Fall Term Schedule
Fall 2024
| Number | Title | Instructor | Time |
|---|
|
DANC 106-1
–
T 11:05AM - 12:20PM
|
|
In this Pilates Lab, students will gain a working knowledge of the Pilates method as it relates to dance training. Students will be introduced to the 6 Essential Principles of Pilates — Centering, Concentration, Control, Precision, Breath, and Flow. Focus will be placed on becoming familiar with the equipment available and fostering the safe approach to its use. The course will address alignment, core support, stabilization, mobilization and flexibility as it integrates Pilates with other dance + conditioning practices. Only students who take Pilates Lab will be allowed to work independently in the lab. For majors/minors/and clusters or permission from the instructor.
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DANC 109-01
–
TR 9:40AM - 10:55AM
|
|
In this class, students will learn the basics of costume design for dance. Students will gain hands on experience in sewing and costume making as they explore elemental design concepts including color, texture, and line. Students will take on the role of costume designer for the Program of Dance + Movement’s dance concert, working with choreographers to envision, design and craft costumes.
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|
DANC 114-1
Cloria Sutton-Dowdell
TR 9:40AM - 10:55AM
|
|
Yoga is defined as union, the uniting together of ourselves in all aspects- body, mind, heart, spirit. This class introduces the student to a hatha yoga method which integrates a dynamic and engaging approach to living through practicing on and off the mat. The goal of this class is to learn how to create a deeper, more enlivened relationship to ones self through honoring ones abilities and limitations, while growing ones skills and sensitivity in the supportive environment of the class community. Students will engage with principles of attitude, alignment and action in a full range of hatha yoga poses, breathing techniques, readings on yoga philosophy, reflection, journaling and discussion. Through this ongoing process, students of yoga are encouraged to cultivate a more expansive and clear perception of self and others. Attendance in selected workshops and performances are required.
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DANC 130-1
Anne Wilcox
TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM
|
|
Body conditioning aimed to develop and strengthen specific musculature as it pertains to physical demands of dancers, athletes, martial artists, as well as those who wish to explore a mindful, physical and anatomically sound practice. Will introduce fundamental strength training based in Pilates, hands-on bodywork and basic movement sequences designed to help prevent injury as well as build core strength, endurance, coordination and overall physical mobility and stability. For majors/minors/and clusters or permission from the instructor.
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|
DANC 140-1
Cheryl Johnson
MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM
|
|
Development of basic skills, energy, strength, control, continuity, and rhythmic and bodily awareness through the teaching of rhythm tap dance. No previous tap dance experience is expected.
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|
DANC 145-1
Cheryl Johnson
MW 9:00AM - 10:15AM
|
|
Beginning Jazz Dance is an exploration of roots, techniques, and styles including vernacular jazz dance movements and their relationship to jazz music, pop culture, and musical theatre.
|
|
DANC 167-01
Anne Wilcox; Solveiga Armoskaite
MW 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
Ecolinguistics is a combined investigation of linguistics and movement. In the context of sustainable living, the course will examine how verbal and non-verbal expression manifest and shape overall well-being. To provide a specific focus to the course discussion, Ecolinguistics 167 aligns itself with the university’s annual Humanities’ theme. For the year 2022-23 the theme is, Futures (past and present). The course will address questions such as: How does language effect past and present social, political, and cultural attitudes? What language practices drop off and what remains through time? How does our verbal and non-verbal language enable harm or promote well-being? Classes regularly will include movement explorations, rich discussion, and collaborative activities to investigate aspects of self-expression and communication. Students create a final project around the Humanities themes that addresses how verbal language and non-verbal language converge and diverge from each other. The course brings students from multiple disciplines together to deepen their study of the mutually fascinating subject of language.
|
|
DANC 170-1
Debra Corea; Missy Smith
MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM
|
|
From subtle intrinsic movement to whole body integration, students will have the opportunity to experience the essence of several somatic modalities and discover what it means to be fully alive and resourced in movement and stillness. Mindful Awareness provides the foundation for listening inwardly to one’s immediate embodied experience. From this felt sense and the inherent wisdom of the body, students will be encouraged to explore various somatic approaches presented by the co-teachers. This work is powerful for dancers and for those on every academic track who are inquisitive in becoming more compassionate, open, present, resilient and centered. Experiential practice, readings, discussion, and reflective writing will comprise the course. Additional reading, writing and projects required at the graduate level. Open to Juniors and Seniors.
|
|
DANC 171-1
Todd Russell
MW 4:50PM - 7:20PM
|
|
An art form of self-defense with aerobic and dance elements that brings together a harmony of forces. Through history, movement and culture, students gain self-confidence, power, flexibility, endurance, and tools towards self-discovery. Open to all, Capoeira balances the body, mind, and soul and enables one to break through limits, revitalizing oneself for everyday life.
|
|
DANC 181-1
Kerfala Bangoura
MW 3:25PM - 4:40PM
|
|
Dynamic dance traditions of Guinea, West Africa. Accompanied by live music, students learn footwork and movements for several rhythms and acquire familiarity with the physical stance common to many styles of West African dance. Learn to execute movements together with the rhythmic foundation provided by our drummers and become familiar with the origins and cultural significance of each dance, and the songs that accompany them.
