Welcome to Dance
Fall 2009
You have many opportunities to dance at Middlebury. Through the Dance Program in the Department of Theatre and Dance, you can major, joint major, minor, or simply take courses in dance. Auditors are welcome on a space-available basis in all technique sections of our core courses and many more co-curricular classes are offered as well. We emphasize contemporary approaches to dance/movement techniques, composition, performance, and general dance studies.
Take a Course!
DANC 0160 Introduction to Dance is our entry-level dance course—no previous experience required! Many beginners discover a love of dance in DANC 0160 that continues throughout their college years. Some professional careers even start here.
DANC 0160, offered in both fall and spring semesters, presents an overview of the field of dance through training in movement techniques and anatomy, improvisation, composition, history, and writing. The course meets four times a week: MW 11:15 a.m.-12:05 p.m. and TTh 3:00-4:15 p.m. It is offered every semester and will be taught by Andrea Olsen in the fall.
DANC 0163, From Africa to the Americas: Moving from our Core is an introduction to dance emphasizing the influence of traditions from the African diaspora on contemporary modern dance. Taught by Christal Brown, it meets four times per week: MW from 10:10-11:00 a.m. and TTh 11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Do you have significant previous dance training? DANC 0260 Advanced Beginning Dance, taught by Tiffany Rhynard, is open to you. Talk with dance faculty for advice if you are not sure which course is best for you.
Officially Audit a Dance Course!
Dance courses meet four or five times a week, depending on the level. You may audit a full course, attending all class sessions, but without responsibility for written work or other projects. After successful completion this course will appear on your transcript as an "official audit". Consult with course instructor at the beginning of the semester for advice on this possibility.
Dance for PE Credit!
All students receive PE credit for successfully completing a dance course. You may receive PE credit for auditing the technique sections of regular dance courses—two classes per week. Auditing also makes you eligible to perform in program-sponsored concerts. Make arrangements with the instructor of the class you would like to take at the beginning of the semester and attend two classes per week, consistently, at a level appropriate to your experience.
Dance & Movement Classes for PE Credit
Perform!
On Tuesday, September 15 at 7:00 p.m., advanced student choreographers audition dancers for their November 20, 21, 2009, concert. All are welcome. Important: Dancers must be attending a minimum of two approved technique classes consistently each week in order to be eligible to perform in program-sponsored events. Taking class supports your developing artistry, technical range, and skill as a performer as you focus on a particular creative process in rehearsals.
Just Want to Dance?
You may audit technique sections of regular courses, or any other dance classes, simply for the pleasure of dancing. Consult with instructors to see if there is room for you in the class of your choice.
Student Dance Groups!
Dance is everywhere at Middlebury. Swing, ballroom, ballet, capoeira, breaking, Afro-Caribbean, what's your style? Go to the Activities Fair. Dance clubs abound. If you don't find what you're looking for, start your own club. Ask C-CAL for more information.
Get a Job!
Join the Dance Production workstudy crew that supports student, faculty, and guest artist concerts throughout the year or assist in the Dance Office. Contact Jennifer Ponder for further information about open positions. Open positions will be posted on the SEO Web site.
Attend Lectures, Performances, and Master Classes!
A busy schedule of special events, including lectures, demonstrations, performances, workshops, master classes and informal showings is always a part of dance at Middlebury. Check out the Dance Calendar.
The Dance Company of Middlebury
The Dance Company of Middlebury (DCM) is selected each year by audition, and is open to sophomores through seniors and alumni. For the 2009-2010 season, the Dance Company of Middlebury, directed by Penny Campbell, will create an evening of dances with themes and music that link US and Caribbean cultures. The company will perform on campus and tour to the Dominican Republic. First year students are encouraged to get to know the Dance Program by taking classes, auditioning for other performances, and attending as many dance concerts as they can before seeking involvement with DCM in their sophomore year.
Dance during Winter Term!
Every January is different! Often introductory dance courses or intensive 
experiences with visiting artists are offered. C-CAL also sponsors many dance and movement classes during January, taught by students, alumni and guests. If your schedule makes it impossible to dance during fall or spring, or you just can't dance enough, dance in January. The Winter Term catalog comes out in November.
Dance Faculty and Staff for 2009-2010
Penny Campbell, Director of Dance
Andrea Olsen, Professor of Dance
Tiffany Rhynard, Artist in Residence
Christal Brown, Visiting Lecturer in Dance (fall, winter)
Jennifer Ponder, Lighting Designer and Technical Director
Michael Chorney, Music Director for Dance
Ron Rost, Musician/Composer
Nicole Patterson, Program Coordinator, x5245