The Creative Process
In this course, students will have the opportunity to dig deeply into their own creativity and explore the processes by which ideas emerge and are given shape in the arts. The experiential nature of this course integrates cognition and action, mind and body. Students will engage a range of modes of discovering, knowing, and communicating, which are designed to push them beyond their present state of awareness and level of confidence in their creative power. Practical work will be closely accompanied by readings and journaling, culminating with the creation and performance of a short project. (First- and second-year students only; Not open to students who have taken FYSE 1364) 3 hrs. lect.

Spring 2009, Fall 2009, Spring 2010, Fall 2010, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Winter 2012, Spring 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2013, Spring 2014

More Information »

Collaboration in the Arts: The Creative Process Continues
Taking the experience and knowledge produced in ARDV 0116, The Creative Process, as our starting place, we will collaborate to build more extended, complex, multi-media projects- including performances, installations, and hybrid works. We will research artistic collaboration, that slippery creative relationship with models in every variety of art production, to inspire our hands-on investigations and put them into historical and cultural context. Readings will come from recent literature on collaboration in the arts. Journals, short research papers/presentations, and daily in-class experimentation will culminate in substantial final projects that are original, collaborative, and unpredictable. (ARDV 0116, ARDV 0117, or equivalent, or by approval. Additional coursework in the arts is encouraged) 3 hrs. lect.

Fall 2011, Fall 2013

More Information »

Introduction to Dance
This entry-level dance course introduces movement techniques, improvisation/composition, performance, experiential anatomy, and history of 20th century American modern dance. Students develop flexibility, strength, coordination, rhythm, and vocabulary in the modern idiom. Concepts of time, space, energy, and choreographic form are presented through improvisation and become the basis for a final choreographic project. Readings, research, and reflective and critical writing about dance performance round out the experience. 2 hrs. lect./3 hrs. lab

Spring 2009, Fall 2009, Spring 2010, Fall 2010, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Spring 2013, Fall 2013, Spring 2014

More Information »

From Africa to the Americas: Moving from Our Core
This course is an introduction to dance emphasizing the influence of traditions from the African Diaspora on contemporary modern dance. Technique sessions incorporate styles from West Africa and Central and South America with performance work. Discussion of readings on the history and current practice of movement forms originating in Africa, as well as on the work of artists developing fusion styles, supports written and creative work. Compositional studies explore the intersection between technique, history/theory, and performance. (No previous dance experience required.) 2 hrs. lect./3 hrs. lab

Fall 2009, Fall 2011, Fall 2012, Spring 2014

More Information »

Russian Ballet and the Creation of Modern Culture (in English)
An exploration of the phenomenon of Serge Diaghilev's Ballets Russes which, between 1909 and 1929, exerted a pervasive influence over the creation of modern culture in the Western world. We will investigate the methods employed by Diaghilev to bring together innovative choreographers, composers, artists, and writers (Fokine, Nijinsky, Stravinsky, Prokofiev, Satie, Picasso, Cocteau, etc.) to create collaborative works of art that defined modernism, and the historical context within which these works were created. Readings, music, art, film/video and other sources, will shed light on the relationship between modernism and World War I, "Russianness," commercialism, neo-classicism, commedia dell'arte, gender, and the "homosexual aesthetic". No knowledge of ballet or Russian is required. 3 hrs. lect./disc., screening

Spring 2009, Fall 2011

More Information »

Dance & Embodied Knowledge in the Indian Context
In this theory-practice course in religion, dance, and South Asian studies we will analyze the nature of embodied knowledge and the creative power of performance in the Indian context. During two class sessions per week we will contextualize embodied movement with discussions of Hindu mythology, Hindu devotionalism (bhakti), Sanskrit aesthetic theory (rasa), western performance theories, and Indian classical dance history. One class session per week will be devoted to learning basic movements in south Indian classical dance, culminating in an informal performance of one dance piece. We will highlight the difference ways in which the body and dance are perceived in religious mythology, aesthetic theory, historical context, and dance movement. No dance experience required. 2 hrs. lect./disc., 1 hr. dance

Fall 2013

More Information »

African Music and Dance Performance
This course will introduce students to various techniques of performing East African (primarily Ugandan) musical and dance traditions through regular rehearsals, culminating in an end-of-semester concert. As an ensemble, we will learn and master how to play and sing/dance to bow-harps, thumb-pianos, xylophones, tube-fiddles, bowl-lyres, gourd shakers, reed-box rattles, ankle bells, and various types of drums. Prior knowledge of performing African music and dance is not required.

Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Spring 2013, Fall 2013, Spring 2014

More Information »

Advanced Beginning Dance I
This is the first course in the studio sequence for students entering Middlebury with significant previous dance experience. It is also the course sequence for those continuing on from DANC 0160 or DANC 0161 and provides grounding in the craft of modern dance needed to proceed to more advanced levels. Modern dance movement techniques are strengthened to support an emerging individual vocabulary and facility with composition. Students regularly create and revise movement studies that focus on the basic elements of choreography and the relationship of music and dance. Readings, journals, and formal critiques of video and live performance contribute to the exploration of dance aesthetics and develop critical expertise. (DANC 0160 or by approval) 3 hrs. lect./3 hrs. lab

Spring 2009, Fall 2009, Spring 2010, Fall 2010, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Spring 2013, Fall 2013, Spring 2014

More Information »

Advanced Beginning Dance II
A continuation of DANC 0260. (DANC 0260) 3 hrs. lect./3 hrs. lab

Spring 2009, Fall 2009, Spring 2010, Fall 2010, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Spring 2013, Fall 2013, Spring 2014

More Information »

Performing Culture: America's Dancing Bodies
This course (which includes film screenings) explores historical and cultural perspectives on American concert and social dance, emphasizing modern and postmodern forms from the late-1950s through the present. Our examination of this period of near-constant change will address a number of questions about "moving bodies" and their relationship to both political and artistic transformations occurring during this time. We will be especially concerned with the themes of gender, race, identity, and community. The course emphasizes cultural analysis, but it will also involve students in movement as a means of addressing the material and bridging scholarly and "embodied" forms of exploration and analysis. 3 hrs.

Spring 2010

More Information »

Body and Earth
This course has been designed for students with an interest in the dialogue between the science of body and the science of place. Its goals are to enhance movement efficiency through experiential anatomy and to heighten participants' sensitivity to natural processes and forms in the Vermont bioregion. Weekly movement sessions, essays by nature writers, and writing assignments about place encourage synthesis of personal experience with factual information. Beyond the exams and formal writing assignments, members of the class will present a final research project and maintain an exploratory journal. 3 hrs. lect. 1 hr. lab.

Spring 2010, Fall 2010, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Fall 2013, Spring 2014

More Information »

Movement Intentionality for the Stage
This course is intended for students seeking focused attention on the expressive potential of the body. We examine processes that will enable students to develop short, original performance pieces rooted in kinesthetic experience, including movement, voice, and visual perception. We will employ improvisational methods, such as Contact Improvisation and Viewpoints, to generate and experiment with physical language, text, and other compositional components of performance. Discussion of readings in the history and current practice of performance art and improvisation, drawn from the literature on dance, theatre, music, and visual arts, will support creative work. Previous experience in theatre or dance valuable but not required. 3 hrs. lect.

Spring 2009, Spring 2011, Spring 2012, Spring 2014

More Information »

From George Washington to John Travolta: Social Dance in Popular Culture
In this course we will examine religion, gender, morality, etiquette, politics, and other cultural and societal issues in American history as they intersect in the public sphere through the activity of social dance. Coursework will involve the investigation of primary source materials including contemporary letters and diaries, dance manuals, newspaper and journal reports, and accounts of social dance in American literature. Students will read texts on dance and cultural history, view images of dance in American art and popular film, and listen to four centuries of American dance music. 3 hrs. lect./2 hrs. screening

Fall 2009, Fall 2010, Spring 2013

More Information »

Modern Dance History in the United States: Early Influences to Postmodern Transformations
In this seminar we will focus on the emergence and development of 20th century American concert dance--especially modern and postmodern dance forms--from the confluence of European folk and court dance, African and Caribbean influences, and other American cultural dynamics. We will look at ways in which dance reflects, responds to, and creates its cultural milieu, with special attention to issues of gender, race/ethnicity, and class. Readings, video, and live performance illuminate the artistic products and processes of choreographers whose works mark particular periods or turning points in this unfolding story. Our study is intended to support informed critical articulations and an understanding of the complexity of dance as art. 3 hrs. lect./2 hrs. screen.

