Academy of Dance Course Descriptions
Course Title: Ballet Dance Ensemble .5 Credit
Prerequisites: Basic dance experience or instructor approval required
Ballet is a comprehensive introduction to the art of ballet, focusing on both technique and performance. Students will learn the foundational principles of ballet, including proper body alignment, posture, and terminology, as well as essential movements and positions. Through structured classes, students will engage in barre exercises, center work, and combinations across the floor, developing strength, flexibility, and musicality. Emphasis will be placed on the aesthetic aspects of ballet, fostering an appreciation for its history and cultural significance. The course will culminate in a performance, allowing students to showcase their skills and creativity.
Course Objectives:
- Understand and apply the basic principles and terminology of ballet
- Develop strength, flexibility, and coordination through structured ballet exercises
- Enhance performance skills and stage presence
- Explore the historical and cultural context of ballet as an art form
- Participate in a final performance to demonstrate learned skills
Course Title: Jazz Dance Ensemble .5 Credit
Prerequisites: Basic dance experience or instructor approval required
Jazz Dance is a comprehensive introduction to the art of jazz dance. Through rigorous training in various jazz styles, students will develop their technical skills, performance techniques, and artistic expression. The course will cover fundamental jazz dance vocabulary, isolations, and rhythms, as well as choreography that incorporates elements from classical jazz, contemporary, and street styles. Students will participate in regular rehearsals, focusing on teamwork and collaboration, and will have the opportunity to perform in showcases or recitals, highlighting their growth as performers.
Course Objectives:
- Develop technical proficiency in various jazz dance styles and techniques
- Explore the history and evolution of jazz dance as an art form
- Enhance performance skills, including stage presence and musicality
- Collaborate with peers to create and perform original choreography
- Cultivate creativity and expression through improvisation and choreography
Course Title: Dance Performance Ensemble .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: Instructor placement approval required
Dance Ensemble provides an exciting opportunity for dancers to collaborate and create within a dynamic ensemble setting. Students will explore a variety of dance styles, including contemporary, hip-hop, lyrical, musical theater, and world dance forms, while focusing on developing their technical skills, artistic expression, and teamwork. Through regular rehearsals, students will learn choreography, refine their performance abilities, and participate in the creation of original works. Emphasis will be placed on collaboration, improvisation, and the creative process, culminating in live performances that showcase the ensemble's talent and creativity.
Course Objectives:
- Develop technical dance skills across multiple styles
- Enhance performance quality, including stage presence and expression
- Collaborate with peers to create original choreography and group works
- Engage in the creative process through improvisation and experimentation
- Participate in live performances, demonstrating growth as a dancer and ensemble member
Course Title: Choreography I 1 Credit
Prerequisites: Basic dance experience or instructor approval is required
Choreography is a comprehensive exploration of the art of dance choreography, guiding students through the creative process of developing original dance works. Students will learn various choreographic techniques, including the use of space, time, dynamics, and musicality, while drawing inspiration from different dance styles and cultural influences. Through a combination of movement improvisation, structured exercises, and peer feedback, students will refine their choreographic voice and develop skills in crafting compelling dance narratives. The course will culminate in a showcase of student-created works, allowing participants to present their choreography to an audience.
Course Objectives:
- Explore foundational choreographic principles and techniques
- Develop a personal choreographic style and voice
- Create original dance pieces using improvisation and structured methods
- Collaborate with peers to refine and present choreography
- Gain experience in staging and performing original works for an audience
Course Title: Choreography II 1 Credit
Prerequisites: Choreography I or instructor approval
Choreography II builds on the foundational skills developed in Choreography I, focusing on refining creative processes and expanding choreographic vocabulary. Students will delve deeper into the intricacies of movement composition, explore more complex themes, and experiment with interdisciplinary approaches, including the integration of music, visual elements, and technology. Emphasis will be placed on producing longer and more sophisticated works, with attention to narrative development, collaboration, and staging. Through peer feedback and performance opportunities, students will further cultivate their choreographic voice and gain experience in directing rehearsals and working with dancers. This course is designed for advanced dance students or aspiring choreographers who wish to further develop their craft and prepare for professional choreographic endeavors.
