One sorority and one fraternity walked across Webster University’s Community Music School stage with smiles as they received a plaque for “Best Step Team” at the second annual Break the Stage event hosted by Webster’s Gospel Choir on March 22.
The Alpha Rho chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Incorporated are now the returning step show champions. The Alpha Omega City Wide Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated also shared Webster’s winning stage for the best in sorority step.
Returning champions Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Incorporated drove in from Illinois State University to regain their title.
Video by Natalie Martinez
“It feels good to win two times in a row. We’re making history,” said a team member of Alpha Rho chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Incorporated.
The women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated practiced for a month on their performance — a tribute to Janet Jackson.
“It was mostly about coming in giving it our best material and leaving everything on the stage,” said Annyce Echols, member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.
Four judges who evaluated teams based on several categories such as structure, uniform and vocal performance.
“It was very nice it took me back to my college years,” said Rachel White, judge. “The ones that won utilized a lot of their time and we could hear them clearly it was very good.”
Steward Stiles III, president of Gospel Choir, said there is a need for Greek diversity on Webster’s campus. He said he wanted the Gospel Choir to bring more than solely music to Webster.
“The point of stepping is the tradition,” said Stiles. “It has been passed down through African American Greek fraternities and sororities as their way of expression.”
All participating fraternities and sororities received a stipend of 200 dollars. Stiles added it gives back to the groups for their service as it equalizes the playing field.
“I’m really excited and pleased with the result,” said Stiles. “I’m doing this again next year until hopefully I graduate and someone will be able to take the torch and do it again.”
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