|
|
DANC 188-1
William Young
MW 8:00PM - 9:15PM
|
|
Originated in the boroughs of New York City, hip hop has grown to become a global phenomenon, influencing the lives of countless individuals with the core ideals of peace, unity, love and having fun. The class will provide a look into the historical origins and social importance of hip hop culture. The main focus will be on the original dance of hip hop culture - breaking, (also known as bboying). The class format is geared towards physical movement along with lectures, videos and opportunities to attend events in the community.
|
|
DANC 202-1
Mariah Steele
MW 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
This course offers an introduction to Peacebuilding and Conflict Studies, while asking how dance and movement practices experienced both as participants and spectators can actively participate in creating a better world for individuals and communities. With perspectives drawn from diverse fields including psychology, anthropology, sociology, physiology, education and dance, students learn how conflict depletes individuals ability to interact with others and how dance practices can help replenish these capacities. Students also develop their leadership and facilitation skills through designing and implementing relevant movement activities for their peers.
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|
DANC 204-01
Roy Wood
MW 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
Rooted in dance, the martial arts and studies of body development and awareness, students will use weight, momentum, and inertia to move each other freely through space. Solo and duet skills such as rolling, falling, balance, counter-balance, jumping, weight sharing, and spirals will be explored to facilitate open dancing. Reading and writing assignments will explore the history and practice of contact improvisation and how it deals with physical ability, gender, social connection, and the students relationship to their own culture. Classes will primarily involve physical movement, but some time will be spent on discussion of the class exercises, readings, and personal experiences. In addition to regular class time, additional labs or jams will be scheduled approximately biweekly.
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|
DANC 208-1
Robert Loughridge
TR 3:25PM - 4:40PM
|
|
A study of Taijiquan, (also known as Tai Chi Chuan or Tai Chi?), a traditional Chinese martial art, and its intimate relationship to the cosmological, physiological, and philosophical conceptions found in the culture and thought from which it emerged. The course investigates both the traditional Chinese philosophy and movement aspects of Tai Chi in order to better understand the integration of human body, mind, and spirit. The Simplified 24-Step Taijiquan (Ershisi Shi Taijiquan) is learned, along with the foundation skills of the Eight Methods or Energies (Ba Fa), Reeling Silk (Chan Si Gong), Pushing Hands (Tui Shou), and Standing Pole meditation (Zhan Zhuang). Tai Chi is not only a valuable cross training exercise for the dancer, but also provides training for relaxed strength, whole body coordination, balance, centered alignment, timing, weight shifting and moving with fluid grace.
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DANC 209-1
Donna DeLuca
TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM
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|
Qi Gong is a ancient Chinese internal art and an early forerunner of Tai Ji Quan. It is an Eastern Movement Discipline (EMD) which embodies a holism of Eastern martial arts and Eastern meditation. This course is a study of the philosophical roots, mindful practices and physical movements of Qi Gong in order to better understand and attain the integration of body, mind, and spirit. Topics will include traditional Chinese cultural concepts such as Yin-Yang theory, Five Element theory and Qi theory and their potential inclusion in modern Western culture. Qi Gong provides the dancer and athlete with healthy lifestyle practices and fitness training for better breathing, body awareness, focus and concentration, mental presence, imagery, and cultivating and expressing energy flow.
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DANC 218-1
Debra Corea
MW 8:40AM - 10:10AM
|
|
Cultivate awareness of the present moment, which is the only moment available to learn and live. This experiential course invites pausing and reflecting on the habits of mind. Students will be guided in mindfulness and insight techniques, relaxation, and other mindfulness practices. Incorporating mindfulness into daily life, class discussion, reading, and writing assignments will support understanding and personal growth. To facilitate establishing a personal practice, attendance will be required at meditation labs on Fridays online via Zoom. Cluster: Mind-Body Wellness (H1DAN009)
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DANC 218-2
Debra Corea
F 9:00AM - 9:50AM
|
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To facilitate establishing a personal practice, attendance will be required at meditation labs on Fridays online via Zoom.
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DANC 237-1
Ripp Greatbatch
TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM
|
|
This course will provide students with an experience of the creative process involving choreographic and improvisational play in professional-style dance rehearsals that are then carried through live performance. Working with the instructor and/or various collaborators, students will diversify their experiences as dancer collaborators and deepen their creative journey as artists. Post performance, the class will provide instruction in contemporary dance technique with an emphasis on performance skills.
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DANC 242-1
Seth Reiser
F 12:30PM - 3:30PM
|
|
This is an introductory design course aimed at giving students exposure to light as a medium, lighting design, lighting equipment, and visual story telling for performance through class discussion, and practical work. This is a 2 credit course which meets on Fridays 12:30pm-3:30pm. Students should also be prepared to have some flexibility in our effort to create/design dance videos during the semester. More details to follow on the first day of class.
