Dance

Dance 5 offers an overview of dance in historical, cultural, political, and social contexts. This course covers the historical development of dance as a performing art through the periods of history from the pre-historic era through the 21st Century. This class investigates the origin, tradition, and development of theatrical dance styles, including ballet, modern, postmodern, jazz, tap, hip-hop, world dance forms and contemporary. Examining dance as a performing art as well as a medium of social, cultural, and individual expression is emphasized through the comprehensive study of dance works and dance artists.

This course is designed to introduce the concepts and principles of classical ballet technique at the intermediate level. Dance 33A is taught in the classically accepted manner of learning ballet technique. Exercises at the barre and centre will incorporate combinations of movements practiced to various musical rhythms and dynamics. This course facilitates students learning of other dance styles, and prepares the dancer for stage performance experience. This class is intended for dance majors.

This course is an intermediate level of contemporary modern dance technique with an emphasis on developing technical and compositional skills. Dance 43 will embrace increased range of motion, more complex phrases with various musicality, and more in depth analysis of movement and choreography. This class is intended for dance majors.

This experiential movement course provides tools for developing personal artistic expression through movement, in support of composition and performance. Students will develop tools and techniques for creative movement generation through guided improvisational prompts and scores. This course encourages students to explore a range of movement possibilities, and to think broadly about individual expression. Appropriate for all levels, dance majors and non-majors.

a 2-unit course from DANCE 10 - DANCE 29 recommended

See the full list: Required Elective Course from "Program Electives" list below

This course is designed for students to continue to master concepts and principles of intermediate ballet technique with an emphasis on the development of improving technical ability. Exercises at the barre and the centre will continue to incorporate combinations of movements practiced to various musical rhythms and dynamics. This course will introduce concepts of dance kinesiology and injury prevention as well as prepare the dancer for stage performance experience. This class is intended for dance majors.

This course is designed for students to continue to master concepts and principles of intermediate modern dance technique with an emphasis on the development of improving technical ability. Dance 43B introduces compositional skills, diverse movement phrases with different styles, changes of levels, and increased "air" skills with multiple turns. This class is designed to prepare students for stage performance experience. This class is intended for dance majors.

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of dance choreography and the principles of compositional craft. Students will explore tools for movement invention, motif and phrase development, spatial design, and architecture of bodies in space through creative process. Course content centers on the creation of dance choreography as a form of human expression through application of formal design elements, and development of a unique creative voice. Solo and Group forms are explored. Methods of learning include guided movement studies, solo and group presentations, viewing of live and recorded concert dance, peer feedback, and discussion. *See counselor regarding transfer credit limitations.

MATH 21 or 54 recommended for transfer options

See the full list: SMC GE Area IV-B Course (opens in new window)

This course provides an exploration of intellectual, psychological, social and physical factors that impact lifelong learning, well-being and success. Topics include motivation and self-efficacy; critical thinking, academic integrity and active study strategies; health issues and lifestyle choices; relating to others as a global citizen; written and oral communication; time management; career exploration; and educational planning.

This course is designed for the students with a sound understanding and mastery of ballet technique at an intermediate/advanced level of ability. Extensive ballet terminology, complex combinations of movements, diverse musical rhythms and dynamics will be introduced throughout the semester. This course will emphasize strengthening the student's technical ability and preparing the student for study at the advanced level of ballet technique. Study of kinesiology and injury prevention will be included as well as preparation for stage performance experience. This class is intended for dance majors.

This course is an intermediate-advanced modern dance technique, continuation of Dance 43B. The ability to transfer, invert and do phrases in retrograde, as well as use dynamic physicality (high energy changes in levels and dynamics) is explored. Repertory excerpts are also included in this course. This class is designed to prepare students for stage performance experience.This class is intended for dance majors.

