DANC 203
Intermediate Ballet: Technique, Ensemble Work and History Spring 2019
Division I
This is not the current course catalog

Designed for dancers who have achieved a beginning/intermediate level, in this course students will explore different eras of ballet through the lens of famous ballets from the specific periods being studied each semester. In addition to technique classes, corps de ballet (ensemble) sections and/or variations from the chosen ballets will be taught and coached to students. Learning sequences from these ballets is an excellent training tool, as these short dances are technically, musically, dramatically and spatially challenging. Therefore, this is primarily a studio course, although, through readings and viewings, we will also consider whether, how, and why these ballets can be relevant as performance art today. While the course assignments will offer historical context, we¿ll also take a rigorous look at some of the ways in which ballet hasn’t always lived up to its potential as a dance form for all people regardless of class, race, and gender. We’ll consider basic information — the plot-lines of the ballets we’ll be working on — as well as more subtle ideas — famous dancers’ takes on these roles, the socio-political aspects of the works themselves and the times they were created in. Viewings will also be assigned to allow students to fully explore and grasp the ballets. Students will submit written responses to the assignments. The class may go on one or two field trips to attend performances and will write response papers when applicable. ANY student with adequate prior knowledge is welcome to this class! Students will be assessed on their individual progress. This course MAY BE REPEATED for credit.