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|
DANC 243-01
Missy Smith; Evelyne Leblanc-Roberge
TR 2:00PM - 4:40PM
|
|
Students will create and perform multi-media site-specific choreography and installations that will be captured and re-mixed. Geared for students of dance, film and photography, this course will explore creative collaboration, composition, lens based art and post-production. Students will be encouraged to curiously and playfully embody manipulations of movement material and play with technology to better understand different points of view and to explore the elements of site, space, shape, time and effort to see how they affect quality and content. Students will gain hands-on experience with digital photo and video equipment and editing software, and will serves roles both in front of and behind the camera. Studio Art lab fee applied.
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DANC 247-01
Anne Wilcox
TR 9:40AM - 10:55AM
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|
Moving Memories enables UR students and senior citizens the opportunity to participate in a mutually enriching and artful mission. Together seniors and students work to create a performative piece based on a significant memory from the seniors past. Both parties share in all aspects of decision- making: topic, aesthetics, stage craft, choreography, narrative, abstractions, music, and more. Students work with social workers and geriatric specialists prior to the partnership to enhance their understanding of senior living. Social bonding opportunities via outings and communal workshops are part of the semester experience as well. The final projects are performed in culminating concerts at the senior residence as well as at the University of Rochester.
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DANC 248-01
Rose Beauchamp
TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM
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|
Dance is powerful. Art is a tool that inspires social change. This course examines the relationship between social activism and artistic practice, exploring this integration in dance, art, music, and film. Through a combination of lecture and experiential learning, students will be invited to explore creative social engagement practices to understand the impact of arts in activism while also investigating the creative perspective in successful social movements. Emphasis will be placed on socially engaged art as a practice and philosophy, creative composition within effective social movements, and the power that art can have in promoting social change.
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DANC 250A-1
Ripp Greatbatch
MW 11:50AM - 1:35PM
|
|
In this course, students practice contemporary dance forms and examine concepts influenced by Laban/Bartenieff theories. Classes explore patterns of total body organization and connectivity, efficiency of movement, weight sensing, and somatic practices. Students develop self-awareness and technical skills while addressing artistry and self-expression. The course looks at Contemporary Dances rich history and its influence on 21st century forms. In addition to movement practice, students participate in discussions, workshops and performances.
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|
DANC 258-01
Janice Cook
F 12:30PM - 1:45PM
|
|
A participatory exploration of the body as a source of resilience, creativity, and effective action for environmental and social justice engaged students and community members. Through potent ecco-somatic practices, time in the natural world, embodied dialogue circles, and introspective inquiry, everyone’s commitment to their work in the world will be seen, supported, and cultivated. The structure will include one 6 hr and one 3-6 hr long Saturday/Sunday workshops, 9 weekly integration labs, embodied dialogue circles, and accountability partners. Students taking this for 2 credits will also have some relevant study materials, as well as a reflective expression of their learning from the class.
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DANC 260-01
Mariah Steele
F 10:00AM - 12:00PM
|
|
This course provides a forum for dance majors and minors, especially those with a concentration in Dance Studies, to develop their skills for conducting interdisciplinary, practice-based research. Through videos, readings and live events, we investigate the creative processes of professional dance artists making interdisciplinary work and explore in the studio how we might incorporate their processes into our own. We also consider how anthropologists, historians, scientists, educators and other scholars have approached studying dance from their interdisciplinary perspectives. Students enhance their practice-based research skills by developing and facilitating movement workshops, and choreographing a final project that translates research into a topic of their choice into a dance. Pre-requisites: Only available to majors and minors in the Program of Dance and Movement. Recommended to take Junior year.
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DANC 266-1
Rose Beauchamp
TR 9:40AM - 10:55AM
|
|
Continuing technical development and comprehension and integration of theory into practice is the focus in this course. Students will practice contemporary dance experientially through examining dance concepts influenced by Laban/Bartenieff theories and by exploring complex choreographic combinations. Classes will explore continuity and connectivity, patterns of total body organization, efficiency of movement, momentum, musculo-skeletal anatomy, strength, alignment, weight sensing, rhythm and somatic practices to develop and improve technical skills. We will also investigate subtlety and individual expression in performance. Experience in dance required. Having already taken DAN250 is helpful. Audits will be approved with permission for dance majors only.
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|
DANC 267-1
Rose Beauchamp
TR 9:40AM - 10:55AM
|
|
Continuing technical development and comprehension and integration of theory into practice is the focus in this course. Students will practice contemporary dance experientially through examining dance concepts influenced by Laban/Bartenieff theories and by exploring complex choreographic combinations. Classes will explore continuity and connectivity, patterns of total body organization, efficiency of movement, momentum, musculo-skeletal anatomy, strength, alignment, weight sensing, rhythm and somatic practices to deepen the investigation and mastery of technical skills. We will also continue to work on deepening the understanding or artistry as it pertains to subtlety and individual expression in performance. Pre-requisite: DAN 266: Intermediate Contemporary Dance
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|
DANC 276-1
Sara Penner
T 11:05AM - 12:20PM
|
|
“United States law says “Consent and agency over one’s body is a given in the work space.” How, then, can the performance workspace acknowledge and honor our boundaries, while nurturing us to risk, grow, and create our truest, bravest work? How can we as artists learn strategies to poetize the uncomfortable while honoring our boundaries? In this course, we study the history and evolution of consent in performance, allowing students to learn about personal agency, self-advocacy, and how to foster and navigate healthy collaboration across disciplines. The class will give young artists the space to discover and articulate their boundaries through a variety of group exercises and opportunities for self-reflection. Lectures will cover intimacy direction and rehearsal tools, discussions and guest lecturers on gender and feminist theory in relation to performance art, theatre, film and dance. This course is a must for artistic collaborators from directors & choreographers, to actors, musicians, technicians, and performance artists!”