ENGL 2 recommended for transfer options

a 2-unit course from DANCE 10-DANCE 29, DANCE 62 or DANCE 63 recommended

This course is designed for the student at the advanced level of ballet technique. Emphasis is placed on maintaining the advanced level of technique the dancer has achieved. Extensive ballet terminology, intricate movement combinations, diverse musical rhythms and dynamics will be centered both at barre and centre. This course will prepare students for auditions and stage performance experience in professional fields, as well as guide the student to devise the movement combinations for the class in anticipation of future teaching responsibilities. Study of kinesiology and injury prevention will continue to be included. Students majoring in dance should prepare audition for transfer. This class is intended for dance majors.

This course is designed for students at an advanced level of contemporary modern dance technique. Emphasis is placed on maintaining the advanced level of technique the dancer has achieved. The ability to transfer, invert and do phrases in retrograde, as well as use dynamic physicality (high energy changes in levels and dynamics) is explored. Original and traditional repertory excerpts are also included in this course. This class is designed to prepare students for stage performance experience. Students majoring in dance should prepare audition for transfer. This class is intended for dance majors.

a 2-unit course from DANCE 10-DANCE 29, DANCE 62 or DANCE 63 recommended

a 2-unit course from DANCE 10-DANCE 29, DANCE 62 or DANCE 63 recommended

This course is a comparative and integrative study of world dance styles of the United States. Included is the study of Native American, European American, African American, Chicano/Latin American, and Asian American dance styles from their historical origins to the present. The study of dance traditions from both the technical and cultural perspective is presented in relation to social, theatrical and artistic dance. Observation and descriptive skills are learned through films, live performances and lectures.

This course provides a focused study of prominent figures and events that have shaped the development of dance in the 20th and 21st century. The emphasis will be on dance as a performing art in the United States and Western Europe, acknowledging the broader cultural influences that have shaped the major movements of modern, postmodern, and contemporary dance. Considering historical, cultural, and theoretical context, this course is designed to foster critical thinking, and research skills. NOTE: Dance majors are recommended to complete Dance 5 prior to enrolling in Dance 6.

This course focuses on the relationship between music and dance. Students investigate and learn music fundamentals, music and dance styles, improvisational and compositional skills for today's artistic world. Attendance at dance productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.

This lecture survey course addresses the many different requirements of putting on a production, providing the theoretical foundation that supports the production process, and building an information base of the specialized language and terminology, schedules and procedures necessary to produce a show. Students learn how to organize and prepare the different aspects of production, how to implement ideas, and how to communicate with specialists in the field.

This course places emphasis on the fundamental training necessary for success in a variety of dance and movement styles for dance students of all levels. Movement principles from sources including anatomy, biomechanics and rehabilitation will be utilized to improve body alignment, core stabilization, breath support and other aspects of technique in key dance movement patterns. Students will demonstrate proper body alignment, learn human anatomy as it pertains to the moving body, analyze different principles of movement emphasizing time, space and effort as well as enhance the mind-body connection through somatic principles.

This introductory course will explore fundamental techniques of hip hop dance. Attention is placed on basic syncopation, isolations and rhythms with an emphasis on musicality, strength, flexibility and coordination. Improvisation or "freestyling" is introduced to develop the individual expression and style indigenous to the form. Critical analysis of hip hop choreography and an appreciation of hip hop dance including its cultural significance, history and origins as an art form are emphasized. Written assignments and attendance at Dance Department concerts are required.

This course builds on the fundamental techniques of hip hop dance at an intermediate level. Attention is placed on syncopation, isolations and rhythms with an emphasis on musicality, strength, flexibility and coordination. Improvisation or "freestyling" is emphasized to further develop the individual expression and style indigenous to the form. Critical analysis of hip hop choreography and hip hop street dance, along with its cultural significance, history and origins as an art form are also emphasized. Written assignments and attendance at Dance Department concerts are required.

This course builds on the fundamental techniques of hip hop dance forms at an advanced level. Attention is placed on dynamic movement qualities, choreography execution, and complex musicality with an emphasis on syncopation, isolations, strength, control, coordination and performance. Improvisation or "freestyling" is emphasized to further develop the individual expression and style indigenous to the form. Critical analysis of hip hop choreography and current trends, along with hip hop dance’s cultural significance, history, and origins as an art form, are also emphasized.

