Careers in Dance

Goals

The Careers in Dance project will have a significant impact on student success and will eventually become a regular part of the school’s curriculum, including both graduate and undergraduate students. Graduate students will serve as mentors for the undergraduate participants, with both being under the guidance of the faculty members through the activities of the project. The ultimate goals are to foster long-range program development that can create an intersection for students interested in launching careers as dance artists. 

Specifically, this VIP Team will:

  • Support the excellence in technical and creative preparation already provided by the school with industry-specific tools related to business for dance
  • Enhance community engagement for arts practitioners
  • Focus on arts management and production for Dance, something other comparable dance programs do not provide.

Issues Involved or Addressed

The driving question for the School of Dance’s Careers in Dance VIP Team is an analysis and understanding of the present-day needs for professional dance artists, and how higher education Dance programs can support sustainable career success through targeted courses and activities. 

Methods and Tech

Scholarly research activity in this VIP includes statistical research of dance industry, community-engaged activity, creative activity, and exploration of best practices for professional dance artists. The VIP project will allow the team to build evidence-based understanding of how to best serve today’s dance students.

A key component of the Careers in Dance project is the focus on real-world experience, including engagement with industry professionals and hands-on/internship-style activities that explore potential career paths for dance artists.

Academic Majors of Interest

  • Dance
  • Arts Administration

Preferred Interests and Preparation

  • Ability to learn and perform dance choreography
  • Understanding of one or more dance techniques
  • Collaborative capacity and ability to work respectfully with others
  • Interest in development of live performing arts

Application Process

Students will be required to fill out an application form (Google Form) and will audition during the first week of classes. The VIP Team will select the team members, who will be informed of their selection. For further information please contact Professor Dyke-Compton. 

This VIP is only offered in the Fall Semester.

Team Advisors

Duane Cyrus, MFA

Tamara Dyke-Compton, MFA

Gianni Howell, BFA