Courses

Universities like Richmond take training students in theatre and dance seriously. With a larger number of regional theaters and performing arts venues in the United States than ever before, many of them connected to major universities, theatre and dance graduates are sometimes surprised to learn that they are employable. Students no longer need to choose between pursuing a four-year liberal arts degree and a professional career.

Students work year-round, producing a heavy schedule of performances for the University community and the City of Richmond at large.

Faculty members emphasize the fundamentals, starting students on basic exercises in movement, diction and voice. Classes progress quickly and students are expected to practice, practice, practice both in and outside of class. Participating in extracurricular programs and performances is expected of all majors and minors since it’s the single best way to practice the skills you learn in the classroom.

The department’s professional emphasis has resulted in numerous students entering the performing arts arena after graduation. Graduates have started their own theaters and dance companies and gone to work in New York and Los Angeles.

  • Theatre
    Expand All
    • THTR 115 Theatre Appreciation

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): IF-Written Communication (IFWC), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP), AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP)

      Description
      An introduction to the role of actors, playwrights, directors, designers, and audiences in the highly collaborative art of theatre. Students learn to appreciate the artistic and intellectual processes of theatre artists through creative projects in the classroom and to use knowledge of historical forms and traditions in order to evaluate contemporary live theatre. 
    • THTR 119 Broadway Musical Theatre

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP), AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      Survey of the Broadway musical theatre from its 19th century roots to the present day. Provides basic introduction to music theory and culminates with performance of original one-act musical(s) written and produced by class members. In addition to regular class meetings, weekly labs are held for rehearsals and presentation of special topics. (Same as Music 119.)
    • THTR 201 Introduction to Scenery with Lab

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP), AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      An introductory course designed to cultivate students’ appreciation for the design and technical elements that contribute to live theatrical productions, with a specific focus on scenic design. Students are required to complete 38 Lab Hours by the end of the semester.
    • THTR 202 Scene Painting

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Study of function of scenic artist in theory and practice. Hands-on approach to scene painting. Laboratory hours required.
    • THTR 203 Introduction to Light and Sound

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Introduction to the technical aspects of lighting and sound design and roduction, and to the creative process required to make informed design choices. Laboratory hours required.
    • THTR 206 Introduction to Costume

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Introduction to role of costume designer as collaborative artist in theatre process. Survey of historical implications for design. Basic skills of costume construction. Laboratory assignments with mainstage productions.
    • THTR 207 Text and Performance

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Focuses on the fundamentals of script analysis and the characteristics of distinct theatrical genres. Reading of plays and examination of various productions to garner an understanding of the creative dimension of theatre making. Creative projects focus on: 1) imagined productions of the plays, both personal and culturally significant, and 2) embodied exploration of character and dramatic action.
    • THTR 208 Fundamentals of Design

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Examines the creative art of design in developing theatre/dance productions and projects. The study of style and composition will provide a framework for the analysis of design within the context of performance. Methods for assembling a design portfolio to represent their research and creative projects. Special attention will be devoted to the role of research in relation to scenic, costume, lighting, and sound design in live performance.
    • THTR 210 Performing Diversity: A Cultural Odyssey

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Africana Studies Group C (AFSC)

      Description
      Furthers understanding of minority groups in America by investigating their social condition from an experiential base. Participants will explore existing portraits and issues associated with minorities as well as connect with important notions on cultural diversity in America. Special importance will be placed on celebrating ethnic achievements and lifestyles. Plays, poetry, and other performance art forms (including cooking and dressing) will constitute significant class presentations.
    • THTR 212 Basics of Acting

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP), AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      Basic methods of analysis and performance techniques necessary to generate believable human behavior on stage. Study of roots (mind/body processes), not ends of acting (performance). Class exercises to develop and discipline actor's physical, vocal, and imaginative equipment. Laboratory assignments with major productions.
    • THTR 213 Fundamentals of Stage Makeup

      Units: 1

      Description
      Art and application of theatrical makeup, realism to fantasy. Corrective makeup; specialty makeup (aging, scars, beards, animal faces). Laboratory assignments in conjunction with all major productions.
    • THTR 214 Acting for Social Change

