VPA Dance Program Mission

ABOUT OUR DANCE PROGRAM

The Northwestern VPA Dance Program provides the history, theory,  and extensive dance training. Students will come to value dance as an aesthetic experience involving the mind and body.

Students are given a strong foundation in Modern, Ballet, Jazz, Dance Composition, Dance Repertory, Dance History, and Ethnic Dance. In addition, students will learn proper body alignment,  strength, flexibility, and execution of dance steps, proper audience etiquette, nutrition, acting for dancers, and vocabulary through traditional dance forms. Students are also taught aspects of Somatics and Kinesiology. 

Dance class is offered as an elective to fulfill the Fine Arts credits for graduation. Students are placed in levels 1 through level 4 which is based on grade level. Non-Majors are required to wear a uniform of a Navy Blue or Black leotard, tights/black pants or shorts for female-identified students, and a fitted white tee, with black bottoms for male-identified students. Non-binary students have the option of wearing one of the two required uniforms that best comforts them for dance. 

Student ages range from 14 to 19 years old.  All Dance Majors are required to participate in the Annual Winter and Spring Dance Concerts, along with other VPA or Department performances. Juniors are required to perform in the Student Choreography Showcase as a part of their final research project. Seniors present their own choreographed exit solo and group piece at the VPA Dance Senior Showcase. Both of these opportunities allow the Juniors and Seniors the platform to explore their choreographic voice and present their work in a safe and supportive environment.

In addition, to the academic programs during the school day students also have the opportunity to audition and perform in the PGCPS Honor Ensemble, the PGPCS Student Choreographers Showcase, Regional High School Dance Festival, Maryland High School Dance Showcase, Maryland Dance Alliance, and the National Honors Society for Dance Arts ensemble; Royale Dance Company. 

MISSION

The Jim Henson Academy of Visual and Performing Arts at Northwestern High School Dance Program serves as a vital community resource by providing elite pre-professional training and fostering cultural accessibility. Our mission is to cultivate the next generation of citizen-artists through a holistic approach that prepares students to lead and serve within both the professional dance community and the public sphere.

Through professional exposure, community outreach, and regional travel, we empower students to contribute meaningfully to the national arts landscape. We maintain high standards of artistry and civic accountability to ensure our graduates are prepared for post-secondary excellence and dedicated to supporting the cultural vitality of the communities they serve.