This class draws upon the techniques of modern dance pioneers: Martha Graham, Doris Humphrey, and Merce Cunningham. The class will stress body placement, contrasts in movement qualities, and dance as a means of personal expression. This course is graded Pass/Fail.

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of jazz dance techniques and vocabulary. In this class, students will focus on coordination and flexibility through fun, upbeat, energetic music, center work, across-the-floor progressions, and contemporary choreography. Students will utilize body isolations and rhythmic awareness, combined with dance phrases, to enhance their strength, wellness, and confidence. This course is graded Pass/Fail.

A continuation of Jazz I, this course presents a further study of jazz dance techniques stressing the extended jazz vocabulary and complexity of movement phrases. This course is graded Pass/Fail.

This course introduces students to the art of tap dance, including its history, artists, technique, and terminology. Did someone say “time step”? Various styles of tap will be explored while focusing on timing, rhythm, pattern recognition, coordination, balance, and improvisation. Tap shoes are required. This course is graded Pass/Fail.

This course offers a higher level of training and commitment for students with a passion in dance to develop a community of fellow, driven dancers that share common goals. Students are required to take part in on– and off–campus dance events (such as competitions, Winterfest, and Duende), as well as all necessary rehearsals to prepare. Note: This course is open to selected students by audition only. This course is graded Pass/Fail.

The history of entertainment will provide a fascinating window into the culture of America through textbook, audio, and video. We will explore social and cultural movements that influenced and celebrated theater, music, and dance in the 20th century. Included areas of focus will be early and contemporary entertainment on Broadway, television, and in Hollywood as well as how Ballroom dancing gave way to today’s “club dancing” and MTV.