This introductory course will explore the fundamental techniques, styles, kinesiological awareness, and history of jazz dance in America. Attention is placed on basic jazz dance steps and vocabulary, with emphasis on musicality, strength and flexibility, expression, coordination, and an appreciation of jazz dance as an art form. The technique studied investigates the use of rhythm, dynamics, space, and energy while disciplining the body and developing motor skills as a tool for creative self expression. The course introduces choreography retention and improvisation techniques for various jazz dance styles at a beginning level, as well as historical studies on topics surrounding American jazz dance pioneers, codified styles, cultural influences, and current trends.

This course is a continuation of Dance 14, building on the intermediate jazz dance techniques, styles, movement vocabulary, kinesiological awareness, and historical knowledge of jazz dance in America. The course introduces new skills and movement variations from various jazz styles. Combinations further explore dance expression in jazz with complex dance sequences, varied musicality, and improvisation. The technique studied investigates the use of rhythm, dynamics, space, and energy while disciplining the body and developing motor skills as a tool for creative self expression at an intermediate level. Historical studies on topics surrounding American jazz dance pioneers, codified styles, cultural influences, and current trends will be included.

This course is a continuation of Dance 15, building on the advanced jazz dance techniques, styles, movement vocabulary, kinesiological awareness, and historical knowledge of jazz dance in America. The course focuses on advanced skills and movement variations from various jazz styles. Longer combinations further explore dance expression in jazz with complex dance sequences, intricate musicality, improvisation, and performance quality. The technique studied investigates the use of rhythm, dynamics, space, and energy while disciplining the body and developing motor skills as a tool for creative self expression at an advanced level. Historical studies on topics surrounding American jazz dance pioneers, codified styles, cultural influences, and current trends are included.

This course introduces a beginning level of tap dance technique and styles (including rhythm tap and Broadway tap), information about the cultural and historical origins of tap, and current trends and applications of tap in concert dance and musical theater. Emphasis will be on fundamental skills and rhythms, time steps, flash footwork, short combinations, and styling. Basic music theory, including notes, bars, phrases, time signatures and song structure, is also covered as it directly relates to tap dance. Historical studies on topics surrounding tap dance pioneers, codified styles, cultural influences, and current trends are included.

This course builds on DANCE 17 and focuses on intermediate-level tap dance technique, styles (including rhythm tap and Broadway tap), the cultural and historical origins of tap, and current trends and applications of tap in concert dance and musical theater. Students will focus on more complex steps, intricate, syncopated rhythms, tonal clarity, and speed. Different musical styles will be introduced relating rhythms, time signatures, and musical structures to tap styles. Emphasis will be on refining technical skills and executing more complex choreography while exploring elements of improvisation. Historical studies on topics surrounding tap dance pioneers, codified styles, cultural influences, and current trends are included.

This course provides students with the opportunity to learn various social dance forms. It is designed for students with no dance experience as well as experienced dance students seeking an introduction to social dance. Examples of dance forms that may be included are: Fox Trot, Waltz, Tango, Swing, Rumba, Cha Cha and Samba. The course will explore differences and similarities between styles and techniques while developing coordination and partnering skills. Study of the dance forms in their historical and cultural contexts and development of individual choreography will enhance the student's knowledge of each form and encourage creativity.

Students will learn world dance styles and techniques. The study of the music, art, costumes, customs, and origins of each style is also included.

This course introduces students to the theatrical, social, and religious traditions of Asian/Pacific Dance in its cultural context. The movement techniques of Sundanese, Javanese, Hawaiian, and Tahitian dance will be studied as well as the relationship of the dances to music, myth, and character.

This course offers an intermediate level of Asian/Pacific dance technique with an emphasis on developing aesthetic concepts and principles of movement vocabulary of Bali, Sumatra, Samoa, and Maori dances. Students will learn techniques of traditional Asian Pacific story-telling through dance with emphasis on use of the hands, body language, and facial expression. Instruction will also include study of history, lifestyle, family system/values, as well as the European and Western influences on both traditional and contemporary Asian Pacific dance, religion, cultural arts, and politics.