Course Objectives:
- Refine and expand choreographic techniques and approaches developed in Choreography I
- Explore advanced concepts of theme, structure, and movement innovation in choreography
- Incorporate interdisciplinary elements such as music, lighting, costume, and multimedia into dance works
- Collaborate effectively with dancers and other artists in the production of original choreography
- Present and perform longer, fully realized choreographic pieces, receiving and applying peer and instructor feedback
Course Title: Body Conditioning and Awareness for Dance .5 Credit
Prerequisites: None
Body Conditioning and Awareness for Dance focuses on enhancing the physical capabilities and body awareness of dancers through targeted conditioning exercises and mindful movement practices. Students will engage in a variety of techniques, including strength training, flexibility work, balance exercises, and body alignment practices specifically designed for dance. Emphasis will be placed on understanding anatomy, improving core strength, and developing overall body awareness to enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury. Through a combination of theory and practical application, students will learn how to care for their bodies, optimize their movement potential, and cultivate a deeper connection to their physical selves as dancers. This course is designed for dancers seeking to improve their physical conditioning, deepen their understanding of body mechanics, and enhance their overall performance quality through mindful awareness and targeted exercises.
Course Objectives:
- Improve overall strength, flexibility, and balance to support dance performance
- Develop body awareness and alignment through targeted conditioning exercises
- Understand the anatomical principles that influence movement in dance
- Enhance the ability to move efficiently and safely, reducing the risk of injury
- Cultivate a mindful approach to movement that fosters a deeper connection to the body
Course Title: Dance History .5 Credit
Prerequisites: None
Dance History is a comprehensive overview of the evolution of dance as an art form, tracing its development from ancient times to contemporary practices. Students will explore various styles, cultural contexts, and significant movements in the history of dance, including ballet, modern dance, jazz, hip-hop, and traditional folk dances from around the world. Students will gain insight into how historical events, societal changes, and cultural influences have shaped dance practices. The course will also emphasize key figures and groundbreaking works that have defined and transformed the landscape of dance throughout history. This course is designed for students interested in deepening their knowledge of dance history, enhancing their understanding of the cultural contexts that shape movement, and cultivating a greater appreciation for the art of dance.
Course Objectives:
- Understand the historical development of dance across various cultures and time periods
- Analyze the impact of social, political, and cultural factors on dance practices
- Explore significant dance styles, movements, and choreographers that have shaped the art form
- Develop critical thinking skills through the analysis of dance performances and literature
- Foster an appreciation for the diversity and richness of dance as a global art form
Course Title: Acting I .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: None
Acting I is designed to immerse students in the fundamental techniques and principles of acting. This course emphasizes the development of skills essential for effective performance, including voice control, body awareness, improvisation, character analysis, and emotional expression. Through a combination of exercises, scene work, and collaborative projects, students will learn to connect with their characters and communicate authentic emotions on stage. The course will also explore the basics of script analysis and the importance of collaboration in performance.
Course Objectives:
- Develop foundational acting techniques, including voice, movement, and improvisation
- Enhance emotional expressiveness and the ability to inhabit a character
- Learn to analyze scripts and understand character motivations
- Collaborate effectively with peers in scene work and group exercises
- Build confidence in public speaking and performance through regular practice
Course Title: Vocal Performance Ensemble .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: Instructor placement approval required
Vocal Ensemble provides singers with the opportunity to participate in a collaborative vocal ensemble, focusing on the preparation and performance of choral and small group works. Students will explore a diverse range of repertoire, from classical and contemporary choral music to jazz, gospel, and world music. Emphasis will be placed on vocal technique, blending, harmony, and ensemble dynamics, as well as performance skills. Through regular rehearsals and guided instruction, students will develop their musicianship and stage presence, culminating in a live performance at the end of the course. This course is designed for vocalists seeking to improve their individual proficiency, develop a deeper understanding of choral music, and gain valuable performance experience.
