IUDM changes location, dance shifts for Nov. event

IU Dance Marathon will experience several changes this year.
For the first time, dancers will be allowed to dance for 19 hours rather than the previously required 36 hours.

Second, due to the fire at IUDM’s usual location at the School of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, IUDM will be at the IU Tennis Center.

“I think it’s a great opportunity to get more students involved,” said Kristen Munoz, senior and executive director of public relations for IUDM.

Megan Marshall, senior and vice president of internal affairs for IUDM, agreed.

“Our goal is to recruit probably 400 new dancers,” Marshall said.

On average, IUDM draws about 1,500 participants each year, Marshall said.
This year’s theme is “traditions” to mark the 21st anniversary of IUDM. The two leaders insist this year is still in line with the theme despite the changes.

“The purpose behind it is to stand for those who can’t,” Marshall said.
And that has not changed, she said.

The 50 students who raise the most money from each of eight groups will still have the option to dance for 36 hours.

This is to avoid having everyone dance for that amount of time.

“Most people came out saying it was worth it at the end, after a few days’ rest,” Munoz said.  

Marshall and Munoz also said they hope the changes will draw repeat dancers from year to year.

“Traditional dancing has become kind of a one-year experience,” Marshall said. “There’s no reason someone shouldn’t want to dance for four years now.”

Munoz agreed, saying students now can’t use the time commitment as an excuse not to participate.

“Now, why not join us?” she said.