The Department of Drama now offers a Minor in Dance.

WHAT IS CORE TO THE DANCE PROGRAM at UVa?
The Dance Program at UVa is interested in creating an overall ‘intelligent dancer’.  This term describes a dancer that is fluent in various techniques, improvisation skills, composition, theory, performance experience, and production knowledge.  We are committed to providing the students interested in dance with a balanced program that will offer all of these elements. This opportunity will allow students to become strong technical and artistic dancers. Because dance is a physical and kinesthetic art form, it is crucial that technique class serve as the core study of Dance at UVA.  Minors can expect to experience these classes as the foundation of the program. Students are required to take five credits of Technique including the Modern and Ballet requirements. Students will be required to take two courses (3 credits) in Composition, 6 credits of dance electives, and one Production/Design course within the Drama Department.  These courses allow students to delve into specific areas of interest within dance. The electives begin to represent the breadth and depth of the professional dance world.  All of these courses will be presented with a conscious emphasis on Modern Dance in Western Society.  Students will be offered elective classes in Laban Movement Analysis to ensure they have access to the skills required for observing and discussing dance.  Students will be required to take Modern Dance History to empower their critical thinking regarding the development and progression of dance in history as well as in the current dance world.

In addition to the coursework, dance minors will be required to participate in 1-2 dance performances within the department.

For information on upcoming Dance Concerts, click here.
To see photos from past Dance Concerts, click here.

Course Requirements

Modern Technique (2 credits)

DANC 2220 Modern Dance I (1)
DANC 3220 Modern Dance II (1)

Ballet Technique (1 credit) from

DANC 2210 Ballet I (1)
DANC 3210 Ballet II (1)

Jazz Technique (1 credit) from

DANC 2230 Jazz Dance I (1)
DANC 3230 Jazz Dance II (1)

History, Literature, Criticism (6 credits)

DANC 1400 The Art of Dance (3)
DANC 3400 History of Modern Dance (3)

Composition (4 credits)

DANC 2300 Dance Improvisation (2)
DANC 3300 Dance Choreography (2)

Electives (4 credits) from

DANC 3610 Contact Improvisation (1)
DANC 3640 Dance for the Camera (3)
DANC 3630 Dance Theatre (3)
DANC 3620 Dance Repertory (1-3)
DANC 4640 Intro to Laban Movement Analysis (3)
MUEN 3690 African Drumming and Dance Ensemble (2)
DRAM 3440 Movement for Theatre (3)
DANC 4993 Independent Study; Dance (1-3)

Production (3 credits) from

DANC 3650 Dance Production (3)

Total credits required for the minor is 21.

In addition to academics, students are provided with a wide range of opportunities.  Each year dance minors are given the opportunity to attend American College Dance Festival in which they participate in master classes and performances.  Students are also provided with opportunities on grounds such as master classes, time to work with guest choreographers and varied performance opportunities.  Our performance venues vary.  In the past we have performed in the Drama Productions, at Peidmont Virginia Community College, and in site specific locations on grounds and in the surrounding community.  Students are also encouraged to become involved with various student dance organizations on grounds.  To declare a Dance minor, please contact minor advisor Rose Pasquarello Beauchamp.

Interested in supporting the Dance Program? Click here for information on how your gift can help.

(Photos by Jack Looney)