Dance is an under-developed form of social activism, says communications professor Garth Rennie, but he is hoping to change that.

More than 100 of his students in classes on media aesthetics, podcasting and internet media will display their hand-made dance apparel and documentary media in an exhibition Friday, March 28, at Common Ground gallery.

Dr. Rennie defines dance activists as “those using dance to transform culture around the world.” He challenged his students to design T-shirts, tank tops or hoodies that could be used to spread messages on a dance floor.

“It seems to me dance activism hasn't actually been fully articulated as a form of activism,” he says. “I would like to link the initiative to work in other disciplines, from visual arts to drama, from women’s studies to political science.”

He expects the exhibit to encompass 50 student creations. A free public reception runs 7 to 10 p.m. Common Ground is located in the Mackenzie Hall Cultural Centre, 3277 Sandwich Street.