Academics
Dance
Contact: Katie Fennell
Address:
The Department of Dance323 HHP Building
Greensboro, NC 27402-6170
Phone: 336.334.5955
Website: http://www.uncg.edu/dce/
Catalog: Catalog Information
Programs:
- Dance (BFA) U431
- Dance Studies (BA) U435
Special Application Procedures
An audition is required to major in dance at UNCG. Auditions are held twice a year (once in the fall and once in the spring) in the Dance Building on campus for new & transfer students interested in majoring in dance.; Individual or video auditions are not accepted. The Department coordinates the bi-annual audition well in advance of other deadlines for the University. To download an application and view the audition dates please review the Dance Department Web site at www.uncg.edu/dce/audition.html
Kinds of Dance Offered
The Department offers five levels of modern dance, five levels of ballet, three levels of jazz, two of African, and two of tap dance. In addition, there are classes in Brazilian, European folk, social dance, performance/repertory, choreography, dance history, dance criticism, dance production and technology, body science for dance, dance careers and administration and dance education.
Facilities and Equipment
The facilities include five studios, complete sound systems in every studio, a fully equipped dance theater, an extensive video resource library, video recording equipment, video editing equipment, and a complete sound editing studio. Live accompanists are provided for most technique classes.
Opportunities to Perform and Choreograph
All freshmen perform in a department concert their first semester. The Department produces 10-15 concert programs each year, with 2-4 performances each; most of these offer a chance for undergraduates to perform. At least two concerts each year include choreography by undergraduate students.
Typical Career Choices
- For the past 15 years, all dance education majors willing to relocate have received offers of teaching positions in public schools.
- Most other students pursue teaching in private studios or community settings, and/or choreography or performance.
Other Career Choices
Other career choices worth considering, most of which require further study: writing about dance (publications of dance criticism), sales/marketing for dance-related items, dance/arts administration, lighting design for dance, costume design for dance, dance therapy, somatics, dance science/medicine (physical therapy/rehab for dance, injury prevention and treatment), dance history, dance notation, graphic design for dance, dance photography, dance technology.
Comments from Students
In a recent survey, dance students indicated some of the strengths of the Department: "diverse faculty and curriculum," "plenty of studio space," "encourages you to think," "calling professors by first names," "lots of performance and choreographic opportunities," "availability of professors," "friendliness," "opportunities for individual development," "faculty really care about students," "a focused group of dancers," "the flexibility of the program and eager assistance to help you reach your goal," "classes are challenging," "respect and closeness between teacher and students," "excellent technical facilities (lights, lightboard, video cameras, video editing equipment)," "chances to get involved," "great individualized attention," "great professors and performance opportunities," "friendly – easy to flourish, not very discouraging," "faculty encourages individuality," "healthy atmosphere regarding body shape and size," "supportive atmosphere," "guest artist every year," "ability for everyone to achieve their individual goals yet still be part of the group."
Dance Department Accreditation
National Association of Schools of Dance
Academic Clubs, Organizations, and Activities
- Prime Movers – social and educational club; responsible for concert of student work.
Special Help for Students
All faculty members are happy to give additional help to students who request it. Some faculty members offer coaching sessions before or after class to students needing extra help in technique. In academic courses, the dance department encourages study groups and provides assistance as needed.
Career Experience through Internships
All dance education (B.S.) majors student teach in a public school. Students in the community dance concentration teach in an appropriate community setting. Other internships are developed to meet student needs. Some students have done administrative internships with a dance company or other arts institution.