It’s that time of year again—let the Madness begin!
March Madness is an annual dance competition held at Illinois State University during the spring semester. This philanthropic event—scheduled for April 6 at Redbird Arena—is hosted by Chi Omega, a social sorority on campus, in support of the Make-a-Wish Foundation.
Sororities from the PanHellenic Council and fraternities from the Interfraternity Council participate as dance teams, helping the dance competition raise thousands of dollars along with awareness of the Make-a-Wish Foundation’s mission.
This will be the 43rd year of the event with sororities and fraternities from all Greek councils coming out to support this event to show Greek unity.
How does it all work?
To learn a little more about this event, we sat down with Alpha Omicron Pi member Ashley Dusa. Here’s the inside scoop:
Q: What is the goal of March Madness?
A: The goal of March Madness is to come together as a Greek community and support Chi Omega’s philanthropy event that raises money for the Make-A-Wish foundation. This time spent together helps to build relationships within chapters while dancing for a great cause.
Q: When do teams start preparing for March Madness?
A: Teams begin preparing for March Madness in January, sometimes before. Specifically, with Alpha Omicron Pi (AOII), we begin practicing in January as soon as the second semester begins.
Q: How much money was raised last year?
A: The total amount raised last year has not been publicized yet. In 2017 we were able to raise $50,000, which was great!
Q: What is required of teams that participate?
A: Depending on the chapter, many teams meet multiple times each week for two to three hours each practice. Each member is expected to try their hardest and learn the routines that their dance coordinators create. Typically, Chi Omega assigns a theme for March Madness. For example, last year’s theme was “Night at the Cinema.” From the theme, they designate each chapter a celebrity, song, or character that follows the theme.
Q: How is the winner determined?
A: The winners are determined by a panel of judges. Winners are selected for their technique, energy, and togetherness.
Tickets and more information about the event are available online.
