Penn State JaDhoom, the university’s only Bollywood fusion dance team, took home first place, a top prize of $3,000, and claimed its spot to perform on stage THON Weekend at the sixth annual THON Showcase.

The event allows student organizations, committees, and Independent Dancer Couples to show off their talents and compete for a chance to win money toward their organization’s THON fundraising total.

Sunday night’s showcase was judged by Lily Pevoto, THON’s executive director; April Komal, Penn State Homecoming’s executive director; Anna Sulecki, executive director of the Penn State Performing Arts Council, and representatives of KCF Technology, the event’s sponsor.

Across the evening, there were 13 different acts. Audience members saw performances from Urban Dance Troupe, Tapestry Dance Company, and several a capella groups, including Shades of Blue and Blue in the Face. At the end of the night, though, only five organizations could take home prizes.

Freshman Joe Downs hypnotized the crowd with his triple threat: playing the piano, playing the guitar, and his voice. He sang “Vienna” by Billy Joel while playing the piano, followed by a performance with his guitar of a song titled “Dreamer.” Downs represented a Dancer Relations committee and took home fifth place along with a $650 donation to his committee’s fundraising total.

A clear crowd favorite, Whiplash Dance Co., jumped into fourth place, earning an $850 donation. The all-women group danced to a mashup of songs from some of their favorite female performers — Beyonce, Nicki Minaj, Dua Lipa, Missy Elliott, and more.

Nicolette Cook also represented a Dancer Relations committee. She took the stage with just her guitar and a stool, but the crowd absolutely loved Cook’s rendition of “Valerie”. Cook was shocked to secure third place, which came with a $1,000 donation for her committee. We’ll be seeing her again on stage on THON Weekend!

Orchesis, Penn State’s oldest dance company, performed a contemporary dance to Mumford & Sons’ “There Will Be Time.” Its emotional performance secured second place for its members. Orchesis received a $2,000 donation and a slot to perform during THON Weekend.

Penn State JaDhoom is the campus’ only Bollywood fusion dance team. Founded in 2008, Penn State JaDhoom competes nationally on an intercollegiate level. The team led an energetic dance and took home the grand title of first place.

JaDhoom earned a $3,000 donation to its THON fundraising total and will have the opportunity to show off its unique skills in front of thousands on stage at THON.

We dance in 25!