This week, the SA Government is showcasing the wonderful Ballet Performance Group (BPG), which brings the joy of dance to both spectators and performers at the UofR. Here’s our interview with BPG’s President, Marisa Straub.

Scott Lucchini performing at BPG Presents: Shake it Out - Courtesy of http://www.facebook.com/BalletPerformanceGroup

1. How large is your dance group?

“Roughly 101 members. We are the largest dance group on campus!”

2. Tell me a little bit about the structure about BPG

“BPG is structured in a way where members can be as involved in the group as they want to be. There is only one mandatory part to BPG, which is attending a 45 minute ballet class each Sunday. Beyond that, members can be involved in as many student choreographed pieces they wish to be a part of. BPG appeals to very well rounded individuals on campus and has extremely dedicated members each year.”

3. What is your favorite memory from BPG?

“My favorite memory from BPG is a very difficult question. I’ve now been part of BPG for almost 4 years and will continue on next year as I am staying as a KEY student. So my journey through this group has many memories. Some of my favorite memories always involve dancing in some way. One tradition that I love each year that I could consider my favorite is a “pump up” circle we do before each show. It’s this crazy energetic circle where everyone can go in the middle with their friends and do the most ridiculous dance moves they can think of from past BPG dances or something they just love. It’s a great start to our show, and overall just a fun piece of BPG.”

Aly Grealish 16' (front) and others performing at BPG Presents: Shake it Out - Courtesy of http://www.facebook.com/BalletPerformanceGroup

4. What makes BPG different from other performing art groups on campus?

“What makes BPG different from other dance groups is probably the variety in styles of dance we offer at all levels. Joining the Ballet Performance Group, members will not only explore ballet. Students can learn jazz, tap, hip-hop, west african, contemporary, modern, and so much more. BPG offers a wide variety of styles at different levels from beginner to advanced. There is a place for every member in our dances.”

5. What events does BPG have coming up?

“The spring show, BPG Presents: Clarity, will be held on April 12th, 2013 at 7 pm. BPG is very excited for the spring production, and hopes that the attendance will continue to rise.”

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Sweet Creations: Gingerbread House Display George Eastman House
Price: $6 for students
Times: 10 am- 5 pm Tuesday – Sat, 10-8 Thursdays 1-5 on Sunday
When: Until December 12^th

Directions: Take the Orange line to East & Barrington, which will drop you off right next to the George Eastman House.

Come view a fantastic display of gingerbread houses though the historic George Eastman house. The display features designs and gingerbread house artwork from professional bakers, families, and community members who each add a unique flair to the different houses. All proceeds will be going towards restoring the George Eastman house.

Holidays at the Market
Price: FREE
Times: 9 am to 3 pm
When: December 9 & 16

Directions: Take the Orange or Red line to the Eastman School of Music, walk down three block to Union Street. The market is located at 280 North Union Streets.

Enjoy the holiday spirit, and the 107-year old Public Market where you will find an abundance of art, crafts, decorations, holiday food delicacies, gift items, stocking stuffers, and festive items galore. Prepare to be overwhelmed with the scent of cinnamon and pine, and get into the holiday spirit.

Manhattan Square Park and Ice Rink
Price: $5
Times: Monday-Friday 1:50- 3:20 pm; Saturday & Sunday: Noon- 7 PM
When: Through March 16^th, 2013

Directions: Take the Orange line to East and Alexander, and walked down East Avenue to East Broad Street. The address is 53 Court St. 14607.

Even if you’ve already been to the Manhattan Square Park and Ice Rink, this year the rink has been renovated and is better than ever. The rink features a heated floor and fireplace, offers new rental skates and a new sound and light system, and is now 30 percent larger.  If you are in Rochester for New Years day, there is free admission! Keep warm and embrace the winter spirit by putting on a pair of skates.

Joe Bean Coffee Roasters
Price: $5- $15
Times: Monday 8 am- 6 pm; Tuesday-Saturday 8 am-10 pm; Sunday 9 am- 5 pm

Directions: Take the Orange line to East and Culver and walk up Culver towards University Avenue. The address is 1344 University Avenue.

As the temperature begins to drop and our fingers begin to freeze we’re all in the mood for a delicious hot coffee. Joe Bean Coffee Roasters understands the craft of roastery and serves artisan brewed coffee, craft beer, select wines, and artisan foods. The coffee beans are hand selected from a group of farmers in Nicaragua, and the coffee is roasted daily in the back room roaster. Even for those of you who are not coffee connoisseurs, you’ll be impressed with the passion and excitement that the employees of Joe Bean Coffee Roasters have, and will be persuaded to try all the exotic flavors.

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What is SAVVY?
SAVVY, or the Student Association of Vegan and Vegetarian Youth, is composed of an enthusiastic group of diverse students interested in a vegan/vegetarian lifestyle. Established over a decade ago, SAVVY prides itself for being the first and only vegan club on campus. The club works closely with dining services and the Rochester community to provide an open and warm outlet for students to learn about vegetarianism and veganism. SAVVY goes beyond simply veganism/vegetarianism, promoting a healthier more sustainable lifestyle.