This course is a beginning Mexican dance class which introduces techniques and styles of traditional Mexican dances. Students learn authentic regional dances and study indigenous and outside influences, historical impact, costumes, and music. Dance techniques learned may serve as preparation for the World Dance Performance Courses (Dance 57A and 57B).

This course is an intermediate level of Mexican dance with an emphasis on traditional dance styles not covered in Dance 22 (Beginning Mexican Dance). Students will learn intermediate level body placement, footwork, rhythm patterns, and choreography. The course also provides historical context, including European and African cultural influences on Mexican dance, as well as the influence of religion, music, art, and popular styles on traditional Mexican dance forms. Dance techniques learned may serve as preparation for the World Dance Performance Courses (Dance 57A and 57B).

This course introduces students to the movement and music of Flamenco Dance and its cultural, historic, and geographic origins. The basic dance technique, complex musical structure and extensive terminology is studied along with the basic elements of movement including body placement and strength building exercises.

This course offers an intermediate level of Flamenco dance with emphasis on aesthetic concepts and principles of traditional and contemporary Flamenco dance movement along with an understanding of Flamenco rhythms, accents, and nuances. Course content will include in-depth study of Gypsy dance movement and culture, “cante” (singing), the Andalusian aesthetic, Bulerias, Tangos, Sevillanas, and several other “Palos” (Flamenco genres defined by their melody, rhythm, and point of origin). Correct body alignment and placement will be stressed with the goal of mastering intermediate level steps, footwork, and rhythmic patterns. Students will critically analyze this global dance form in relation to current and historical contexts.

This course is an introduction to the study of African dance with an emphasis on West African traditional and contemporary dances. Emphasis is on techniques of Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and Dunham Technique.

This course is an intermediate level of West African dance with an emphasis on techniques of Guinea, Senegal, Mali and Ivory Coast. The class will introduce both traditional and contemporary styles of West African dance and offer lectures in historical/cultural practices at an intermediate level.

This course introduces students to the movement and music of Salsa Dance and its cultural, historic, and geographic origins. The basic dance technique, musical structure, and terminology is studied along with elements of body placement, style, and characteristics of the form including turning techniques and partnering. Additionally, bachata and cha-cha-cha dance forms will also be studied in this course.

This course surveys Brazilian dance with an emphasis on Afro-Brazilian technique and styles. Course content will include dances of the Candomble Orixas, folkloric forms such as Maculele and Maracatu, Samba, and contemporary Brazilian choreographies. Instruction will also include lectures on the vital relationship between dance, drumming, song, costume, and legends of these living traditions. The impact of these dance forms on Brazilian society will also be presented in both lecture and movement technique.

This course offers an intermediate level of Brazilian dance with an emphasis on further developing aesthetic concepts and principles of traditional and contemporary Afro-Brazilian dance movement. Course content will include in-depth study of orixa dance movement, introduction to the Silvestre Technique, folkloric dances from the Northeastern region of Brazil, contemporary Afro-Bahian dances and further development of these living dance genres in performance. Correct body alignment and placement will be stressed with the goal of mastering new steps, more advanced footwork, rhythmic patterns and critical analysis of this global dance form.

This course introduces students to the movement, music, and costumes of Middle Eastern/North African Dance. In this course students will examine historic culture and modern developments in this dance genre. Students will study the origins of Middle Eastern/North African dance techniques, rhythms, and terminology.

This course introduces the fundamental concepts and principles of classical ballet technique with an emphasis on body alignment/placement. The class focuses on foundational level ballet technique and musicality, progressing from barre to center work. Basic movement vocabulary is introduced to implement strength, coordination, and flexibility.This course is intended to prepare students for 31B.

This course offers a beginning/low-intermediate level of classical ballet technique with an emphasis on developing aesthetic concepts and principles of classical ballet form. Class focuses on improving alignment/placement through barre and center combinations, enhancing coordination and musicality. Movement vocabulary and phrases are designed to improve strength, coordination, flexibility and endurance at a beginning/low-intermediate level. This course prepares students for 32B.

