step shows

[etienneSAI]

hey everyone!

i've heard so much about step-shows on these boards and have NO idea what they are! could someone explain to me what a step show is and how they differ between greek oraganizations? thanks!

etienneSAI
sigma alpha iota-the hartt school of music

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"red is the color of music and has been since the very earliest of times. the caps of faeries and musicians are well-nigh always red."~*~w.b.yeats

"I think that happiness is when you can let yourself feel every emotion you want at any time instead of being a lying little fuck." - Tori Amos

[ZetaAce]

EtienneSAI- For a brief history of stepping, you should check out:
http://3n1promo.com/temple/step.htmlThe

There is some good information there about the history of stepping.

ZetaAce

[pinkice9]

Well I can't explain it for other greek organizations just BGLO's. A stepshow is a chance to show off your organizations chants and founder steps. It usually takes place during the homecoming weekend at your school. Each organization may or may not be represented. It is basically a competition for bragging rights, money, and respect.

Your org. may have on outfits with your colors along with props for the stage to add an atmosphere. There is usually a time limit to your performance and at the end your are judged by performance, uniqueness, poise, and orginality.

I hope this helped you understand a little about step shows and why they are so popularly talked about.

Pinkice

[The Negotiator]

The history of stepping stems from african tradition. For example the purpose of the probate is to announce to the world your crossing over into greek-life. It is also to display that your journey is complete.
It is parallel to those African traditions when the village (or the masses) gathers in a neutral place to exhibit a boy's crossing over into manhood.

I hope that I have helped.

[icytre]

I guess you could say that. We just add to the tradition. We also make up our own steps and chants. In my neck of the woods (Arkansas), stepshows are a good way to earn you chapter $100-$2000, so competition is very high. The steps are very difficult and incorporate dancing, storylines, and even props. Very entertaining, and it is a good way to show how creative your organization/chapter can be.

This year, NPHC, NPC, AND IFC all participated in an all Greek Stepshow. It was very successful show that gave us a chance to get to know different organizations and work for a common goal, stepping. We came in second, and we (Alpha Phi Alpha) were paired with Alpha Sigma Tau. (good group of girls!)

[etienneSAI]

so did your founders create these steps and you follow them, as they were passed down from the founders to each chapter??

etienne

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"red is the color of music and has been since the very earliest of times. the caps of faeries and musicians are well-nigh always red."~*~w.b.yeats

"I think that happiness is when you can let yourself feel every emotion you want at any time instead of being a lying little fuck." - Tori Amos

[equeen]

I'm really enjoying this thread! I've never been to a step show, however now that I've learned a bit about them, I think I'll go to not just to enjoy, but to appreciate.

icytre, I think it's cool that NPC and IFC GLOs participated as well...how'd that work out (in terms of learning/practicing etc), considering that stepping is not a part of the GLO tradition? I'm also curious, how can a step-show be a fundraiser, is it ticket sales, or is there a prize for best show??

Any Sooners out there? If so, please let me know when there are step shows going on at OU (or in the OKC area). I look forward to it!!

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equeen
A Lioness has her Pride!
@>--;--
Alpha Sigma Kappa - Women in Technical Studies

[9 Pearls]

"Stepping" is a series of steps, claps movements usually done in sync with other members of your Frat/sorority. Chants are usually done along with them. A step show is usually a show of more than one group stepping. It takes a lot of rehearsal and technique for a good show. It can be used as a fundraiser because if tickets are sold usually the house is full. Sometimes there are prizes that go to the best stepper. One Alumnae chapter of my sorority sponsors a annual step show for all of the NPHC members and we use the money for $1000 scholarships for high school senior girls in our community.

[equeen]

For those who are interested, the annual step show at OU is in mid-April. I think the next one will be either April 16 or 18th, 2001. I'm looking forward to it! Thanks, everyone, for the background information.

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equeen
A Lioness has her Pride!
@>--;--
Alpha Sigma Kappa - Women in Technical Studies