Course Descriptions
Dance courses

* Scheduling of offerings is subject to change. When not indicated otherwise, offerings are every term.

Dance (131)


131-141 Contemporary Dance Technique I          GA          2 Credits
A study of basic dance movement through exploration, analysis and identification of the principles of Contemporary Dance as an art form. A participation course, utilizing problem- solving and creativity in movement.
Offered each semester*. Repeatable

131-144 Jazz Dance          GA          2 Credits
This course includes a brief evolution and history of jazz dance. Integrated with dance techniques are different styles of jazz dance as practiced today. Repeatable.

131-145 Ballet I          GA          2 Credits
The Beginning Ballet course will provide instruction in the basis movements upon which all movements in ballet are built. Posture and alignment are stressed as well as foot articulation and proper use of turn-out. The class incorporates barre work, center combinations and large movements across the floor. Students will also be taught the French terminology for movements learned. Offered each semester*. Repeatable two times for a maximum of 4 credits in degree.

131-200 Practicum - Dance Performance          1 Credit
A course designed to allow students who are interested in dance as an art form to participate as performers-choreographers in a contemporary dance concert. A student is expected to spend a minimum of 100 hours per credit in rehearsing and performing at times specified by the instructor. Repeatable. Offered every fall, students continue in spring.
Prereq: Audition and consent of instructor

131-243 Improvisation/Sound          GA          2 Credits
The creation of dance movement through the exploration and experimentation of a variety of stimuli as sources for movement experiences. Offered Spring ’98, Fall ‘99*, Spring 2001, Fall 2002.

131-244 Contemporary Dance Techniquies II          2 Credits
Further study of dance techniques on the intermediate level. Repeatable three times for a maximum of 6 credits in degree. Offered each spring*.
Prereq: 131-141 or consent of instructor

131-246 Ballet II          2 Credits
Continuation of basic concepts learned in Ballet I with emphasis on more complex skills and combinations. Repeatable for a maximum of 4 credits in degree. Offered each fall*.
Prereq: It is highly recommended that students have two semesters of Ballet I before attempting Ballet II, or consent of instructor. May be repeated.

131-320 Composition I (Solo)          3 Credits
Composition I (solos) is a course which presents basic material on the craft of creating solo dances. Students will be given structural problems to solve by creating original movement. The use of musical accompaniment and props will be explored. Videotapes and films of professional choreography will be viewed for discussion and students will be introduced to the use of costumes, lighting, and sets for dance. Offered Spring’97, ’99, 2001, 2003.

131-330 Performance Art          2 Credits
Performance Art is an avant-garde form of live art performance. In this course students will learn about the historical predecessors of Performance Art, be exposed to contemporary work through reviews, articles and videotapes, and create their own solo and group work to culminate in a public performance. Repeatable. Offered Fall ’97, ’99, 2001, 2003.

131-345 Creative Dance for Children          2 Credits
Exploring and improvising dance experiences on the child’s level with emphasis on an increasing ability to use movement creatively. Offered Occasionally.
Prereq: 131-243 or consent of instructor

131-346 Ballet III          2 Credits
A participation course designed for the advanced level ballet student. Complex combinations and techniques such as multiple turns and beats as well as anatomical considerations will be studied. Repeatable for a maximum of 4 credits n degree. Offered each fall *.
Prereq: At least two semesters of Ballet II or consent of instructor.

131-348 Contemporary Dance Techniques III          2 Credits
Learning the kinesthetic way of moving the body and performing more complex technique and style in longer movement phrases appropriate for advance level technique. Repeatable three times for a maximum of 6 credits in degree. Offered each spring*.
Prereq: 131-244 or consent of instructor

131-420 Dance Domposition II (Group)          3 Credits
A continuation of the elements of choreography concentrating on form with more complex approaches and depth of movement themes for duet, trio and group. Offered Fall ’97, Spring ’99, Fall 2000, Spring 2002.
Prereq: 131-320

131-496 Special Studies          1-3 Credits
A course which is not regularly included in the curriculum but which is offered from time to time on topics in Dance as an art form, selected on the basis of need, interest or timeliness. It also permits the student to work on the main stage production of Theatre/Dance that requires extensive choreography. Repeatable. Offered on demand.
Prereq: Junior status and consent of the Theatre/Dance Department.

131-499 Dance Production Project          1-3 Credits
Choreographing and staging a full length dance concert of a equivalent or choreographing for mainstage productions such as the annual department dance concert or a musical where choreography plays one of the major roles. All choreographic pieces for public performance will be under the supervision of a dance faculty. Repeatable three times for a maximum of 6 credits in degree. Offered on demand.
Prereq: 131-200 and 131-420 and junior standing