While she spends most of her time behind the scenes, ATPAM Manager Catherine Guiher now finds herself enjoying the spotlight as a dancer for the NY Liberty’s over-40 dance team, the Timeless Torches. We sat down with Catherine to find out how she became involved with the troupe, and what it takes to be a member.
How did you get involved?
I’ve been a season subscriber to the NY Liberty since the beginning of the WNBA, so I knew the Timeless Torches from seeing them perform at the games. They sent an email blast to all season ticket holders announcing auditions, so I went and didn’t get cast. A few years later, I auditioned again and got the job.
What was/is the audition process like?
Typical dance audition — you sign in and get a number, are taught a combination and then perform it in small groups. You have to re-audition every year.
How often do you perform? Rehearse?
We perform at half the NY Liberty home games, plus whatever Knicks, NBA and USA Basketball games we are invited to perform at. As employees of Madison Square Garden, we may dance at any basketball game held there. We also do promotional appearances.
Have you gotten to know any of the players?
Fraternization is against the rules of our contract, but the NY Liberty players know us the best and vice versa.
What do you enjoy most about the experience?
Performing for 20,000 people who are screaming with enthusiasm can’t be beat. A highlight was dancing at both the NBA All-Stars Celebrity Game and NBA All-Stars Game (video link below) at Madison Square Garden in February 2015.
Timeless Torches with Carmelo Anthony. Catherine pictured in the back.
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