Spring 2009, Fall 2010, Fall 2012

More Information »

Ethics, Aesthetics, and the Moving Body
What are you willing to do to "look right?" In this course we will investigate how questions about what is good, and what is beautiful, affect how we treat our bodies. We will explore somatic techniques, in which the body is used as a vehicle for understanding compassion. In contrast, we will examine the extreme physical regimens of concert dance techniques that originated in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, in which the body is seen as an object to be molded into an aesthetic ideal. The course will utilize readings in philosophy and dance history, reflective and research based writing, and movement practices. (No previous experience necessary) 3 hrs. lect./1 hr. lab

Spring 2013

More Information »

Intermediate/Advanced Dance I
This course involves concentrated intermediate-advanced level work in contemporary dance technique and choreography culminating in production. Theoretical issues of importance to the dancer/choreographer are addressed through readings, writings and practice. (DANC 0261 or by waiver; this course may be taken in any sequence with DANC 0361, DANC 0460, DANC 0461) 3 hrs. lect./3 hrs. lab

Fall 2009, Fall 2011, Fall 2013

More Information »

Intermediate/Advanced Dance II: Dance for the Camera
This course will involve concentrated intermediate-advanced level work in contemporary dance technique and choreography specifically designed for the frame of the camera. In this course we will explore how to best capture and edit dance on video. We will exercise and refine our visual sensibility through the exploration of basic digital editing techniques and mastery of fundamental camera mechanics. Texts, written work, and regular practice will focus on the creative process in dance and film making. This will culminate in a screening/performance at the end of the semester. (DANC 0261; this course may be taken in any sequence with DANC 0360, DANC 0460, and DANC 0461) 3 hrs lect./3 hrs lab

Spring 2010, Spring 2012, Spring 2014

More Information »

Anatomy and Kinesiology
This course offers an in-depth experiential study of skeletal structure, and includes aspects of the muscular, organ, endocrine, nervous, and fluid systems of the human body. The goal is to enhance efficiency of movement and alignment through laboratory sessions, supported by assigned readings, exams, and written projects. (Not open to first-year students) 3 hrs. lect.

Spring 2009, Spring 2010, Spring 2011, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Spring 2013, Fall 2013, Spring 2014

More Information »

Nature and Creativity
In this course we will explore the relationship between the creative process and natural processes and phenomena. Among our activities will be: weekly outdoor sessions of observation, journal writing, and sketching; reading of essays by contemporary nature writers and scientists; and movement practices including the discipline of Authentic Movement focusing on the connection between the human body and the environment. Background in Environmental Studies plus previous experience in one of the arts is recommended. 3 hrs. lect./disc. 1 hr. lab

Fall 2009

More Information »

Dance Company of Middlebury
Dancers work with the artistic director and guest choreographers as part of a dance company, learning, interpreting, rehearsing, and performing dances created for performance and tour. Those receiving credit can expect four to six rehearsals weekly. Appropriate written work, concert and film viewing, and attendance in departmental technique classes are required. Auditions for company members are held in the fall semester for the year. One credit will be given for two terms of participation. Performances and tour are scheduled in January. (Limited to sophomores through seniors, by audition.) (DANC 0260; Approval required) 4 hrs. lect./4 hrs. lab

Fall 2009, Fall 2010, Fall 2011, Fall 2012, Fall 2013

More Information »

Dance Company of Middlebury
Dancers work with the artistic director and guest choreographers as part of a dance company, learning, interpreting, rehearsing, and performing repertory dances. Those receiving credit can expect daily rehearsals plus technique classes, campus performance, and tour. Appropriate written work is required. Auditions are held in the fall semester for the full year; one credit will be given for two semesters of participation. (Approval required; limited to sophomores through seniors by audition).

Spring 2009, Winter 2010, Winter 2011, Winter 2012, Winter 2013

More Information »

Special Topics in Dance: Independent Study
(Approval required)

Spring 2009, Fall 2009, Winter 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2010, Winter 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Winter 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2013, Spring 2014

More Information »

Intermediate/Advanced Dance III: The Place of Dance
In this course we will investigate three aspects of place in relation to dance: where we source movement, the relevance of dance in culture, and the effects of place on the moving dancing body. Material covered will include body systems dance technique at the intermediate/advanced level, improvisation and composition toward choreography and site specific work, readings and reflective writing, and performance viewing. The course culminates in formal and informal showings of performance work. The emergence of a personal philosophy and dance aesthetic will be engaged and formally articulated in writing. (DANC 0261; this course may be taken in any sequence with DANC 0360, DANC 0361, DANC 0461) 4.5 hrs. lect./2 hrs. lab.