This course introduces the advanced ballet student to the basics of beginning pointe work. Topics covered include placement and strength-building exercises, selection of proper footwear, and barre and center work in soft shoes and en pointe.

This course is a beginning level modern dance technique class with an emphasis on body alignment/placement, an introduction to kinesiological awareness, movement in space, modern dance terminology and introduction to historical forms of modern dance in the United States. This course focuses on foundational technique, creative experiences, conditioning and stretching exercises to improve and enhance each dancer’s strength, limberness and flexibility. Historical studies on topics surrounding modern dance pioneers, codified styles, cultural influences, and current trends are included.

This course offers a beginning/intermediate level of modern dance technique with an emphasis on further developing aesthetic concepts and principles of movement learned in Dance 41. Correct body alignment and stance will continue to be stressed throughout the semester and technique combinations will be added with the goal of mastering new steps and terminology. More complete use of body parts, complex movement phrasing and vocabularies, and new technical skills will be introduced in class.

This course offers students the opportunity to perform modern dance in repertory. Dance majors perform works in new and varied settings to a variety of audiences including the Jazz Music Series, Studio Stage Concerts, and community performances.

This course offers students the opportunity to perform different world dance styles in repertory in a community outreach program. Dance majors perform works in new and varied settings to a variety of audiences and encourage and inform high school students who are potential college dance majors. Recommended dance experience in Dance 15, 16, 21-25, 27, 29, 33-36, 43-46.

This course offers performance experience as a ballet dance company. Students audition, rehearse, and perform ballet. Students work with professional choreographers.

This course focuses on intermediate compositional craft with an emphasis on developing choreographic skills for duet and small groups. Students study design concepts, and analyze elements of choreographic form, styles and trends.

This course focuses on the interplay of choreographic principles, design, technology, and movement elements to create dance compositions in various genres. Students will learn choreographic techniques and perspectives for a specific context such as commercial dance, street dance, world dance, musical theater, and dance for camera, to expand compositional proficiency and in preparation for submission to student performance courses (Dance 55A and Dance 57A) and professional opportunities.

This course is designed to develop stage production skills for dance performances. Students will learn how to transfer a dance work from the rehearsal studios to a professional stage, using the elements of staging, lighting, scenery/props, and make-up for various styles of dance productions. Students will also learn about the process of touring with a production, site selection and fundamentals of arts management.

This course, the study of developmentally appropriate creative movement experiences for children, gives students methods to guide creativity in the pre-K and elementary classroom and to develop dance lessons tied to specific subject areas. Students gain knowledge of the movement aspect of child development and how to use creative dance to research and teach subject matter across the pre- K and elementary curriculum. It covers the role of movement in developing children’s physical, motor, emotional, and cognitive skills, and includes workshops and field experience in planning and implementing appropriate creative experiences with young children.

This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of dance-related industries and necessary tools for success in dance-related fields. Students will examine past, current and projected industry trends and will be exposed to numerous dance-related career paths through lectures, discussion, research, case studies, and industry guest speakers. Students will learn how to create artist materials such as resumes, bios, cover letters, video reels, and online profiles, as well as learn audition and interview techniques for various dance career contexts. Students will be familiarized with contracts, wages, agencies, and freelance strategies while learning how to locate internships and job opportunities that align with skill sets and goals.

This course provides a New York City study and lecture tour of dance schools, dance resources, and dance performances. Students will be introduced to one of the dance capitals of the world, attending backstage tours, company rehearsals and performances, and libraries and resource centers. Students will also have the opportunity to attend dance classes, university transfer sites, and related arts events. This course covers information and experiences only available in New York City and is a valuable learning component for the career or university minded dance student.

This course, the study of developmentally appropriate creative movement experiences for children, gives students methods to guide creativity in the pre-K and elementary classroom and to develop dance lessons tied to specific subject areas. Students gain knowledge of the movement aspect of child development and how to use creative dance to research and teach subject matter across the pre- K and elementary curriculum. It covers the role of movement in developing children’s physical, motor, emotional, and cognitive skills, and includes workshops and field experience in planning and implementing appropriate creative experiences with young children.