In a dancer’s world, life is both passionate and chaotic. The dance program here at CSU focuses on various techniques in ballet and modern dance, as well as teaching and choreography.
CSU’s University Center of the Arts molds students to become dedicated performers, and no one is more committed than dance major Bailey Ostdiek.
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For the graduating senior, the feelings for being on stage are indescribable. Dance has been her passion since she was three years old. In a Q&A, Ostdiek shares her experiences and offers insight on CSU’s dance program.
1. When did you find your passion for dance?
I was first introduced to dance when I was taking a pre-ballet class. This was an unforgettable experience for me. I loved the structure, discipline and creativity of a ballet class. I immediately came home and begged my parents to enroll me in ballet. I was equally as inspired to dance when I saw the Nutcracker for the first time.
2. What/who has been the biggest influence on your decision to pursue dance?
After moving to Colorado when I was 12 years old, I enrolled at the International Ballet School in Littleton. The training was very serious there and it really pushed me to want to dance professionally.
I was surrounded constantly with incredibly talented people. Many went on to dance throughout the country, and even around the world. I didn’t end up auditioning for companies, like many of my peers. Instead I decided to further my training at CSU, before attempting to join the professional dance world.
3. Why did you choose Colorado State University?
What drew me to CSU was the talent of the pre-existing dance majors and the credentials of the faculty. Here at CSU, we get to dip our toes in everything and find out what we really want to do with our future.
4. What is life like being a dance major?
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Day in the life of a dance major is extremely hectic, especially mine with my last semester. On a typical weekday, I usually start my day around 8 a.m. and head to my academic lecture classes. Then, I rush to the UCA to teach a ballet class to non-dance majors.
Some days I have meetings for the productions I am part of, and I have ballet class and ballet repertory everyday. Ballet repertory is essentially a rehearsal time for learning famous ballet reps. I also have multiple rehearsals following class. So I usually end up dancing 8-9 hours a day, give or take.
5. What performances have you been in?
Since starting ballet, I have performed in Nutcrackers and various end-of-the-year performances. Since coming to CSU, I’ve been in every student dance concert, fall/spring faculty concert and senior dance concert.
6. What are some of your favorite classes/professors?
My favorite class at CSU would probably be ballet or ballet repertory with my professor Carol Roderick. I have always been a ballet junkie, but since coming to CSU and after taking it with professor Roderick, her knowledge and passion about ballet has truly inspired me.
She is the most incredible teacher I have ever had. I owe her a lot when it comes to my training and just the knowledge she has instilled in me and I could not thank her enough.
7. Do you have plans for after you graduate?
I am currently in a limbo right now, as I am sure many other seniors are. I auditioned for several companies this semester, and plan on continuing auditioning in hopes of landing a professional dancing job.
I’m also applying for adjunct teaching positions at universities. Teaching is a huge passion of mine. I hope to teach at a collegiate setting, or at a conservatory.
8. What are some memories you’ll take away after graduation?
CSU has given me so many opportunities. I have made incredible friends since coming here, and we have shared memories that I will cherish forever. I’m so glad to have attended CSU because of the amazing experiences.
Ostdiek’s next performance at the university will be the capstone for her major. Ostdiek and her fellow seniors are excited for their final performance. The concert is “InterLace,” and takes place on May 2nd and 3rd at the University Dance Theater. One thing is certain, the highly anticipated InterLace will have no lack of energy or passion.
Collegian Reporter Anna Groeling can be reached at entertainment@collegian.com.