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DANC 278-1
Missy Smith
TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM
|
|
Experiment with various methods of dance-making and focus on examining craft in the service of choreographic expression. You will be encouraged to curiously and playfully embody manipulations of movement material to better understand different points of view and to explore the elements of time, space, shape and effort to see how they affect quality and content. Drawing from dance, visual art, music, current events, writings and other sources, we will explore diverse approaches to creativity, experimentation and choreography.
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DANC 279-01
Missy Smith
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Dancer as Collaborator is a one-credit movement course engaging students as dancers for choreographic work generated from the DANC 278 Choreography class and/or the Program of Dance and Movements Fall Concert. DANC 279 students act as collaborators in that they embody and perform the choreographers concepts and vision and participate in creative process. Rehearsals will average twice weekly for the bulk of the semester. Pieces created in this course will be included in the Fall concert, the End of the Term Showings, and/or other Program approved performance opportunities throughout the semester. Enrollment is by permission of instructor. Please email requests to m.p.smith@rochester.edu.
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DANC 365A-1
Kerfala Bangoura
TR 6:45PM - 8:15PM
|
|
Sansifanyi is an ensemble that combines academic study and performance for beginner, intermediate, and advanced students of African drumming and dance. This course requires a high degree of student commitment. Dancers who enroll in Sansifanyi will learn choreographic techniques for West African dance and gain experience dancing as soloists, including developing their own solo material. They will also focus on rhythmic timing, and on developing advanced skills such as how to combine movement with drumming. In addition to the time students spend in class, dancers will have weekly assignments. Dancers must also be available for performances both on and off campus throughout the semester.
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DANC 365B-1
Kerfala Bangoura
TR 6:45PM - 8:15PM
|
|
Sansifanyi is an ensemble that combines academic study and performance for intermediate and advanced students of African drumming and dance. This course requires a high degree of student commitment. Dancers who enroll in Sansifanyi will learn choreographic techniques for West African dance and gain experience dancing as soloists, and developing their own solo material. They will also focus on rhythmic timing, and on advanced skills such as how to combine movement with drumming. In addition to the time students spend in class, dancers will have weekly assignments researching, reading, writing, viewing videos, text and article analysis, practicing, and choreographing various rhythms, songs, movements, and sequences. Dancers must also be available for performances both on and off campus throughout the semester. Students in section B are required to successfully complete section A of this course in order to register. In addition to gaining an in-depth understanding of the history and culture, students in this section will expand their repertoire and improve their skills at dancing/drumming and performing. Students in section B will also gain teaching assistant skills by helping the students in section A with select choreographies taught in the course. Prerequisite: DANC 365 A
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|
DANC 365C-1
Kerfala Bangoura
TR 6:45PM - 8:15PM
|
|
Sansifanyi is an ensemble that combines academic study and performance for intermediate and advanced students of African drumming and dance. This course requires a high degree of student commitment. Dancers who enroll in Sansifanyi will learn choreographic techniques for West African dance and gain experience dancing as soloists, and developing their own solo material. They will also focus on rhythmic timing, and on advanced skills such as how to combine movement with drumming. In addition to the time students spend in class, dancers will have weekly assignments researching, reading, writing, viewing videos, text and article analysis, practicing, and choreographing various rhythms, songs, movements, and sequences. Dancers must also be available for performances both on and off campus throughout the semester. Students in section C are required to successfully complete section A and B of this course in order to register. Students in this section will advance in their performance and choreographic skills. Students will continue to serve as peer teachers both in and out of the classroom sessions by assisting students in learning the dancing and drumming. Students in this section will oversee the basic teachings of this course including leading preparatory warm up phrases as well as assisting students with known repertory while new materials is being developed for the class by the instructor. Students in this section are required to work on a research-based capstone dance project throughout the semester. Prerequisites: DANC 365 A and DANC 365 B. Audits are only allowed after the course has been taken for credit
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DANC 377-01
Mariah Steele
TR 4:50PM - 6:05PM
|
|
What can we learn by bringing science and art into conversation? In this course, students use improvisational and compositional forms from the field of contemporary dance to engage with cutting-edge research about extreme densities, temperatures and pressures at URs Laboratory for Laser Energetics. This new frontier of physics is shedding light on the interior of planets and stars, new material states and the development of fusion energy here on earth. Guest speakers from LLE share their research, which students then investigate in the studio, creating dances related to the scientific material presented. Core questions include: what are the benefits, challenges and limitations of artistic inquiry for modeling, understanding and communicating scientific ideas? How can scientific concepts shape dance-making? What commonalities exist between the scientific process and the creative process? The course culminates with an informal performance of students choreography based on current LLE research.