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): American studies electives (AMER), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      A studio and seminar class inspired by African and European models in Theatre for Development, a specialized field of drama focused on social development and grounded in participatory procedure. The activity involves research, analysis, scenario building, and performance. Participants will be exposed to exercises in devising and performing work for impacting social transformation. The course will highlight issues within the immediate environment as well as the larger Richmond community, and practice will occur in both domains.
    • THTR 215 Physical Theatre: Actor as Creator

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP), AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      Introduces students to the contemporary approaches to theatre-making which focus on the body. Through a series of workshops & creative projects, students will learn techniques for generating original material, developing their spontaneity and creativity, and creating theatre that is personally meaningful and collectively engaging.
    • THTR 219 Basics of Ensemble Acting

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Exploratory class which attempts to generate honest and spontaneous responses from the actor to performance and play creating circumstances. Major emphasis is placed on teamwork, the search for truth and attaining actual potential in the art of playing. With a view to synergizing theatre activity with communal responsibility participants are encouraged to draw on issues around them and nurture creative inspiration from societal needs. Improvisation, storytelling, and multiple role playing are primary mediums for advancing the experience.
    • THTR 229 Going Solo: The Politics of Identity in Contemporary Solo

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): American studies electives (AMER), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP), WGSS Transnational Perspective (WGTP)

      Description
      Examines the development of solo performance from the 1970s to the present. Pays close attention to the ways solo practitioners use the body to highlight specific cultural, social, and political histories of marginalization encountered by the working class, people of color, women, lesbians, and gays. Engages with a multitude of genres including performance art, autobiographical forms, spoken word, stand-up comedy, and hip-hop based work.
    • THTR 239 Latinas/Latinos on Stage: From the Barrios to Broadway

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Africana Studies Group C (AFSC), American studies electives (AMER), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP), AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Power/Equity/Identity/Cult (IFPE), WGSS Transnational Perspective (WGTP)

      Description
      Examines the evolving formation of Latina/o identity in Broadway and community productions as well as popular culture with special attention to issues of globalization, migration, and transculturation.
    • THTR 249 Documentary Theatre Project

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Power/Equity/Identity/Cult (IFPE)

      Description
      Explores different ways to tell complex historical narratives and how to use documentary performance in order to foster conversation about difficult issues with the goal of expanding the possibilities for social change. Conduct interviews, do archival research, and create, produce, and perform a docudrama.
    • THTR 301 Scene Design

      Units: 1

      Description
      Artistic aspects of stage setting in theory and in practice. Consideration of mechanical perspective, watercolor sketching, color schemes, and history of period design. Stresses how the design process is inspired by the script and how the design of scenery is only part of the larger creative process called theatre. Laboratory hours required.

       

      Prerequisites

      THTR 115, THTR 201, THTR 205, THTR 207, or THTR 208

    • THTR 305 Sound Design

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Film studies course (FMST)

      Description
      Exploration of the field of sound design through "hands-on" experiences with the design process, as well as the use of various types of recording and editing equipment, software programs, and research protocols and materials used by sound designers to create the aural environment for a production.

       

      Prerequisites

      THTR 207, THTR 208, or FMST 202

    • THTR 307 Lighting Design

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Film studies course (FMST)

      Description
      Upper-level course in lighting design for the stage. Special emphasis on project-based, "hands on" learning with students implementing their own designs through analysis, research, creative and practical applications. Laboratory hours are required.

       

      Prerequisites

      THTR 203, THTR 207, THTR 208, or FMST 202

    • THTR 308 Basic of Directing

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Film studies course (FMST)

      Description
      Principles and techniques of directing the realistic modern play. Case studies and scene work. One-act play prepared for production by each student. Laboratory assignments with major productions.