Why should students join SAVVY?
For the majority of college students, eating is a mindless habit, to which we dedicate little thought. SAVVY focuses on teaching students about the foods they consume, where these food come from, and how to improve their diets. SAVVY welcomes all individuals and consists of a diverse member population, everyone from hardcore vegans to omnivores.

When does SAVVY meet?
Every Thursday at 6:30 on the second floor of ITS.

What events is SAVVY responsible for?
SAVVY sponsors meatless Mondays every week. Recently the group hosted a movie screening of Knives and Forks. Just this past month they held their annual “Vegan Challenge.” (A huge success, with over 184 participants.) The group is teaming up with the Gandhi Institute this Thanksgiving Weekend to host a wilderness trek.

What philosophy is SAVVY trying to promote?
SAVVY hopes to promote a philosophy of openness and acceptance. One of the several challenges SAVVY faces is the common misconception that portrays the organization as a special interest designed to convert the student body. The club’s purpose is not to convert students to a vegan or vegetarian diet. Instead, SAVVY hopes to raise awareness about vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. The organization has made enormous progress in the past ten years towards creating an open environment that is accepting of vegetarianism. However, close-mindedness towards the group still exists. Members of SAVVY are often questioned about their choice to live a meatless lifestyle or follow a meatless diet. For example, members are often approached with the question, “Where do you get your protein from?” This year and in years to come, SAVVY hopes to correct these misconceptions and foster awareness across the University campus.

What would you like to say to someone who wants to try becoming vegetarian/vegan but isn’t quite sure?
Converting to veganism/vegitarianism is different for everyone. Some may prefer a “cold turkey” approach while others choose to take a gradual approach by alternating meat and no-meat days. SAVVY members warn that at first the process can be difficult. Often it takes upwards of three weeks for students to alter their eating habits. It often helps to use the buddy system — doing it with a friend can provide the support necessary to live a meat-free diet.

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Deciding what to do for Halloween?
Gather some friends and head to Nightmare Manor for quite the fright! Over the course of this quarter mile, hour-long tour, you’ll walk through Dr. Limon’s Manor, Reapers Rage Cemetery, and the Grinder Asylum of Nightmares. The venue prides itself for being both fun and scary, and was recently voted #1 in Rochester’s Best & Scariest Attractions.

Worried about how to get there?
Take the Green Line on a Saturday night! Simply get off at the fifth stop by Wegmans and walk along Jefferson Road until you reach the Southtown Plaza. You’ll be greeted by sounds of goblins and jack-o-lanterns.

Wondering how much you have to pay?
Tickets are $15 each for college students and additional discounts can be made for groups of 15 or more when you call 585.455.9781. For $24, you can experience Nightmare Manor as well as its sister attraction, Haunted Hayride.

Curious about when you can go?
Nightmare Manor is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. and also Thursdays and Sundays from 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.  To avoid long lines, it’s recommended to go as early as possible or to purchase an RIP speed pass from a local Wegmans.

For more information, check out their website.
Also, click here for a coupon good for $1 off admission at the door!

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What is Raas?
Raas is a traditional form of folk dance that originated in the state of Gujurat, in western India. The dance is typically done for religious and cultural celebrations in the community, and the UR Raas team puts a contemporary and performance spin on it. The team includes 16 dancers (8 boys, 8 girls) that dance on stage at one time twirling dandiya (sticks), doing fast paced footwork, and moving in complex formations. The team dances to traditional Gujurati Raas and Garba music, some of which is devotional, and some of which is flirty and fun. The dance form is very graceful, yet powerful at the same time.

What events does Raas have coming up?
The team has been accepted into and will be attending two upcoming competitions. In addition, the UR Raas team is organizing a school/community-wide “garba” event on October 21st during the religious holiday “Navratri” to try and get other people interested in our form of dance, as well as celebrate this cultural occasion. The team will also have a number of campus performances scattered throughout the semester.

What makes the UofR Raas team unique?
The UR Raas team are much more diverse than other collegiate Raas teams. Other Raas teams have mostly Indian (or just Gujurati) people, but our campus team has an equal ratio of Indian people to non-Indian people. Each teammate brings a wonderful flavor to the team, and the team learns so much from each other.

What is the typical practice schedule for a Raas member?
Practices are typically on Tuesday from 9-11, Friday from 5-7, and Sunday from 2:30-5:30. During competition season, practices can range from every other day of the week to every day. The team aims for perfection.

What is the most rewarding part of being in Raas?
“Having a family environment that I know I can go back to all the time. The Raas team is especially close because we spend so much time together, and we are all great friends.”- Captain Rohini Rege

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Looking for something to break up that pre-finals stress?
Head over to The Strong National Museum of Play! As the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to play, the collection includes hands on exhibits as well as a butterfly garden and the National Toy Hall of Fame. With exhibitions on subjects ranging from The Wizard of Oz to Monopoly accompanying a child-sized supermarket, there’s something for the kid in everyone to enjoy.