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DANC 388W-01
Mariah Steele
TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
Students will write, choreograph, perform, implement and/or carry out research, performances and/or projects. All students, regardless of their trajectory (choreography, performance or interdisciplinary research) will write a senior thesis, develop & realize their projects under advisement, consider & discuss various career opportunities & develop curriculum vitae. Practice in grant-writing, budgeting, marketing & general arts management skills will be addressed when appropriate. Creative process, creative & critical thinking are a focus and are carried through to a culminating event, paper, or project. Internships, other coursework as part of the major, co-curricular dance activity, service learning and/or other related activity is meant to support this capstone research both in advance of and in simultaneity with this seminar.
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DANC 391-1
–
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the instructions for online independent study registration.
|
Fall 2024
| Number | Title | Instructor | Time |
|---|---|
| Monday and Wednesday | |
|
DANC 218-1
Debra Corea
|
|
|
Cultivate awareness of the present moment, which is the only moment available to learn and live. This experiential course invites pausing and reflecting on the habits of mind. Students will be guided in mindfulness and insight techniques, relaxation, and other mindfulness practices. Incorporating mindfulness into daily life, class discussion, reading, and writing assignments will support understanding and personal growth. To facilitate establishing a personal practice, attendance will be required at meditation labs on Fridays online via Zoom. Cluster: Mind-Body Wellness (H1DAN009)
|
|
|
DANC 145-1
Cheryl Johnson
|
|
|
Beginning Jazz Dance is an exploration of roots, techniques, and styles including vernacular jazz dance movements and their relationship to jazz music, pop culture, and musical theatre. |
|
|
DANC 140-1
Cheryl Johnson
|
|
|
Development of basic skills, energy, strength, control, continuity, and rhythmic and bodily awareness through the teaching of rhythm tap dance. No previous tap dance experience is expected. |
|
|
DANC 170-1
Debra Corea; Missy Smith
|
|
|
From subtle intrinsic movement to whole body integration, students will have the opportunity to experience the essence of several somatic modalities and discover what it means to be fully alive and resourced in movement and stillness. Mindful Awareness provides the foundation for listening inwardly to one’s immediate embodied experience. From this felt sense and the inherent wisdom of the body, students will be encouraged to explore various somatic approaches presented by the co-teachers. This work is powerful for dancers and for those on every academic track who are inquisitive in becoming more compassionate, open, present, resilient and centered. Experiential practice, readings, discussion, and reflective writing will comprise the course. Additional reading, writing and projects required at the graduate level. Open to Juniors and Seniors.
|
|
|
DANC 250A-1
Ripp Greatbatch
|
|
|
In this course, students practice contemporary dance forms and examine concepts influenced by Laban/Bartenieff theories. Classes explore patterns of total body organization and connectivity, efficiency of movement, weight sensing, and somatic practices. Students develop self-awareness and technical skills while addressing artistry and self-expression. The course looks at Contemporary Dances rich history and its influence on 21st century forms. In addition to movement practice, students participate in discussions, workshops and performances. |
|
|
DANC 167-01
Anne Wilcox; Solveiga Armoskaite
|
|
|
Ecolinguistics is a combined investigation of linguistics and movement. In the context of sustainable living, the course will examine how verbal and non-verbal expression manifest and shape overall well-being. To provide a specific focus to the course discussion, Ecolinguistics 167 aligns itself with the university’s annual Humanities’ theme. For the year 2022-23 the theme is, Futures (past and present). The course will address questions such as: How does language effect past and present social, political, and cultural attitudes? What language practices drop off and what remains through time? How does our verbal and non-verbal language enable harm or promote well-being? Classes regularly will include movement explorations, rich discussion, and collaborative activities to investigate aspects of self-expression and communication. Students create a final project around the Humanities themes that addresses how verbal language and non-verbal language converge and diverge from each other. The course brings students from multiple disciplines together to deepen their study of the mutually fascinating subject of language. |
|
|
DANC 202-1
Mariah Steele
|
|
|
This course offers an introduction to Peacebuilding and Conflict Studies, while asking how dance and movement practices experienced both as participants and spectators can actively participate in creating a better world for individuals and communities. With perspectives drawn from diverse fields including psychology, anthropology, sociology, physiology, education and dance, students learn how conflict depletes individuals ability to interact with others and how dance practices can help replenish these capacities. Students also develop their leadership and facilitation skills through designing and implementing relevant movement activities for their peers. |
|
|
DANC 204-01
Roy Wood
|
|
|
Rooted in dance, the martial arts and studies of body development and awareness, students will use weight, momentum, and inertia to move each other freely through space. Solo and duet skills such as rolling, falling, balance, counter-balance, jumping, weight sharing, and spirals will be explored to facilitate open dancing. Reading and writing assignments will explore the history and practice of contact improvisation and how it deals with physical ability, gender, social connection, and the students relationship to their own culture. Classes will primarily involve physical movement, but some time will be spent on discussion of the class exercises, readings, and personal experiences. In addition to regular class time, additional labs or jams will be scheduled approximately biweekly. |
|
|
DANC 181-1
Kerfala Bangoura
|
|
|
Dynamic dance traditions of Guinea, West Africa. Accompanied by live music, students learn footwork and movements for several rhythms and acquire familiarity with the physical stance common to many styles of West African dance. Learn to execute movements together with the rhythmic foundation provided by our drummers and become familiar with the origins and cultural significance of each dance, and the songs that accompany them. |
|
|
DANC 171-1
Todd Russell
|
|
|
