Fusion Dhamaka, Suffolk’s Bollywood fusion dance team, held their annual Fusion Fest on Nov. 15 in Sargent Hall. An annual event that combines culture, inclusivity, and community in a spectacular display of song and dance. Attendees were treated to an array of performances showcasing various cultural dance routines, captivating audiences with their energy and artistry.
The event offered catering and drinks, as well as, beautiful decorations that created a relaxing environment for spectators to watch the performers show off their carefully practiced skills. As the room filled with spectators and the lights dimmed, anticipation for the show grew.
Damini Singh, former president, captain and Fusion Dhamaka alumni hosted the event, introducing each group with enthusiasm.
“We have some wonderfully talented people here tonight,” said Singh.
Fusion Dhamaka opened the event with a vibrant group number that stirred up excitement and enthusiasm in the audience. The music was a beautiful blend of culture and modernity, going hand in hand with the group’s lively dance routine. Almost every move was met with a thunderous applause.
Next up to showcase their talents was Pearls of Africa, an African dance team affiliated with Suffolk’s African Student Association. Almost as soon as the music began, the group elicited a fiery reaction from the crowd, filling the room with cheers and applause. The excitement only grew when the dancers brought themselves off the stage and onto the floor, interacting with the audience and building the elation.
Next was a performance by Soulfully Versed, a coed a cappella group with hints of soul. The group shocked the crowd with a performance of Micheal Jackson’s “Remember The Time.” With their blending of impressive vocals and musical harmony, it brought down the heat from the dances while keeping the energy and attention high.
After a 15-minute intermission, Fusion Dhamaka returned with another number, this time a trio performance by the group’s captains. Senior Rusali Rajbhandari, president and captain of Fusion Dhamaka stunned the audience alongside co-captains Celina Bitar and Stuti Adhikari, each dancing with rhythm and individualized style.
The event ended as vibrantly as it began, with Pasión Latina, Suffolk’s Latin dance team, bringing the audience in for one final act. The group stunned with an energetic co-ed partner dance, as well as female-led segments that lit up the room and kept the audience hooked through the end.
The event created an atmosphere of cultural celebration and acceptance, bringing people together to enjoy themselves and connect with those around them.
Fusion Dhamaka will host a mock Shaadi in the spring. The event will feature a fake wedding celebration which honors South Asian culture and features dancing and appreciation of rich and colorful cultures.
Rajbhandari emphasized the importance of bringing diversity and culture into the campus.
“We strive to bring culture and flavor to Suffolk through the form of dance,” said Rajbhandari. “It brings exposure and awareness so people are more accepting of different cultures.”
