Paramus High School Dance Department offers a comprehensive dance program designed to cater to students of all levels, from beginners to advanced dancers. The program offers five distinct dance courses, each tailored to accommodate different skill levels and interests. Paramus High School Dance Department also offers the Dance Honors Ensemble, an exclusive, advanced-level dance company for highly motivated students. This prestigious ensemble provides a rigorous and immersive dance experience, focusing on advanced techniques, performance skills, and creative development. Students in the Dance Honors Ensemble have the opportunity to participate in master classes with renowned guest artists, travel to prestigious dance events, and perform at numerous venues throughout the school year. The dance program at Paramus High School is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment where students can discover their passion for dance, develop their skills, and explore the joy of movement. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced dancer, the program offers something for everyone.

DANCE I

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None

Do you love to dance? Do you want to learn new genres and techniques? Dance I is for dancers of all levels. It is a fusion of technique, combinations, choreography exploration, observations and discussions. Exploring a variety of dance genres, from contemporary, musical theater, jazz, hip-hop, ballet to multicultural dance. Developing your own creative and expressive voice through choreography and improvisation. Connecting dance history to current trends in dance, experimenting with creating dance reels and videos. 

DANCE II

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Dance I or Teacher Approval

Dance II is a performance-based course that will help you take your dance to the next level. This course is designed for students who have completed Dance I or have a similar level of experience. Students will learn more advanced dance technique and choreography in contemporary, jazz, musical- theater and hip hop. Further developing their own creative and expressive voice through choreography, improvisation and sharing it with dance reels/videos. Students may participate in field trips and master classes with professional artists, and showcase their Dance II choreography in concerts and other select performances throughout the year.

DANCE III HONORS

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Dance I & II or Teacher Approval

Dance III Honors is an advanced performance-based full-year course that refines and advances the skills and knowledge acquired in Dance I and II. This honors course is designed for students who are passionate about dance and who are looking to challenge themselves and improve their skills. Students will learn advanced dance techniques and choreography in ballet, contemporary, jazz, musical theater, and commercial dance. Developing their advanced improvisation skills and learning how to analyze dance. Students will hone their choreographic skills and collaborate with their peers to create innovative and expressive dances; including dance reels/videos. Dance III Honors culminate their year by showcasing choreography, artistry, and the skills they've mastered through collaboration with professional artists.

DANCE HONORS ENSEMBLE (Spartanettes)

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Dance I, II, III + Teacher Approval

Dance Honors Ensemble is an advanced-level, performance-based ensemble, by teacher recommendation only. This dynamic and inspiring select ensemble provides an opportunity for advanced dancers to explore and deepen their understanding of dance techniques, choreography, collaboration, and performance. Dance Honors Ensemble is a performance-based ensemble collaborating with guest artists, choreographers, and dance companies, learning from their expertise and gaining valuable insights into the dance world. Students can apply for the National Honor Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA) by meeting specific requirements in their Senior year. Dance Honors Ensemble may be taken multiple times, as the course content, including repertoire, choreography, and projects, changes each year. Providing students with the opportunity to continually challenge themselves, deepen their understanding of dance, and develop their skills and artistry over time similar to a professional dance company. The Dance Honors Ensemble will have multiple performing opportunities throughout the school year.  

ACTING I

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None

Acting I is designed to introduce students to the physical and vocal elements of an actor’s work. Exercises in movement, pantomime, and improvisation develop concentration and dramatic imagination. Units on interpretation of poetry and prose expose students to the range of actor choices available to enhance a writer’s work. Scene study enables students to practice the composite skills of acting and analysis of dramatic literature. Two additional units explore the history of World Theater and careers in theater and related arts. Opportunities for performance before a live audience are frequently presented.

ACTING II 

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Acting I

This second level of Acting is designed to broaden the knowledge, ability, and experience of the serious acting student. Work involves more in-depth script analysis and scene study. Techniques of acting, character interpretation, and performance styles are covered. Additional focus is placed on the preparation of monologues and audition techniques. Opportunities for performance before a live audience are frequently presented.