An art form of self-defense with aerobic and dance elements that brings together a harmony of forces. Through history, movement and culture, students gain self-confidence, power, flexibility, endurance, and tools towards self-discovery. Open to all, Capoeira balances the body, mind, and soul and enables one to break through limits, revitalizing oneself for everyday life. |
|
|
DANC 188-1
William Young
|
|
|
Originated in the boroughs of New York City, hip hop has grown to become a global phenomenon, influencing the lives of countless individuals with the core ideals of peace, unity, love and having fun. The class will provide a look into the historical origins and social importance of hip hop culture. The main focus will be on the original dance of hip hop culture - breaking, (also known as bboying). The class format is geared towards physical movement along with lectures, videos and opportunities to attend events in the community. |
|
| Tuesday | |
|
DANC 106-1
–
|
|
|
In this Pilates Lab, students will gain a working knowledge of the Pilates method as it relates to dance training. Students will be introduced to the 6 Essential Principles of Pilates — Centering, Concentration, Control, Precision, Breath, and Flow. Focus will be placed on becoming familiar with the equipment available and fostering the safe approach to its use. The course will address alignment, core support, stabilization, mobilization and flexibility as it integrates Pilates with other dance + conditioning practices. Only students who take Pilates Lab will be allowed to work independently in the lab. For majors/minors/and clusters or permission from the instructor. |
|
|
DANC 276-1
Sara Penner
|
|
|
“United States law says “Consent and agency over one’s body is a given in the work space.” How, then, can the performance workspace acknowledge and honor our boundaries, while nurturing us to risk, grow, and create our truest, bravest work? How can we as artists learn strategies to poetize the uncomfortable while honoring our boundaries? In this course, we study the history and evolution of consent in performance, allowing students to learn about personal agency, self-advocacy, and how to foster and navigate healthy collaboration across disciplines. The class will give young artists the space to discover and articulate their boundaries through a variety of group exercises and opportunities for self-reflection. Lectures will cover intimacy direction and rehearsal tools, discussions and guest lecturers on gender and feminist theory in relation to performance art, theatre, film and dance. This course is a must for artistic collaborators from directors & choreographers, to actors, musicians, technicians, and performance artists!”
|
|
| Tuesday and Thursday | |
|
DANC 109-01
–
|
|
|
In this class, students will learn the basics of costume design for dance. Students will gain hands on experience in sewing and costume making as they explore elemental design concepts including color, texture, and line. Students will take on the role of costume designer for the Program of Dance + Movement’s dance concert, working with choreographers to envision, design and craft costumes. |
|
|
DANC 114-1
Cloria Sutton-Dowdell
|
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Yoga is defined as union, the uniting together of ourselves in all aspects- body, mind, heart, spirit. This class introduces the student to a hatha yoga method which integrates a dynamic and engaging approach to living through practicing on and off the mat. The goal of this class is to learn how to create a deeper, more enlivened relationship to ones self through honoring ones abilities and limitations, while growing ones skills and sensitivity in the supportive environment of the class community. Students will engage with principles of attitude, alignment and action in a full range of hatha yoga poses, breathing techniques, readings on yoga philosophy, reflection, journaling and discussion. Through this ongoing process, students of yoga are encouraged to cultivate a more expansive and clear perception of self and others. Attendance in selected workshops and performances are required. |
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DANC 247-01
Anne Wilcox
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Moving Memories enables UR students and senior citizens the opportunity to participate in a mutually enriching and artful mission. Together seniors and students work to create a performative piece based on a significant memory from the seniors past. Both parties share in all aspects of decision- making: topic, aesthetics, stage craft, choreography, narrative, abstractions, music, and more. Students work with social workers and geriatric specialists prior to the partnership to enhance their understanding of senior living. Social bonding opportunities via outings and communal workshops are part of the semester experience as well. The final projects are performed in culminating concerts at the senior residence as well as at the University of Rochester. |
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DANC 266-1
Rose Beauchamp
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Continuing technical development and comprehension and integration of theory into practice is the focus in this course. Students will practice contemporary dance experientially through examining dance concepts influenced by Laban/Bartenieff theories and by exploring complex choreographic combinations. Classes will explore continuity and connectivity, patterns of total body organization, efficiency of movement, momentum, musculo-skeletal anatomy, strength, alignment, weight sensing, rhythm and somatic practices to develop and improve technical skills. We will also investigate subtlety and individual expression in performance. Experience in dance required. Having already taken DAN250 is helpful. Audits will be approved with permission for dance majors only. |
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DANC 267-1
Rose Beauchamp
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Continuing technical development and comprehension and integration of theory into practice is the focus in this course. Students will practice contemporary dance experientially through examining dance concepts influenced by Laban/Bartenieff theories and by exploring complex choreographic combinations. Classes will explore continuity and connectivity, patterns of total body organization, efficiency of movement, momentum, musculo-skeletal anatomy, strength, alignment, weight sensing, rhythm and somatic practices to deepen the investigation and mastery of technical skills. We will also continue to work on deepening the understanding or artistry as it pertains to subtlety and individual expression in performance. Pre-requisite: DAN 266: Intermediate Contemporary Dance |
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DANC 248-01
Rose Beauchamp