What new exhibitions have opened at the Museum of Play this year?
Strong’s eGame Revolution exhibit opened earlier this academic year. Aimed at showcasing the history of electronic games, visitors get to play old favorites and modern takes on classic games. The exhibit also allows you to play life-sized video games while learning about the obstacles and advantages to the gaming revolution.

What times and days is the museum open?
The Strong National Museum of Play is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 5pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 8pm, and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm. Regular tickets for the exhibits are $13 each. Looking for a better deal? College students with a valid ID receive two-for-one admission. If you wanted to check out the museum on your own, stopping by between 3pm and 5pm Monday through Thursday will decrease the admission price to only $8.

How can I get to The Strong Museum of Play?
Take the Red Line! Getting off at The Eastman School of Music (stop #11) puts you only 10 minutes away from The Strong Museum of Play. Once at Eastman, walk along Broadway St to Manhattan Square Drive. The Strong Museum of Play will be immediately in front of you. The Red Line schedule is available on the UR Campus Shuttle Webpage (PDF).

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What is GlobeMed?

GlobeMed is a national network of college students that foster a relationship and support a particular area of need in the world.  The University of Rochester chapter of GlobeMed was approved for final SA Recognition earlier this academic year and has been thriving ever since.  The group has partnered with the Peruvian aid organization Kallpa Iquitos to help provide resources in Iquitos, Peru.  In addition, GlobeMed seeks to raise awareness of global issues on campus through various programs and events throughout the year.  Each weekly meeting focuses on current global health issues and allows members to learn while brainstorming for fundraisers and events.

What events does GlobeMed have coming up?

This Sunday (4/15), GlobeMed has organized Corre con Kallpa.  This 5k run begins at the Genesee Valley Park Round House at 10am.  Registration is $15 up until the day of the race, when it increases to $22 with all proceeds going to Kallpa Iquitos.  Groups of 5 or more runners can register for only $15 per runner.  A bonus: the first 100 registrants will receive a free reusable water bottle!  Registration can either be done this week in Wilson Commons with flex or online at http://medvedrunwalk.com/.

How can I get involved with GlobeMed

Even though membership applications won’t be available until the fall, interested members can like the GlobeMed Facebook page or sign up for their mailing list on the CCC.

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What’s going on in the area?

Head out and experience Jersey Boys!  Having been loved by over 12 million theatergoers worldwide, the Tony and Grammy winning musical is coming to Rochester.  Follow Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons members Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi as they grow from blue collar workers to international pop sensations.  Learn the stories behind songs like “Big Girls Don’t Cry” and “December 1963 (Oh What a Night)”.

When can I go see Jersey Boys?

The show is running from April 3^rd to April 29^th at the Rochester Broadway Theater League with the following schedule:

• Tuesday-Thursday » 7:30pm
• Friday » 8:00pm
• Saturday » 2:00pm and 8:00pm
• Sunday » 2:00pm and 7:00pm

How much are tickets and where can I get them?

Tickets start at $29.50 and are available on ticketmaster.com or directly from the box office.  To buy tickets directly, you can head to 885 East Main Street or call (585) 222-5000.  Be careful though: purchasing online or over the phone will result in a service fee.

How can I get to the theater or box office?

Take the Red Line!  From ITS, take the bus to the Memorial Art Gallery Stop and walk one block to East Main Street.  A complete schedule of bus times can be found at http://www.rochester.edu/parking/assets/pdf/RedlineSpring2012.pdf.  A bonus?  The trip takes only about 15 minutes!

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What can I do in Rochester this time of year?

Loving the warm weather? Check out the Seneca Park Zoo! With special exhibitions and over 70 different species with permanent residences, the Seneca Park Zoo has something for everyone to enjoy. The best part: it’s only 20 minutes from campus!

When can I go to the zoo?

The zoo is open daily from 10am to 4pm, with admission gates closing at 3pm daily. Admission to the grounds costs only $8.

How can I get to the Zoo?

Rent a zipcar! Zipcars are available for student use by reservation on the zipcar website. Once you’ve got a car, head towards 2222 St. Paul Street in Rochester, NY. For specific directions, check out the Zoo’s website

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What is Active Minds?
Active Minds is a club focused on changing the way people talk and think about mental health. They work to increase mental wellness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness on campus. Meetings are discussion based and tend to focus on both serious and lighthearted topics. Previous discussions have included diversity, the colloquial use of mental health terminology, and dream analysis.

What events does Active Minds have coming up?
On March 29th, Active Minds will be continuing its Film Series with a free screening of the movie Charlie Bartlett. An expert panel discussion will follow the film presentation. On April 26th, Active Minds is hosting “heart of Disorder”, an art show that uses artistic expression to demonstrate individual experiences with mental illness. Artistic styles will include monologues, paintings, and dance performances.

How can I get involved in Active Minds?
Active Minds meets every Tuesday at 8pm in Meliora 219. You can also join their mailing list by visiting their page on the Campus Club Connection.

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