Taught by TBD

The Foundations of Dance & Performance course is an immersive, pre-professional training program designed to develop technically proficient, expressive, and well-rounded dancers. Rooted in both tradition and innovation, this course blends classical foundations, movement therapy, dance history, and performance practice to prepare students for a future in the performing arts.

Curriculum Overview:

Technical Foundations

Students will receive rigorous training in fundamental dance techniques, including:

• Ballet – Placement, alignment, and classical vocabulary
• Modern & Contemporary – Release technique, floor work, and expressive movement
• Jazz & Hip-Hop – Rhythm, musicality, and dynamic performance styles

Movement Therapy & Somatics

Understanding the body as an instrument is crucial for longevity in dance. This segment focuses on:

• Mind-Body Connection – Injury prevention, breathwork, and alignment-based movement
• Expressive Movement – Using dance as a tool for emotional release and storytelling
• Recovery & Self-Care – Techniques for maintaining physical and mental wellness

Dance History & Cultural Context

A dancer’s artistry is enriched by knowledge of the past. Students will explore:

• The Evolution of Classical & Contemporary Dance – From court ballet to postmodernism
• Global Influences – How African, Latin, and Indigenous movement traditions shape modern dance
• Iconic Choreographers & Innovators – Analyzing the works of pioneers like Alvin Ailey, Martha Graham, Bob Fosse, and Pina Bausch

Performance Practice & Artistic Development

The course culminates in a live performance showcase, where students apply their training in:

• Choreographic Exploration – Creating original work and interpreting repertory
• Stage Presence & Storytelling – Enhancing confidence and emotional connection with an audience
• Collaboration & Ensemble Work – Partnering, improvisation, and dynamic group performance

Who This Course is For

This program is designed for middle and high school students seeking an elite level of dance training that prepares them for pre-professional and collegiate dance programs. Whether aspiring to a career in performance, choreography, or movement therapy, students will leave with a strong technical foundation, historical knowledge, and a deeper connection to their artistry.

Prerequisites & Commitment:

• Prior dance experience is recommended but not required.
• Students must be committed to physical discipline, artistic exploration, and professional rehearsal etiquette.
• Performance participation is mandatory.