🎭 The Must-See Performance Groups at UC Davis: Music, Dance, Comedy & More 🎭
Hey Aggies! For this week, I wanted to spotlight some of the amazing talent that we have on campus. Here is a guide to just some of the incredible student run groups on campus that are worth going to watch (or even perform in)!
UC Davis isn’t just about labs, lectures, and late-night study sessions—it’s also home to some seriously talented student performers. Whether you're into jazz, K-pop, improv comedy, or orchestral video game soundtracks, there’s a group here doing it live—and often for free or student-discounted prices.
Here’s your guide to the best musical, dance, and performing arts groups to watch at UC Davis.
🎻 UC Davis Symphony Orchestra (UCDSO)
Genre: Classical music
Where to see them: Mondavi Center
One of the oldest and most prestigious ensembles on campus, the Symphony Orchestra performs major classical works each quarter. Expect everything from Beethoven to contemporary compositions, performed with polish and passion.
🎟️ Student tip: Get discounted tickets and check for free rehearsals open to the public at the Mondavi Center. Each student receives one free ticket over the course of their time at UCD!
💗 The Spokes (All-Female A Cappella)
Genre: Vocal pop, indie, a cappella
Where to see them: Campus showcases, YouTube, and their signature spring event
The Spokes bring energy, sisterhood, and killer harmonies. Their annual event, Lip Sync for Lymphoma, is one of the most anticipated student-run performances of the year.
🔗 Website
🕺 MK Modern
Genre: Urban dance / hip-hop choreography
Where to see them: Campus showcases, competitions, YouTube
Known for clean lines and dynamic movement, MK Modern is UC Davis’s top-tier competitive hip-hop team. Their performances are high-energy and highly choreographed—perfect for fans of groups like The Kinjaz or 1Million Dance Studio.
🎮 Video Game Orchestra at UC Davis
Genre: Orchestral video game music
Where to see them: Concerts (usually on or near campus), pop up events
Yes, this is real—and yes, it’s awesome. The Video Game Orchestra performs full orchestral arrangements of music from games like Zelda, Final Fantasy, and Undertale. It’s a must-see for gamers and music lovers alike.
👠 Rocky Horror Picture Show Club
Genre: Cult musical theater, shadow-cast performance
Where to see them: Special screenings on or near campus
If you’re into outrageous outfits, lip-syncing, and throwing toast at the screen (yes, really), the Rocky Horror Club is your kind of weird. This student-run group performs full shadow-cast productions of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, acting it out live as the film plays behind them. It’s part theater, part cosplay, and all chaotic fun.
🖤 Expect audience participation, campy vibes, and lots of fishnets.
🔗 Check their Instagram or Aggie Life for show dates
💃 UC Davis Dance Team
Genre: Jazz, pom, hip-hop
Where to see them: Aggie sports games, national competitions, team showcase
The official spirit squad of UC Davis, this team does more than just perform at games—they compete nationally and regularly host showcases that highlight technical and synchronized dance.
🎭 Studio 301 Productions
Genre: Theater, student-written plays, musicals
Where to see them: Wright Hall and other campus spaces
This student-run theater company produces everything from contemporary plays to quirky original musicals. It’s a great place to see raw, authentic student voices brought to life on stage.
🎷 UC Davis Jazz Combos
Genre: Jazz
Where to see them: Pitzer Center, local events
UC Davis has multiple student jazz combos that perform everything from bebop to modern jazz. If you’re looking for chill vibes and musical improvisation, this is your scene.
😂 Birdstrike Improv Team
Genre: Comedy, theater, improv
Where to see them: MU and other campus venues
This team’s motto might as well be: "No script? No problem." Birdstrike is known for their spontaneous comedy, big characters, and crowd interaction. Every show is different—and hilarious.
💥 SoNE1 (K-pop Dance Team)
Genre: K-pop dance covers
Where to see them: Campus showcases, YouTube
SoNE1 (read: “Someone”) is UC Davis’s premier K-pop dance cover group. Known for their precision, stage presence, and fan-favorite routines, their sets are a highlight at events like Davis Dance Revolution and cultural nights.
Tips for Getting Involved in these Groups
- Watch a performance to gauge if the group is a fit for you
- Email officers or board members about auditioning
- AggieLife has officer emails listed if it’s a club!
- Many groups have large audition calls in Fall quarter, but some audition throughout the year
- Prepare your audition ahead of time, but don’t stress!
- Follow social medias for updates and to connect with group members
🗓️ How to Find Out About Upcoming Shows
Staying in the loop is easy if you know where to look:
- 🎟️ Mondavi Center Events
- 🎭 Aggie Life Event Calendar
- 📌 Posters on the MU, Art Annex, and Music Building bulletin boards
- 📱 Follow your favorite groups on Instagram for updates
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re into classical music or choreographed K-pop, the UC Davis arts scene has something for you. Attending a performance is a great way to support fellow students, unwind after a tough week, or even discover your next passion. So grab a friend, find a seat, and enjoy the show—Aggie style.