This course will explore the technique and improvisation specific to the Savoy Ballroom jazz dance era spanning 1930-1950. We will engage with traditional jazz dance roots such as charleston, lindy hop, solo jazz, and blues, and students will view archival footage to support their understanding of these vintage aesthetics. "Jazz roots" dances existed in both social and performative spaces, and we will learn the techniques that underpin both of these aims. By the end of the semester, students will be knowledgeable in basic jazz music structures, be able to lead and follow social partnered dance, and create their own jazz roots choreography based on the steps and aesthetics we discuss.
Course Attributes: EN H; AS HUM
Fundamentals of Classical Ballet
DANCE 222
Designed for dancers with no previous training or knowledge of the development of ballet in America, a systematic introduction to the ballet technique, including traditional terminology and introductory readings on New York City Ballet as a repository for the choreography of George Balanchine. Attention to basic anatomical concerns and body alignment as well as to the classical movement vocabulary.
Course Attributes: EN H; AS HUM; BU Hum; FA HUM; AR HUM
Introduction to Theatre Production
DANCE 212E
An introductory study of the major elements involved with mounting a theatrical production. Utilizing guest speakers in both theater arts and theater studies, the course addresses such topics as scenic, costume, lighting and sound design; production management and procedures; and the history and culture of theatrical space and design. Students are required to serve as a crew member on one departmental production in the Performing Arts Department.
Course Attributes: EN H; BU Hum; AS HUM; FA HUM; AR HUM
Composition I
DANCE 203
Finding personal movement and transforming it into dance. Through a series of class projects the formal elements of composition are introduced. Prerequisites: Dance 201, or permission of the instructor. Concurrent registration in a technique class required.
Course Attributes: EN H; BU Hum; AS HUM
Theory and Technique of Modern Dance I
DANCE 201E
Fundamental theory and techniques of American modern dance. Studio work investigating the expressive potential of human movement and developing individual rhythmic and kinesthetic awareness, coordination, and breadth of movement vocabulary. Related reading and video expand on theory embodied in the class work and give an historical overview of modern dance in the U.S. Attendance of 2-3 performances required. Prerequisite: some previous dance training or permission of instructor.
Course Attributes: EN H; AS HUM
Tutorial
DANCE 200
Supplementary work at the low intermediate level in ballet and modern dance. Prerequisites: sophomore standing or permission of the Coordinator of the Dance Division.
Course Attributes: EN H; AS HUM
Introduction to Dance as a Contemporary Art Form
DANCE 106E
Introduction to dance as a creative art form. Through practical work in the studio, students gain an understanding of the human body as an instrument of expression and of motion as the medium of dance. Technique, analysis, and creative work. Not open to majors. May be repeated once for credit.
Course Attributes: EN H; AS HUM; BU Hum; FA HUM; AR HUM
Independent Work
DANCE 4990
Prerequisite: permission of the coordinator of the dance division.
Course Attributes:
Study for Honors
DANCE 499
An honors thesis or performance and thesis project designed by the student, and supervised and assessed by a faculty committee. Prerequisite: senior standing, a cumulative GPA of 3.5 and a major GPA of 3.5 and permission of the Dance Coordinator.
Course Attributes:
Senior Project
DANCE 493
Specialized project in selected area in dance. The student will work individually under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite: permission of the Coordinator of the Dance Division.
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