BY MICHELLE HOFFNER

Mamaroneck High School is lucky enough to have a tremendous number of arts and performing arts groups. Some of these groups are entirely student run and directed and have performed at various school-wide events throughout the year. One of these groups, and one of MHS’ favorites, is Krazii Kr3w.

Krazii Kr3w is a hip-hop dance troupe that performs at school events including Pep Rally and the MLK assembly.

Allison Podolsky ‘12 and Sammy Gitlin ‘12 lead the group. Outside of school, both girls spend a lot of time dancing. Although the two captains have a lot of experience, many members of the team have limited training, thus Krazii Kr3w is an option for essentially anyone who loves to dance and is willing to work diligently to master a routine.

Megan Gerspach ’12 is new to Krazii Kr3w and preformed for the first time at this year’s Pep Rally. Gerspach spoke enthusiastically about her experience. “Aside from sweet 16s and The Mill, I have no dance experience,” she said. “But I found my rhythm in prepping for Pep Rally. Performing was the biggest adrenaline rush. KK is tough, but it is so worth the anticipated four minutes to let go and show everyone my sassy side.”

Rehearsals for the performance were intensive. The group practiced several times a week, both at lunch and after school in their advisor, Taryn Delaney’s, room. The dance was choreographed primarily by Podolsky, but the other girls played a significant role in the ultimate portrayal of the dance.

Both captains spoke excitedly about the final performance and were most thrilled about the style of dance that the group focused on. Podolsky said, “Hip hop is one of the few dance styles that you don’t have to start at age three to be good at. There are no high legs or jumps or turns, just performance, swagger and musicality.”

Auditions for Krazii Kr3w will happen again soon. If it sounds like something you’re interested in, Krazii Kr3w is definitely a great opportunity to get involved in at MHS. Remember, no formal dance training is required. But, as Gitlin adds, “attitude and confidence are essential.”