Dance study at Middlebury cultivates artistry, creativity and knowledge through critical study and regular practice in contemporary dance techniques, improvisation and choreography, history, theory, experiential anatomy and kinesiology, and performance. Individual talents and interests will draw a student toward advanced study/application of dance in many possible areas within the department and/or broad College curriculum. The dance major is designed to provide a solid and extensive base of intellectual and experiential expertise in dance, applicable widely, as well as necessary flexibility to accommodate individual educational goals.
Core courses (10) required for the dance major are: The Creative Process (ARDV 0116), Dance History (DANC 0284), Anatomy and Kinesiology (DANC 0376), four terms of technique and choreography at or above the 0200-level, an independent project (DANC 0500 normally undertaken in the senior year), and two additional courses chosen from within the regular fall and spring course offerings in the dance program. Suggested are courses in cultural studies (DANC/SOAN 0272), somatics (DANC 0277), or advanced performing techniques (DANC 0380/0381). A 0700-level independent project may be approved for the senior year if supported by prior exemplary work and careful planning.
The Dance Joint Major: The dance joint major consists of seven courses as follows: (1) Three courses in dance technique and choreography at or above the 0200-level;(2) ARDV 0116 The Creative Process; (3) DANC 0284 Dance History; (4) DANC 0376 Anatomy and Kinesiology; (5) DANC 0500 Senior Independent Project.
The Dance Minor: The dance minor consists of five courses, as follows: (1) two courses in dance technique and choreography at or above the 0200-level; (2) DANC 0376 Anatomy and Kinesiology or DANC 0277 Body and Earth; (3) DANC 0284 Dance History or DANC 0272 Performing Culture: America's Dancing Bodies; (4) one additional course from dance listings.
Honors, high honors, or highest honors are awarded to graduating seniors in the dance program based upon a grade point average of A- or better in department and cognate courses, a grade of A- or better on the senior 0500 independent project, and overall distinction in the department. Normally only full majors will be eligible for highest honors.