       

      Prerequisites

      THTR 203, THTR 207, THTR 208, or FMST 202

    • THTR 309 Classical Theatre

      Units: 1

      Description
      Survey of theatre history from ancient Greece to mid 18th-century Europe, with emphasis on representative plays, performance practices, and theories, as well as the cultural, economic, and political contexts from which they emerged. Lecture/discussion format.
    • THTR 310 Managing Performing Arts Organizations

      Units: 1

      Description
      For those interested in managing and leading a performing arts organization, this course is a review of topics essential for successful management of a performing arts organization. Includes nonprofit and alternative organizational structure, organizational development and structure-- (management, board of directors, and staffing) , leadership and management styles, budget development and fiscal management, strategic planning, marketing and audience development, legals issues, and other related topics. (Same as Music 310.)
    • THTR 312 Special Topics

      Units: 0.5-1

      Description
      Representative topics: acting for the camera, advanced courses in costume, directing, makeup, critical theory, directing, improvisation, makeup, performance theory, stage combat, documentary film making, voice and speech for the stage. Can be taken more than once for credit if topic varies.

       

      Prerequisites

      THTR 205, THTR 207, or THTR 208

    • THTR 314 Theatre for Social Change II

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): American studies electives (AMER)

      Description
      Designed to enable students to utilize and transfer the skills acquired in Theatre 214 into the larger community. Working in smaller groups, they are responsible for implementing and evaluating a theatre-centered project within the context of social and sustainable development. They will foster the creation of a play by community members on issues affecting their daily lives. Significant emphasis is given to cultivating an interaction with experts in related areas of concern towards galvanizing meaningful future growth in the selected community.
    • THTR 315 Independent Study

      Units: 0.5-1

      Description
      Restriction: Prospectus must be submitted and approved prior to the end of advance registration. Does not count for theatre or dance minor.

       

      Prerequisites

      Permission of instructor.

    • THTR 319 Theatre History: Modern and Contemporary

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): WGSS Historical Perspectives (WGHP)

      Description
      A survey of theatre history from mid 18th-century Europe to the present, with emphasis on representative plays, performance practices, and theories, as well as the cultural, economic, and political contexts from which they emerged. Lecture/discussion format.
    • THTR 320 Advanced Acting: Twentieth-Century Acting Styles and Theory

      Units: 1

      Description
      An examination of the major theories that have shaped the discourse on, and practice of, the art of acting in the 20th century. Concentrated scene study class that explores relationship between 20th-century dramatic literature and acting techniques and theories that developed to meet demands of these plays. By preparing scenes from various modern genres of theatre, acting students examine techniques and research methods necessary to unlock performance elements of the most demanding dramas of the last 100 years.
    • THTR 321 History of Apparel

      Units: 1

      Description
      Designed to give students a recognition/understanding of the evolution of clothing from the ancients to the 21st century. Beginning with the physiological and psychological reasons for clothing. Includes focus on the relationship of fashion to the social and political issues of the time period.
    • THTR 322 Costume Design

      Units: 1

      Description
      Further exploration of various construction, patterning, design, research and rendering problems and the methods for solving them. Building on the techniques learned in the introductory course, students will gain a deeper understanding of the variety of methods used in problem solving, and how to know which approach is best suited to the needs of the script in question. The course will culminate in a public presentation of students' projects.

       

      Prerequisites

      THTR 206

    • THTR 325 Script Analysis.

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): Literary Studies (FSLT), Film studies course (FMST)

      Description
      This course features a systematic approach to understanding and realizing the theatrical implications of play scripts. Students will approach script study as if in preparation for mounting a production. 
    • THTR 328 Acting Shakespeare II

      Units: 1

      Description
      Introduction to emotional, physical, and vocal techniques necessary for performing a Shakespearean play. Builds on work of Theatre 327 in providing students with analytical means and research methods necessary to make informed artistic decisions.  

      Prerequisites

      THTR 327

    • THTR 330 Practicum: Performance

      Units: 0.25-1

      Description
      Understanding theatre arts through analysis of and participation in creative theatrical efforts. Forty hours work for .25 units of practicum credit. Includes research and written work appropriate to the theatrical activity involved. Four units maximum credit; 1.5 units maximum per semester. Does not count for theatre or dance major or minor.

       

      Prerequisites

      Permission of department.

    • THTR 331 Practicum: Direction/Choreography

      Units: 0.25-1

      Description
      Understanding theatre arts through analysis of and participation in creative theatrical efforts. Forty hours work for .25 units of practicum credit. Includes research and written work appropriate to the theatrical activity involved. Four units maximum credit; 1.5 units maximum per semester. Does not count for theatre or dance major or minor.