Course Objectives:
- Develop vocal ensemble performance skills, including blending, intonation, and harmony
- Explore and perform diverse repertoire from various genres and musical traditions
- Enhance individual vocal technique within an ensemble setting
- Improve sight-singing and musical interpretation abilities
- Build confidence and stage presence through live performances
Course Title: Show Production .5 Credit
Prerequisites: None
Show Production is an in-depth exploration of the creative and technical aspects of live show production. Students will learn how to plan, organize, and execute live performances, including concerts, theater productions, and other events. Key topics include stage design, lighting, sound engineering, set construction, and production management. Students will gain practical experience in coordinating all elements of a live show, from pre-production to performance. This course is designed for students interested in the behind-the-scenes work of live performances, offering valuable skills for careers in the entertainment industry, event management, and technical production.
Course Objectives:
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the live show production process
- Learn the technical aspects of sound, lighting, and stage design
- Develop project management and organizational skills for event production
- Collaborate with a team to produce a live performance
- Understand the role of production in enhancing the audience’s experience
Course Title: Professional Preparation for a Dance Career .5 Credit
Prerequisites: Advanced dance proficiency
Professional Preparation for a Dance Career is designed to equip aspiring dancers with the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of dance. Students will explore various aspects of building a professional career, including audition techniques, portfolio development, and personal branding. The curriculum will cover topics such as injury prevention, nutrition for dancers, business skills, and the importance of networking within the industry. Through practical workshops, masterclasses with industry professionals, and mock auditions, students will refine their performance skills and develop a comprehensive plan for their dance careers. This course is designed for dedicated dancers looking to navigate the transition from training to a professional career, providing them with the tools and confidence needed to thrive in the dance industry.
Course Objectives:
- Develop and refine performance skills tailored for auditions and professional engagements
- Understand the business side of a dance career, including marketing, branding, and financial management
- Prepare a professional portfolio, including resumes, headshots, and demo reels
- Learn effective networking strategies and how to establish connections within the dance community
- Gain practical experience through workshops and mock auditions
Course Title: Capstone Project (Development and Graduation Exhibition) Graduation Requirement
Prerequisites: Instructor approval required
Capstone Project is the culminating course for advanced arts students, allowing them to showcase their mastery through an individualized, large-scale performance or research project. Students will design and execute a personalized project that reflects their artistic growth, technical proficiency, and musical interests. Options include preparing a solo recital, conducting an ensemble, composing an original work, or completing a research project on a relevant topic. Throughout the course, students will receive guidance from faculty, engage in peer feedback, and present their project to an audience in a final performance or presentation. This course is designed for students nearing the completion of their studies to demonstrate their readiness for professional performance, teaching, or further academic pursuits in their chosen arts academy.
Course Objectives:
- Develop and execute a comprehensive capstone project that reflects individual artistic and technical abilities
- Apply advanced techniques and concepts in a professional setting
- Enhance project management and self-directed learning skills
- Present the final project in a live performance or academic presentation
- Reflect on personal artistic growth and professional development
Course Title: Repertoire Graduation Requirement
Prerequisites: Instructor approval required
Repertoire is designed for an instructor to critique and mentor students who are close to or at performance level. The instructor gives technical and/or advice and the audience learns by listening, observing, and applying any suggestions to their own practice.
Course Title: Master Class Seminar Graduation Requirement
Prerequisites: Instructor approval required
This advanced seminar is designed for students, artists, and creatives seeking to refine their craft through in-depth exploration of artistic techniques, conceptual development, and professional practices. Each session features guest speakers, guest artists to conduct expert-led discussions, hands-on workshops, and critiques, allowing students to engage with various art forms and professionals. Through guided projects and mentorship, students will push the boundaries of their artistic expression while building a portfolio and gaining insights. The seminar also emphasizes networking, development, and expansion of their craft.