Dance

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of dance technique, performance, history, and critical theory. Students will study significant dance forms, major contributors, concepts, terminologies, and fundamental skills in the discipline of dance. (major, minor, GEP)

The student will learn to develop movement with reference to the components involved in function, expression and communication through movement.

This course will introduce the beginner to the fundamentals of modern contemporary dance technique through locomotor and axial work in the center and on the floor.

This course will introduce the beginner to the fundamentals of ballet technique through barre exercises and center work.

This course will introduce the beginner to the fundamentals of tap technique through various exercises and center work.

This course will introduce the beginner to the fundamentals of jazz technique through various exercises and center work.

A study of the significant development of dance, giving consideration to the functions of dance as art, ritual, social activity, spectacle, and entertainment; and to the relationship of dance to other art forms. (major, minor, GEP, CCW)

A continuation of DAN 110, studying more complex movement combinations and patterns.

A continuation of DAN 111 giving more complex movement combinations and patterns.

A continuation of DAN 113. Students will gain an extension of tap technique through barre exercises and center work; as well as working to improve their skill level and to increase endurance and stamina.

A continuation of DAN 114 with more complex movements and patterns.

A practical study of the fundamental concepts of dance performance, focusing on professional rehearsal etiquette, working as an ensemble, contributing to the creative process, and learning established choreography. Emphasis is placed on collaborative choreographic processes and accumulating movement material. Students will be provided an opportunity to perform the work in a production or event at the end of the course. May be taken more than once for credit.

An in-depth study of one specific area of dance performance. Offering based on available staff/student interest. Because course content will vary, it may be taken more than once for credit.

A continuation of DAN 210, with more complex movements, combinations, patterns and phrases.

A continuation of DAN 211 with long and more complex movement patterns, combinations and phrases.

A continuation of DAN 213 with long and more complex movement patterns, combinations, phrases and steps.

A continuation of DAN 214. The student will gain an extension of understanding and exploration of jazz dance. Students will experience improvisations, compositional studies, and different style of jazz dance.

This course will provide students with an understanding of their anatomical selves through a functional movement practice. Practices may include explorations in dance science, somatic practices, injury prevention, and nutritional care. Students will be better equipped to handle the physical and mental stress and anxiety that accompanies a career in performing arts, specifically dance performance and choreography.

This course serves as a capstone course in the B.A. Dance curriculum. Student choreographers work with faculty to develop choreography that demonstrates an evolving understanding of choreographic craft, and that reflects their personal choreographic interests. Students will collaborate with their cohort on production elements and timelines, collectively creating a final performance that is fully produced and supported by the
Department of Theatre & Dance. This capstone is meant to culminate four years of study and to prepare students for real-world experience or continued study at the graduate level.

This course is designed as a varied study including but not limited to: costume construction sewing skills (hand, machine, and serger); fabric content and characteristics; costume crafts (mask-making, millinery, accessories); costume production script and design analysis; and costume upkeep (hanging, ironing, cleaning, restocking). Particular emphasis will be placed on the production process of Theatre & Dance Converse’s mainstage productions, and creating multiple costumes for use in those productions. 

This course explores the evolution of theatre from ancient times to the present, with a particular focus on how historical plays continue to resonate in and shape modern society. Through examining seminal works from different eras and analyzing their cultural, political and social contexts, students will gain an understanding of the ways in which theatre has reflected societal values, challenged norms and inspired change throughout history. Drawing connections between past plays and current events, the course will encourage students to critically engage with the enduring power of the stage and its relevance today. (major, minor, GEP)