HAMPTON, Va. (WVEC) — History is being made at Hampton University this year.
Practicing at Armstrong Stadium Thursday, it’s something the school hasn’t seen in more than three decades.
“The majorettes came back to Hampton University,” said squad director Anya J. Holland.
She’s talking about the Shimmering Safire Elegance Majorettes, a group of dancers that twirls batons and ribbons alongside the Marching Force Band.
“In the 1950s women were not allowed to be drum majors so they created majorettes,” said Holland.
Holland was brought on board to bring the excitement of the squad back to the school and the band’s performance.
They have to start small- just two ladies lead the squad of majorettes. That’s Freshmen Dallas Thompson and Zaria Grant.
“I’m always nervous,” said Thompson. “If I’m not nervous then it’s a problem.”
“We’re up in the front,” said Grant. “First ones to come in when we march in.”
The goal is to expand the squad to 8 or ten people in the next couple of years.
“Move on with even more baton tricks….we’re ready,” said Holland.
It’s a lost art getting new looks at Hampton University.
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