       

      Prerequisites

      Permission of department.

    • THTR 332 Practicum: Stage Management

      Units: 0.25-1

      Description
      Understanding theatre arts through analysis of and participation in creative theatrical efforts. Forty hours work for .25 units of practicum credit. Includes research and written work appropriate to the theatrical activity involved. Four units maximum credit; 1.5 units maximum per semester. Does not count for theatre or dance major or minor.

       

      Prerequisites

      Permission of department.

    • THTR 333 Practicum: Technical Crew

      Units: 0.25-1

      Description
      Understanding theatre arts through analysis of and participation in creative theatrical efforts. Forty hours work for .25 units of practicum credit. Includes research and written work appropriate to the theatrical activity involved. Four units maximum credit; 1.5 units maximum per semester. Does not count for theatre or dance major or minor.

       

      Prerequisites

      Permission of department.

    • THTR 334 Practicum: Design

      Units: 0.25-1

      Description
      Understanding theatre arts through analysis of and participation in creative theatrical efforts. Forty hours work for .25 units of practicum credit. Includes research and written work appropriate to the theatrical activity involved. Four units maximum credit; 1.5 units maximum per semester. Does not count for theatre or dance major or minor.

       

      Prerequisites

      Permission of department.

    • THTR 340 Practicum: Technical Theatre

      Units: 0.25-1

      Description
      Understanding theatre arts through analysis of and participation in creative theatrical efforts. Forty hours work for .25 units of practicum credit. Includes research and written work appropriate to the theatrical activity involved. Four units maximum credit; 1.5 units maximum per semester. Does not count for theatre or dance major or minor.
    • THTR 341 Practicum: Costume/Makeup

      Units: 0.25-1

      Description
      Understanding theatre arts through analysis of and participation in creative theatrical efforts. Forty hours work for .25 units of practicum credit. Includes research and written work appropriate to the theatrical activity involved. Four units maximum credit; 1.5 units maximum per semester. Does not count for theatre or dance major or minor.

       

      Prerequisites

      Permission of department.

    • THTR 342 Practicum: Other

      Units: 0.25-1

      Description
      Understanding theatre arts through analysis of and participation in creative theatrical efforts. Forty hours work for .25 units of practicum credit. Includes research and written work appropriate to the theatrical activity involved. Four units maximum credit; 1.5 units maximum per semester. Does not count for theatre or dance major or minor.

       

      Prerequisites

      Permission of department.

    • THTR 343 Practicum: Lighting

      Units: 0.25-1

      Description
      Understanding theatre arts through analysis of and participation in creative theatrical efforts. Forty hours work for .25 units of practicum credit. Includes research and written work appropriate to the theatrical activity involved. Four units maximum credit; 1.5 units maximum per semester. Does not count for theatre or dance major or minor.

       

      Prerequisites

      Permission of department.

    • THTR 345 Philanthropy in the Arts

      Units: 1

      Description
      (See Music 345; same as Art 345.)

       

      Prerequisites

      MUS 310, THTR 310, or ARTH 322 or permission of instructor.

    • THTR 370 Staging Gender

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Literary & Textual Analysis (AILT), IF-Power/Equity/Identity/Cult (IFPE), WGSS Gender and Violence (WGGV)

      Description
      Study of selected plays and theatre productions with a focus on the representations of gender and gender relations. Readings in feminist, gender, and queer theory provide critical frameworks for analyzing representations of gender as well as representations of race and class as they intersect with gender. Culminates in a staged reading of a play.
    • THTR 380 Honors Thesis Preparation

      Units: 1

      Description
      Research and preparation for honors thesis or project in theatre or dance.

       

      Prerequisites

      Acceptance in the department honors program.

    • THTR 388 Internship

      Units: 0.5-1

      Description
      Practical application of theatre and dance principles and skills in supervised, out-of-class environment. Does not count for theatre major or minor or dance minor. No more than 1.5 units of internship in any one department and 3.5 units of internship overall may be counted toward required degree units.

