Dance in higher education encompasses the philosophical, social, scientific and anthropological aspects of movement. These elements are intertwined into the functional and aesthetic/expressive components of dance. Understanding the importance of our bodily movement and nonverbal communication, whether in daily life, in the studio, or on the stage is vital to a positive life experience. It is the first source of understanding who we are which helps us to operate in society and embrace the diversity of other cultures in the world. The creative process is at the core of how a person can investigate and integrate other disciplines, the crux of a liberal arts education. The choices and risks a student must take in the technical training and choreographic process reinforce the act of accepting responsibility and establishing a unique and informed point of view.
A concentration in dance is suitable for any student who seeks creative, technical and intellectual challenges. Concentrators are expected to hold high academic standards, to attempt challenging artistic projects, and to create work which reflect individuality and potential. The dance faculty work closely with students both in rehearsals and in class which gives them the needed foundation to cultivate their creative potential and presence.
A variety of courses are offered to the concentrators which explore the historical, kinesiological, social, movement behavioral, and creative components of dance. The foundation of technique courses is taken from both western and non-western perspectives. These courses focus on understanding dance from an analytical and creative perspective involving problem solving, spontaneity, discipline and commitment. Concentrators develop an understanding of dance in relationship to the individual, everyday life, society and culture as well the demands and rewards of artistic work. Further specialization in performance and choreography is possible through a combination of coursework and independent study. Involvement in the various dance productions (student, faculty and guest artist works) as well as the American College Dance Festival held at a different college each year broadens and deepens students' awareness and skills beyond the classroom.
The 100 level courses (Intro. to Dance 102,103,104) are designed to introduce the beginning student to the role of dance in society while experiencing basic movement skills from western and non-western perspectives. Other electives for non-majors include Martial Arts and Dance (208) and Sound, Movement and Performance (180). All concentrators must take 4 semesters of technique as well as 200 level courses including movement analysis (203), history (201), and kinesiology (205). A minor in dance requires 2 semesters of technique and 3 courses selected from movement analysis (203), history (201), kinesiology (205), dance composition (305), and dance choreography (307).
While many concentrators choose to study dance further or perform professionally others utilize their understanding of the body and movement behavior to enrich their experience in whatever field they choose. It is our first source of understanding who we are which helps us to operate in society and live fuller lives.
102F Introduction to Dance Theory, Technique and Culture.
A survey of the various roles dance/movement play in life and culture. Lecture and lab are combined to include an introduction to kinesiology, movement behavior, choreography, improvisation, body music, dance ethnology and technique. A modern dance approach is emphasized that includes martial art/dance forms from West Africa, Haiti, Brazil, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, The Philippines and Japan.
Maximum enrollment, 20.
Walczyk.
[103]
Introduction to Dance as a Performance Medium and Healing Art.
An overview of dance as a performing art, its role in culture/communication and as a source of health and well being. Lectures, discussions and introduction to several dance/movement forms including contemporary, ballet, African-based jazz and various health-based movement techniques (yoga, Pilates, Bartenieff Fundamentals). Introduction to motif writing included.
Maximum enrollment, 20.
[104]
Introduction to Dance In Its Social and Theatrical Forms.
A survey of the evolution of dances from their folk/social manifestations into forms of classical status. Among the myriad examples, three will be highlighted: the development of the folk and court dances of the Renaissance and Baroque into classical ballet; the development of Kabuki from a sensual, "outlaw" theatre to a classical form in Japan; and the development of African-American social dances from the slavery era to the signature dances of the 1920s and 1930s into classics of American musical theatre. Lectures, discussions and technique classes.
Maximum enrollment, 20.
112S Elementary Contemporary Dance.
Fundamentals of contemporary dance incorporating technique, theory and criticism. No previous dance training required.
Maximum enrollment, 25.
The Department.
[114]
Elementary Ballet.
Beginner-level study of classical ballet with a focus on ballet's basic vocabulary in both barre and center floor exercises, studio-stage directions and designations for the classical positions of the body in space. Work on such stylistic aspects of ballet as musicality, dynamics and use of the head. Readings in kinesiology pertaining to muscular alignment analysis. No previous dance experience required.
Maximum enrollment, 25.
141-142F,S Performance.
The study of dance through performance of a role in a main stage dance concert. Prerequisite, invitation of the department. One-quarter credit per semester. The Department.
180S Sound, Performance and Creativity.
An introduction to the development and use of sound in its relationship to performance. Topics include creation of original sound structures, using vocal and body sounds as well as found objects; introduction to sound recording, editing and playback; aural analyses of material created in the class, as well as material from various historical periods, to develop a common musical language and to understand the structures and aesthetics of sound and music; creation of different types of non-traditional visual scores and their application for movement. Individual and group projects. No previous musical, dance or theatre experience required.