Fall 2010, Fall 2012

More Information »

Intermediate/Advanced Dance IV: Performance Improvisation
This is rigorous training in techniques that prepare a student for the challenge of simultaneously conceiving, composing, and performing strong, theatrical dances, on the spot, alone and in ensemble. Body is developed as an articulate, responsive instrument. Mind is honed toward quick, clear perception of potential form, willingness to act and react. Personal philosophy and dance aesthetic are cultivated and formally articulated in writing. Musicians proficient with their instrument and able to read music are strongly encouraged to seek admission. (Required for dancers: DANC 0261 or by waiver; this course may be taken in any sequence with DANC 0360, DANC 0361, DANC 0460) 6 hrs lect.

Spring 2011, Spring 2013

More Information »

Independent Project
(Approval Required)

Spring 2009, Fall 2009, Winter 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2010, Winter 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Winter 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2013, Spring 2014

More Information »

Independent Project
(Approval Required)

Spring 2009, Fall 2009, Winter 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2010, Winter 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Winter 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2013, Spring 2014

More Information »

Culture as Creative Process
This course is designed for students from a broad range of backgrounds and academic disciplines who are interested in developing their unique creative process, researching their cultural history, and creating a performance project that reflects the intersection of the two. Improvisatory tools and guided imagery provide methods for developing creative work. Weekly classes in movement from the African Diaspora, regular journaling, work-in-progress showings, and feedback sessions add further depth. Students will also generate a bibliography relating to their cultural history and present the results of their research in written form. (Not open to students who have taken ARDV 0117)

Winter 2010

More Information »

Community Dialogue Through the Arts
In this course students will learn both the theory and the practice of community dialogue through the arts. We will study the roles of community organizers, activists, artists, community members, performers, and scholars in the field of community engagement, such as The Liz Lerman Dance Exchange, Urban Bush Women, Crossroads Theatre, and Jan Cohen-Cruz of Imagining America. Students will collaborate to design, plan, implement, and document a community engagement project aimed at making tangible change that continues after the course is completed. Readings will be drawn from Radical Street Performance, Visions of Culture, and Imagining America Publications. This course counts as an elective towards the Dance major.

Winter 2012

More Information »

Defying Gravity: Contact Improvisation
In this course we will learn to roll, fall, slide, give and take weight, and defy gravity as we develop a physical vocabulary for an athletic partnering technique known as Contact Improvisation (CI). We will build a sense trust of within the class community and develop the skills necessary to take dramatic risks in our dancing and broaden our range as physical performers. The history and philosophy of CI will be covered through various texts including Sharing the Dance and Contact Quarterly. Previous experience is not required, but a hunger to move is a must!

Winter 2010

More Information »

Experiential Anatomy and Yoga
Experiential anatomy involves learning about the body through the body. In this anatomy and kinesiology course, we will study the skeletal system, plus aspects of the neuro-muscular, endocrine, organ, and circulatory systems. Yoga labs and a final creative project will extend the coursework into movement. Required texts will include The Anatomy Coloring Book; Bodystories; Yoga: Body, Mind, Spirit, and Light on Life. (This course is not open to students who have taken DANC 0376.) Each student will be expected to purchase a yoga mat, costing approximately $25.00.

Winter 2010, Winter 2012

More Information »

30/30: Meditations on the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights
This course is designed to offer students an opportunity to work intensively together to build a performance project inspired by the UN Declaration of Human Rights. Each student will research specific domestic or international human rights issues and develop that material into character studies and personal portraits. Daily physical, vocal, and creative process exercises will support the transformation of research into thirty artistic “moments” for presentation. Requirements will include a journal, research paper, final showing, and summation paper. No previous experience in the arts is required.

Winter 2011

More Information »

Dancing and Dance Making
This entry-level dance class will include movement improvisation followed by compositional investigations that culminate in informal showings. Improvisational techniques cultivate a “released” or non-habitual dancing body free to move on and off balance with energy, rhythmic sharpness, and fluid range. In composition, students will experiment and collaborate to create solo and partnered work. Readings, research, performance viewing, and reflective writing will round out the experience. This course counts as elective credit towards the Dance major.

Winter 2013

More Information »