       

      Prerequisites

      Majors and minors only; faculty approval before beginning work.

    • THTR 399 Leadership in Production

      Units: 0-0.5

      Description
      Majors-only course requiring a student to assume a position of significant responsibility (excluding performing) in one of the department¿s major productions. These positions include designing or assistant designing (costumes, lights, scenery, sound), assistant directing, dance captain, dramaturg, properties master, publicity manager (for the academic year), or stage manager. Graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.
    • THTR 406 Summer Undergraduate Research

      Units: 0

      Description
      Documentation of the work of students who receive summer fellowships to conduct research [or produce a creative arts project] in the summer. The work must take place over a minimum of 6 weeks, the student must engage in the project full-time (at least 40 hours per week) during this period, and the student must be the recipient of a fellowship through the university. Graded S/U.

       

      Prerequisites

      Approval by a faculty mentor.

    • THTR 407 Collaboration and Production

      Units: 1

      Description
      Requires students to form a production organization and produce a substantial play. The production will be staged at the beginning of the next semester and students will receive their final grade after successful completion. Students must select play, analyze material, provide requisite dramaturgical research, create a budget, design all visual elements, raise funds for and publicize the production, conduct rehearsals, and provide a thorough critique of the results.

       

      Prerequisites

      THTR 207, THTR 208, and THTR 301; or THTR 305, THTR 307, THTR 322, or department approval.

    • THTR 425 Senior Thesis Capstone

      Units: 1

      Description
      Seminar in which students engage under faculty supervision in individual research projects (scholarly and/or creative) in specific fields or forms of theatrical expression.

       

      Prerequisites

      THTR 207 and THTR 208 and THTR 301, or THTR 305, THTR 307, or THTR 322

    • THTR 481 Honors Thesis/Peformance

      Units: 1

      Description
      Research and writing honors thesis or realization (including rehearsals and all drawings) of a creative honors project in theatre or dance.

       

      Prerequisites

      Acceptance in the department honors program.

  • Dance
    Expand All
    • DANC 204 Hip-Hop Dance

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Africana Studies Group C (AFSC), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Investigation of hip hop dance by examining the culture and politics that inspired the genre. Focuses on the foundations and origins of hip hop and street dance culture and the journey to current definitions of hip hop dance. Combined course in dance, theory, and creative practices for students of all levels of dance education.
    • DANC 205 Hip Hop Dance II

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      Hip hop is a comprehensive term encompassing art, dance, music, literature, and politics. In this course, students will thoroughly investigate hip hop dance by examining the culture and politics that inspired the genre. Hip Hop Dance II is a continuation of Hip Hop Dance I and focuses on the foundations and origins of Hip Hop and street dance culture, and the journey to today's current definitions of hip hop dance. This is a combined course in dance, theory, and creative practices for students of intermediate and advanced levels of dance education.
    • DANC 210 Salsa Dance

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Africana Studies Group C (AFSC), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Focuses on the fundamentals of Salsa dance steps and musical rhythms and the physical and social traditions of Afro-Caribbean culture. Creative projects will focus on individual and group projects designed to facilitate embodied exploration.
    • DANC 215 Dances of the African Diaspora

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      Dances of the African Diaspora include a wide range of global, cultural dance and musical forms created and developed by the descendants of indigenous African people-groups who left or were taken from the continent, in particular, as a result of the trans-Atlantic human trafficking and enslavement of the Colonial period. The course will teach dance and musical forms from the African Diaspora through in-class, studio instruction and participation, demonstrations, and multimedia, revealing the distinctions of global African dance traditions as well as their commonalities as leading cultural identities within countries of the Americas, the Caribbean and the Iberian Peninsula.
    • DANC 238 Introduction to Contact Improvisation

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      The practice and exploration of contact improvisation, an improvised movement form that relies on partners in constant physical dialog and connection. Class is devoted to developing balance, strength, flexibility, trust, support, weight-sharing, risk-taking, play, and body awareness. The class is ideal for students pursuing dance, theater, biology, psychology, or anyone wanting a physical challenge.
    • DANC 248 Movement Improvisation

