The Asylum Dance Club is trying to get back to its roots this semester by bringing diverse acts to the University.

According to Julia Glover, a graduate student serving in an advisory capacity for the Asylum during the format change, Asylum's purpose is "to find out what students want and provide it."

Glover said the Asylum, located in the HUB ballroom, intended to have "a non-alcoholic nightclub atmosphere," and to bring in acts ranging from bands to comedy competitions. However, the club has consistently showcased alternative bands from State College, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, and the club's purpose as set forth by the administration at Old Main was not being fulfilled, she said.

Asylum President Dan Burns said there were two reasons for revamping the format.

"One was lack of attendance to strictly alternative shows. Also, upper management of the HUB felt that Asylum wasn't achieving its original purpose," he said.

He said the Asylum wants to provide acts that University students don't see every day. "We want the chance to provide acts that wouldn't normally be seen in the State College area," he said.

Due to the Asylum's non-alcoholic emphasis, Burns said Asylum will try to "get the club atmosphere for those who can't go to the clubs."

During the format change, Asylum is working closely with the Student Union Board and recruiting new members. "We're not going to limit ourselves to saying 'what band are we going to bring in this week?' " Burns said.

Two big events highlighting the new format are coming up in March: a free performance by the New York City Swing Band and a comedy competition.

Of the New York City Swing Band, Glover said,"They're not your normal Glenn Miller Band, they're really high energy." The band is indicative of the Asylum's desire to show more variety.

The comedy competition will spotlight about ten University students, who will each perform a three-minute comedy routine. The winner of the University competition will go on to a national competition.