DANCE

Through course work centered in modern, ballet, choreography, improvisation, dance history, anatomy and somatics, dance production, dance critique and through a multitude of performance opportunities, the Specialty Center Dance program encourages students to think critically about technique, dance making, personal aesthetic and performance, providing them with the kind of well-rounded dance education which prepares them for further study in college, university and conservatory programs.

Once admitted to the program, students will be registered for a Major course for content study and a Repertory course for rehearsal work each year. Students also become a part of the Specialty Center Dance Company which performs in three concerts annually; the Jazz Band & Dance Department Collaborative Concert, the Senior Dance Concert which features the graduating class' culminating projects in choreography and production, and the Spring Dance Showcase which includes the work of students from all grade levels, faculty and guest artists. Students are also given the opportunity to perform as featured dancers in the Specialty Center's fall musical theater production and perform at various community events and functions. 

Visiting teachers and choreographers are a regular part of the Specialty Center Dance Program. Past guests have included modern, ballet, contemporary, musical theater and jazz choreographers and performers from the Richmond-Metro area, New York, Rhode Island, D.C., Texas, National Touring Broadway shows, and beyond!

The Specialty Center Dance Company also travels regularly to experience dance communities around the country. The Company attends the National and Regional High School Dance Festivals and has also taken trips to New York City and Los Angeles, California.