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Dance is powerful. Art is a tool that inspires social change. This course examines the relationship between social activism and artistic practice, exploring this integration in dance, art, music, and film. Through a combination of lecture and experiential learning, students will be invited to explore creative social engagement practices to understand the impact of arts in activism while also investigating the creative perspective in successful social movements. Emphasis will be placed on socially engaged art as a practice and philosophy, creative composition within effective social movements, and the power that art can have in promoting social change. |
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DANC 278-1
Missy Smith
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Experiment with various methods of dance-making and focus on examining craft in the service of choreographic expression. You will be encouraged to curiously and playfully embody manipulations of movement material to better understand different points of view and to explore the elements of time, space, shape and effort to see how they affect quality and content. Drawing from dance, visual art, music, current events, writings and other sources, we will explore diverse approaches to creativity, experimentation and choreography. |
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DANC 130-1
Anne Wilcox
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Body conditioning aimed to develop and strengthen specific musculature as it pertains to physical demands of dancers, athletes, martial artists, as well as those who wish to explore a mindful, physical and anatomically sound practice. Will introduce fundamental strength training based in Pilates, hands-on bodywork and basic movement sequences designed to help prevent injury as well as build core strength, endurance, coordination and overall physical mobility and stability. For majors/minors/and clusters or permission from the instructor. |
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DANC 237-1
Ripp Greatbatch
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This course will provide students with an experience of the creative process involving choreographic and improvisational play in professional-style dance rehearsals that are then carried through live performance. Working with the instructor and/or various collaborators, students will diversify their experiences as dancer collaborators and deepen their creative journey as artists. Post performance, the class will provide instruction in contemporary dance technique with an emphasis on performance skills. |
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DANC 209-1
Donna DeLuca
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Qi Gong is a ancient Chinese internal art and an early forerunner of Tai Ji Quan. It is an Eastern Movement Discipline (EMD) which embodies a holism of Eastern martial arts and Eastern meditation. This course is a study of the philosophical roots, mindful practices and physical movements of Qi Gong in order to better understand and attain the integration of body, mind, and spirit. Topics will include traditional Chinese cultural concepts such as Yin-Yang theory, Five Element theory and Qi theory and their potential inclusion in modern Western culture. Qi Gong provides the dancer and athlete with healthy lifestyle practices and fitness training for better breathing, body awareness, focus and concentration, mental presence, imagery, and cultivating and expressing energy flow. |
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DANC 243-01
Missy Smith; Evelyne Leblanc-Roberge
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Students will create and perform multi-media site-specific choreography and installations that will be captured and re-mixed. Geared for students of dance, film and photography, this course will explore creative collaboration, composition, lens based art and post-production. Students will be encouraged to curiously and playfully embody manipulations of movement material and play with technology to better understand different points of view and to explore the elements of site, space, shape, time and effort to see how they affect quality and content. Students will gain hands-on experience with digital photo and video equipment and editing software, and will serves roles both in front of and behind the camera. Studio Art lab fee applied. |
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DANC 388W-01
Mariah Steele
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Students will write, choreograph, perform, implement and/or carry out research, performances and/or projects. All students, regardless of their trajectory (choreography, performance or interdisciplinary research) will write a senior thesis, develop & realize their projects under advisement, consider & discuss various career opportunities & develop curriculum vitae. Practice in grant-writing, budgeting, marketing & general arts management skills will be addressed when appropriate. Creative process, creative & critical thinking are a focus and are carried through to a culminating event, paper, or project. Internships, other coursework as part of the major, co-curricular dance activity, service learning and/or other related activity is meant to support this capstone research both in advance of and in simultaneity with this seminar. |
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DANC 208-1
Robert Loughridge
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A study of Taijiquan, (also known as Tai Chi Chuan or Tai Chi?), a traditional Chinese martial art, and its intimate relationship to the cosmological, physiological, and philosophical conceptions found in the culture and thought from which it emerged. The course investigates both the traditional Chinese philosophy and movement aspects of Tai Chi in order to better understand the integration of human body, mind, and spirit. The Simplified 24-Step Taijiquan (Ershisi Shi Taijiquan) is learned, along with the foundation skills of the Eight Methods or Energies (Ba Fa), Reeling Silk (Chan Si Gong), Pushing Hands (Tui Shou), and Standing Pole meditation (Zhan Zhuang). Tai Chi is not only a valuable cross training exercise for the dancer, but also provides training for relaxed strength, whole body coordination, balance, centered alignment, timing, weight shifting and moving with fluid grace. |
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DANC 377-01
Mariah Steele
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What can we learn by bringing science and art into conversation? In this course, students use improvisational and compositional forms from the field of contemporary dance to engage with cutting-edge research about extreme densities, temperatures and pressures at URs Laboratory for Laser Energetics. This new frontier of physics is shedding light on the interior of planets and stars, new material states and the development of fusion energy here on earth. Guest speakers from LLE share their research, which students then investigate in the studio, creating dances related to the scientific material presented. Core questions include: what are the benefits, challenges and limitations of artistic inquiry for modeling, understanding and communicating scientific ideas? How can scientific concepts shape dance-making? What commonalities exist between the scientific process and the creative process? The course culminates with an informal performance of students choreography based on current LLE research. |
