Curriculum

Academic curriculum includes dance technique, anatomy and kinesiology, choreography, dance history, pedagogy, college and career planning and critical writing about dance. SCAPA incorporates the Kentucky Academic Standards for Visual and Performing Arts, with a highlight on Dance Technique and Performance. Focused class participation is the primary expectation for all students. This includes self-discipline, persistence, and a positive attitude. Supplemental  practice, reading, projects, written work and tests will be assigned to enhance and assess all students’ knowledge of the art form. Dance majors have the opportunity to dance in several concerts a year, with the annual full department “Dance SCAPA” (grades 4–12) taking place at the Lexington Opera House in the spring. Rehearsals for these events may take place outside of the school day.  

Outcomes

SCAPA Dance prepares students to continue their artform at the next level whether that is college, professional engagements, teaching or performing. Dancers can also move into other diverse fields in college or careers and rely on the discipline and creativity they develop from their SCAPA major. All students carry an appreciation and respect for the arts that will contribute to a culturally rich and compassionate society.

Program Accolades

The SCAPA dance department has presidential scholars, dancers who have joined prestigious programs such as Juilliard, and Ailey/Fordham, dancers who have careers on Broadway, touring musicals, performing for Disney and working with professional dance companies such as Pacific Northwest Ballet, Atlanta Ballet, Ballet Met, and Hubbard Street. Others have moved into choreography, teaching and directing dance podcasts. Many students receive scholarships as a result of skills and artistry developed at SCAPA.

Faculty