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This course introduces students with little to no prior dance background or training to the fundamental elements of modern dance technique. Emphasis is on anatomical alignment, building strength and somatic (mind-body) awareness as applied to dance movement. Students will explore elements of improvisation and dance composition, and total body awareness of the elements of space, time, design, energy, and force. The course also provides an introduction to the history and theory of modern dance as an art form.

Beginning Ballet is designed as a basic introduction to classical dance and a complement to Beginning Modern Dance. The key concepts of the course include: an appreciation for ballet theory and history, alignment and anatomy for the dancer (from a practical perspective), and an awareness of the performing "style" and aesthetic particular to ballet, all ingredients for critical discussion of ballet in relation to other arts.

This course presents an historical overview of dance as a performing art form. The class explores the evolution of European and American ballet as well as the integration of African American and European American dance traditions as they influence the development of modern dance in America in the 20th century. Through readings, video viewings, attending performances, individual research projects, and class discussions, students explore principles and traditions of concert dance in their historical and cultural contexts.

This course is an in-depth experiential study of skeletal structure, joint, and muscle function and the mechanics of movement. Incorporated into the course will be embodied awareness and strengthening practices, and integrated Pilates mat and reformer investigations. Anatomical fluency will be built through the context of somatic (mind-body) creative practices, self-exploration and expression, text and written analysis.