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DANC 365A-1
Kerfala Bangoura
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Sansifanyi is an ensemble that combines academic study and performance for beginner, intermediate, and advanced students of African drumming and dance. This course requires a high degree of student commitment. Dancers who enroll in Sansifanyi will learn choreographic techniques for West African dance and gain experience dancing as soloists, including developing their own solo material. They will also focus on rhythmic timing, and on developing advanced skills such as how to combine movement with drumming. In addition to the time students spend in class, dancers will have weekly assignments. Dancers must also be available for performances both on and off campus throughout the semester. |
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DANC 365B-1
Kerfala Bangoura
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Sansifanyi is an ensemble that combines academic study and performance for intermediate and advanced students of African drumming and dance. This course requires a high degree of student commitment. Dancers who enroll in Sansifanyi will learn choreographic techniques for West African dance and gain experience dancing as soloists, and developing their own solo material. They will also focus on rhythmic timing, and on advanced skills such as how to combine movement with drumming. In addition to the time students spend in class, dancers will have weekly assignments researching, reading, writing, viewing videos, text and article analysis, practicing, and choreographing various rhythms, songs, movements, and sequences. Dancers must also be available for performances both on and off campus throughout the semester. Students in section B are required to successfully complete section A of this course in order to register. In addition to gaining an in-depth understanding of the history and culture, students in this section will expand their repertoire and improve their skills at dancing/drumming and performing. Students in section B will also gain teaching assistant skills by helping the students in section A with select choreographies taught in the course. Prerequisite: DANC 365 A |
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DANC 365C-1
Kerfala Bangoura
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Sansifanyi is an ensemble that combines academic study and performance for intermediate and advanced students of African drumming and dance. This course requires a high degree of student commitment. Dancers who enroll in Sansifanyi will learn choreographic techniques for West African dance and gain experience dancing as soloists, and developing their own solo material. They will also focus on rhythmic timing, and on advanced skills such as how to combine movement with drumming. In addition to the time students spend in class, dancers will have weekly assignments researching, reading, writing, viewing videos, text and article analysis, practicing, and choreographing various rhythms, songs, movements, and sequences. Dancers must also be available for performances both on and off campus throughout the semester. Students in section C are required to successfully complete section A and B of this course in order to register. Students in this section will advance in their performance and choreographic skills. Students will continue to serve as peer teachers both in and out of the classroom sessions by assisting students in learning the dancing and drumming. Students in this section will oversee the basic teachings of this course including leading preparatory warm up phrases as well as assisting students with known repertory while new materials is being developed for the class by the instructor. Students in this section are required to work on a research-based capstone dance project throughout the semester. Prerequisites: DANC 365 A and DANC 365 B. Audits are only allowed after the course has been taken for credit |
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DANC 218-2
Debra Corea
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To facilitate establishing a personal practice, attendance will be required at meditation labs on Fridays online via Zoom.
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DANC 260-01
Mariah Steele
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This course provides a forum for dance majors and minors, especially those with a concentration in Dance Studies, to develop their skills for conducting interdisciplinary, practice-based research. Through videos, readings and live events, we investigate the creative processes of professional dance artists making interdisciplinary work and explore in the studio how we might incorporate their processes into our own. We also consider how anthropologists, historians, scientists, educators and other scholars have approached studying dance from their interdisciplinary perspectives. Students enhance their practice-based research skills by developing and facilitating movement workshops, and choreographing a final project that translates research into a topic of their choice into a dance. Pre-requisites: Only available to majors and minors in the Program of Dance and Movement. Recommended to take Junior year. |
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DANC 242-1
Seth Reiser
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This is an introductory design course aimed at giving students exposure to light as a medium, lighting design, lighting equipment, and visual story telling for performance through class discussion, and practical work. This is a 2 credit course which meets on Fridays 12:30pm-3:30pm. Students should also be prepared to have some flexibility in our effort to create/design dance videos during the semester. More details to follow on the first day of class. |
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DANC 258-01
Janice Cook
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A participatory exploration of the body as a source of resilience, creativity, and effective action for environmental and social justice engaged students and community members. Through potent ecco-somatic practices, time in the natural world, embodied dialogue circles, and introspective inquiry, everyone’s commitment to their work in the world will be seen, supported, and cultivated. The structure will include one 6 hr and one 3-6 hr long Saturday/Sunday workshops, 9 weekly integration labs, embodied dialogue circles, and accountability partners. Students taking this for 2 credits will also have some relevant study materials, as well as a reflective expression of their learning from the class. |
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