-hop scene is completely amazing:) Shout out to Side by Side for having us out there.

What is your message to others from you as a dancer/teacher/mentor & choreographer?

Do not forget the roots of where these dances have came from and the reasoning behind each one, they will help you create and plant your roots as you take your journey:)

-Estevon

Get your tickets!!!

 

ON SALE

 

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24th 2014

 

 

Click on the link to the right and purchase tickets starting January, 24th 2014.

 $16 per ticket

$10 Student ID

(Student price only available in person at ticket counter before each show, with ID present)

 

Ad space is available for purchase

$25.00 1/4 page

$50.00 for 1/2 page

$100.00 + for 1 full page

 

contact Andrea

unitedwd@gmail.com or 801-834-2422

 

 



Five Buck Friday

Five Buck Friday!!!

Click on the link in the upper right corner of this page and contribute your $5 now!!!

 

 Underground Crew

"Helping to mold the lives of young adult dancers"

 

Read what Underground Crew members have gained from their experience on the company.

 

"Aspiration. A hope or ambition of achieving something.
Being apart of underground made me realize the true meaning of aspiration, being able to dance with so many other dancers and having the opportunity to travel to Colorado, having the opportunity to perform for various people who have never seen me dance, having a life changing performance like the one we did for Ghana, created the HOPE in aspiration that I sought, the HOPE to be able to change and make a difference in people's lives, for me UWD created that ambition for me to want to be successful, it gave me that drive to want to share what this company has with everyone else. I have gained the aspiration to want to share my dance in a whole different way. Aspiration."

-Estevon Scruggs

 

 "With Underground I've learned how to strive and to embrace the thirst for knowledge. I am learning new things every practice and it inspires me to keep pushing and absorb as much as I can from everyone because everyone has so much to offer."

-Justin Katoa

 

"From being on Underground I have learned that confidence is something I have to create myself. Letting go of my pride & being able to laugh at myself when I feel so extremely uncomfortable in a new style has made me such a better dancer & a stronger person. I have also learned that there are so many talented people here in Utah with so much to give! All these dancers are unique & have something to share."

-Bradi Nelson

 

"I've learned to be clay not rock. Clay is moldable, allows for growth and evolution. The shape changes, but the substance stays the same. The dance, the people, the show changes...but the passion stays consistent."

-Tia Aiono

 

"I learned that it is possible to get a long with other dancers even though the style they do is different from yours. I learned friendship and trust. UG taught me that the outside of my comfort zone isn't as bad as it seems."

-Tonga Lavulo

 

"I have learned that it's impossible to stop learning. Each and every person you meet brings something new to the table - a new style, a new outlook, new inspiration, new background, and so much more. The dancers on Underground have opened my eyes to so many different styles, and it's beautiful to watch and be inspired by the passion each individual has. Through Underground, I have experienced how powerful it is to be a part of a group that celebrates something beyond themselves. The energy that radiates from each dancer has created such a strong group connection, and has facilitated an environment where there is no failure, only growth, and no judgment, only love."

-Courtney Schneider

 

This year I have been living by a quote that has helped me stay really focused on what I want.
"If you can't figure out your purpose, figure out your passion. For you passion will lead you directly to your purpose."
'-anonymous
"This year, my passion for creating and my passion for artistry has helped me to live for what drives my ambition... And Underground is my passion."

-Diego Ballesteros

 

"Being on underground, I have assured myself that dance really is my passion. There's no more doubt. No more worries. Dancing around all these talented people with so many unique styles has really cemented that for me. The joy you guys bring me through dance and friendship, how did I get so lucky?! I'll never forget this team and these months we've been through!"

-Ofa Nae Vahe

I've learned a lot being on underground and to me it's about taking the initiative. I had to think twice before taking action and now I feel more confident in myself. I've grown as a dancer and more into a man because of you guys. I can prove it through my dancing. Thank you.
-Savinn Chhoun

 

 

 

What is Underground Crew?

A performing dance company, that focuses on exploring all styles of dance as well as building character. This program is intended to help unite all the different styles of dance, by encouraging its members to train in various styles, not just their favorite. Members are trained in; contemporary, ballet, hip hop choreography, waacking, popping, house, breakdance, tap dance and ballroom. Underground has high expectations of its dancers intended to help build character and teach discipline, punctuality, commitment, respect and tolerance of one another.

 

What is Five Buck Friday?

Underground Crew spends a lot of time giving back to the community. This year, they started an after school dance program at the Guadalupe School. Every dancer who shows up to teach classes at the Guadalupe School, is a volunteer that is able to make a difference. They have also started visiting Elementary Schools, hosting assemblies that bring a positive message for children.

"Five Buck Friday" is a chance for our own supporters to help us accomplish our goal of raising funds for the upcoming show, OFF THE WALL.

"Five Buck Friday" is a great opportunity to help make a difference and keep our program thriving.

 

 

 How else Can You Help Underground?

Underground is seeking sponsor's for our upcoming show "Off the Wall" and we need your help. As most of you know, our vision is to create an amazing, top quality all styles movement show. We try to improve the quality and vision with every season. Underground is united by a passion for movement, art, love, authenticity, and positive energy. We want to continue to fund this program not only for the dancers experience but for our audience and our sponsors.

Through kind contributions, "Off the Wall" will come to life and make our dancers passion thrive. We need funding for our show, rental expenses, costuming, and programs. If you would like to purchase an ad space (or know of anyone who would), your business ad/logo will be advertised in our program that, approximately, 1200 people will view. 

 

You could also click on the upper right corner and make a $5 donation!

Please contact us and help us get the funding we need!

Andrea

unitedwd@gmail.com

(801) 834-2422