Maximum enrollment, 16.
Lloyd.
201S History of Dance.
Study of the theatrical, social and ritual aspects of dance through cross-cultural comparisons among dance forms. Exploration and analysis of such historical issues as the evolution of dances, the struggle to preserve traditional dances and dance fusions in a global society. Lectures, discussions and films.
(Writing-intensive.)
No previous dance training required.
Maximum enrollment, 20.
Norton.
203S Movement Analysis.
Observing, analyzing and recording movement using Laban's principles. Emphasis on cultural and aesthetic concepts of movement as a system of communication. Investigation of alignment techniques, movement behavior and kinesiological principles. No prior dance training required.
Maximum enrollment, 15.
Heekin.
204S Pilates For Dance.
A focus on the basic exercises found in the pilates method of body conditiong including various apparatus (mat, magic circle, reformer, barrel and cadillac). An overview of anatomy as it applies to the pilates system will be addressed. The history and philosophical approach to the pilates system will be included. The discipline focuses on the muscles that are the linchpin of good posture and a stable, strong core. Prerequisite, dance technique course taken within the department.
Maximum enrollment, 16.
Heekin.
[205S]
Kinesiology.
An investigation of the musculo-skeletal system and use of biomechanical principles to improve efficiency of motor behavior. Emphasis on joint, muscular and alignment analysis. Lectures, discussions and practical application of movement concepts. No prior dance training required.
Maximum enrollment, 30.
208F Martial Arts and Dance.
An investigation into the relationship between martial arts and dance emphasizing the abstraction of movements of self-defense into dance. Relies on many cultures that utilize body awareness and movement efficiency through several systems including aikido, capoeira, chi kung, jeet kune do, kali, muay thai, northern shaolin, pa kua chang, silat and tai chi chuan. Prerequisite, any dance, athletic or martial art experience.
Maximum enrollment, 20.
The Department.
213F Intermediate Contemporary Dance.
The study of contemporary dance incorporating technique and theory. Emphasis on alignment and efficiency of movement focusing on increasing strength and flexibility. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite, any dance or athletic training.
Maximum enrollment, 25.
Heekin.
[215]
Intermediate Ballet.
Continuation of the study of ballet. Technique classes are combined with studies in kinesiology, dance theory and dance criticism. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite, 114, or consent of instructor.
Maximum enrollment, 25.
[250F]
Ballet in the Twentieth Century.
Study of the history of ballet from the Imperial Ballet of the Tsars to the present. Study of Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, the Royal Ballet of England and the Kirov and Bolshoi of Russia. Examination of aesthetic principles and their influence on the development of modern ballet. Study of dancers, choreographers, composers and visual artists associated with the ballet world.
(Writing-intensive.)
No previous dance experience required.
Maximum enrollment, 20.
[305]
Composition.
A study of the elements of choreography, emphasizing personal development in movement invention, phrasing and design. Improvisation, costume, set, props, music and technical theatre are introduced. Prerequisite, consent of instructor.
Maximum enrollment, 15.
307F Choreography.
The application of fundamentals from 305 to more complex choreographic work, incorporating set, props, costume and text. Exploration and analysis of other art forms as related to dance composition. Prerequisite, 305 or consent of instructor.
Maximum enrollment, 15.
Heekin and Walczyk.
308S Advanced Martial Arts and Dance.
A continuation of 208, emphasizing martial arts from Africa, Asia, Southeast Asia and South America. Students will study cultural background, history, philosophy and terminology along with practical application of movement theories. Prerequisite, 208 or consent of instructor.
Maximum enrollment, 25.
Walczyk.
[313]
Advanced Contemporary Dance.
The study of contemporary dance incorporating technique and theory. Emphasis on performance techniques and ability to comprehend the conceptual framework of movement. Supplemental training in Pilates, jazz and yoga. Guest artists invited each year to teach master classes. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite, 213 or consent of instructor.
Maximum enrollment, 25.
315F,S Advanced Ballet.
The study of classical ballet emphasizing style and performance quality in addition to technical mastery of the ballet vocabulary. Meets five times weekly. While out-of-class assignments are minimal, daily attendance, effort and consistent improvement in the technical and stylistic aspects of this art form are of critical importance. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite, 215 or consent of instructor.
Maximum enrollment, 25.
Norton.
550F,S Senior Thesis.
A research paper or a field study in movement behavior and its analysis/notation. Open to senior concentrators only. The Department.
560F,S Senior Performance/Choreography.
A performance of dance works, the choreography of dance works or both. Substantial written component comprising research into the historical, theoretical and socio-cultural contexts of the chosen work. Following submission of the monograph and completion of production, each student will participate in the evaluation of her/his project with an evaluating committee. Open to senior concentrators only. The Department.
