We are looking for dancers from all backgrounds and training. We want to see what talent URI is hiding!

For more information, email coach Melanie Morin at melmorin708@msn.com or the manager, Marisa Vincent, at mlv25@cox.net.

The Ramettes perform at all the URI Men's Basketball games in the new Ryan Center. They provide half-time entertainment as well as spirit during the games with their unique style that is a blend of jazz, hip-hop and funk routines!

If you love to dance and you are looking for a way to show your talent and spirit while being a member of a fun and enthusiastic team, then come check out the fall tryouts.

TRYOUT INFORMATION

Auditions for the 2008-09 Ramettes will take place on Wednesday, September 10th and Thursday September 11th. Both sessions will be held at Keaney Gymnasium from 7pm-10pm. Participants must attend both sessions. Watch for announcements on GoRhody.com for more information.

Candidates must be matriculating students at the University of Rhode Island and/or accepted incoming freshmen. If a freshman is trying out before their first semester, they must be able to show proof of certified acceptance (and admission) to attend URI in the following semester. Students who have admission pending to the University are not permitted to audition for the Ramettes.

Tryouts consist of two categories: practice (choreography) and auditions. During the first night of the tryout, there is a two-hour practice or choreography session. At this time the dancers are taught a routine that is approximately one minute in length. This dance is a reflection of the overall style that the Ramettes project, which includes, but is not limited to, jazz, hip-hop, pom, and traditional kickline style. The tryout routine incorporates any combination of these styles. The routine is taught by the coach/choreographer as well as assistant dancers in large group instruction.

It is recommended that the dancers wear comfortable dancewear and shoes on the night/day of practice (choreography), as they will be dancing for a few hours. If dance sneakers and/or jazz shoes are available, they are recommended for turning and moving with the greatest ease on the gym floor.

The second night (or second part of the day in a one-day tryout session) is the audition. Each person auditions the learned piece of choreography in front of a panel of judges. The dancers audition in pairs that are selected by number, randomly. Drills such as turns, kicks and leaps are also a part of the audition and are performed separate and apart from the dance piece. A double pirouette is a common turn drill during auditions as well as straight kicks (alternating legs).

Attire for the audition is more formal than the practice, but still dancewear that is easy to move in and comfortable for the performer. Since the audition is used to assess movement and expression from an arena perspective, it is recommended that dancers wear makeup to accentuate their facial features and have their hair off of their face so the judges can see the facial expressions.

Dancers are judged on personality (stage presence and projection), execution of the routine (technique and accuracy) and presentation (poise, how the dancer carries themself).

If a dancer has been chosen for the team, they will be called on the phone within a specified time frame immediately following the audition.

If you have any questions regarding Ramette tryouts, please email coach Melanie Morin at melmorin708@msn.com or the manager, Marisa Vincent, at mlv25@cox.net.