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Power/Equity/Identity/Cult (IFPE)

      Description
      Focus on unraveling habitual ways of moving to discover impromptu motion and new patterns in groups, duets, and alone. A range of contemporary theoretical, artistic, and ethnographic techniques from American and international improvisers will be explored for strategies, techniques, motivations, and process.
    • DANC 251 Contemporary Dance I

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Explores organic ways of moving while maximizing circular forces, coordinating breath and movement, and working with gravity and momentum. Incorporates elements of Authentic Movement, Yoga, Bartenieff Fundamentals, Developmental Movement Technique, Flying Low, and Capoeira. Particular attention will be given to dynamic alignment imagery to facilitate efficient movement patterns. Students will be expected to learn choreographed exercises and phrases, to improvise, to create original material, and to work with partners. Includes "lab time" where students will investigate movement independently.
    • DANC 255 Composition

      Units: 1

      Description
      Explores a variety of dance-making methodologies. Composition and performance of movement studies in group, duet, and solo forms for both concert dance and site-specific locations. Culminates in a public sharing of work created throughout the semester.

       

      Prerequisites

      DANC 248

    • DANC 256 Jazz Dance I

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Introduction to jazz dance as an eclectic form of artistic expression with emphasis on rhythm and technique. Students are required to critique live dance concerts as well as conduct research on a relevant topic.
    • DANC 257 Ballet I

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Introductory course in ballet as a theatrical art form. Study of basic ballet terminology, understanding of correct body placement, and a general knowledge of performing elementary ballet technique. Students are required to critique live dance concerts as well as conduct research on a relevant topic.
    • DANC 258 Writing from the Body: Words and Movement

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Reflection on how one moves through the world and how experience gets articulated. Class is devoted to exercises that generate movement and writing, both used as gateways to the other.
    • DANC 259 Tap Dance I

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Introduction to tap dance, a theatrical form of artistic expression with development of a movement vocabulary based on rhythms made with taps. Students are required to critique live dance concerts as well as conduct research on a relevant topic.
    • DANC 260 Modern Dance I

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB), Visual & Performing Arts (FSVP)

      Description
      Introduction to modern dance as a diverse form of expression with development of language of movement. Students are required to critique live dance concerts as well as conduct research on a relevant topic.
    • DANC 261 Jazz Dance II

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      Continuation of beginning jazz, emphasizing intermediate technique, vocabulary, and style. Students are required to critique live dance concerts as well as conduct research on a relevant topic.

       

      Prerequisites

      Prior dance experience or permission of instructor

    • DANC 263 Modern Dance II

      Units: 1

      Description
      Continuation of beginning modern dance, emphasizing intermediate technique and development of an aesthetic vocabulary of contemporary modern dance. Students are required to critique live dance concerts as well as conduct research on a relevant topic.

       

      Prerequisites

      Prior dance experience or permission of instructor

    • DANC 265 Contemporary Dance II

      Units: 1

      Description
      Continuation of Contemporary Dance I. Students will deepen their knowledge of organic ways of moving while maximizing circular forces, coordinating breath and movement, and moving with an awareness of gravity and momentum. Students will engage in more complex movement patterns and will be expected to learn choreographed exercises and phrases, to improvise, to create original material, to work with partners and to investigate movement independently. Readings, written assignments, and videos will be assigned to enhance the understanding of principles of alignment, movement, and performance. Students will study key contemporary artists in the field.

       

      Prerequisites

      DANC 251 or DANC 306. Prior dance experience or permission of instructor or previous contemporary technique.

    • DANC 266 Ballet II

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      Continuation of beginning ballet, emphasizing intermediate technique and vocabulary. Students are required to critique live dance concerts as well as conduct research on a relevant topic.

       

      Prerequisites

      Previous ballet technique

    • DANC 306 University Dancers.

      Units: 0.5

      Description
      Technique, rehearsal, and performance of dance works choreographed by dance faculty, students, and visiting choreographers. May be repeated for credit.
    • DANC 312 Special Topics in Dance Technique

      Units: 0.5-1

      Description
      Offered as-needed. Representative topics may include a range of non-traditional dance forms and practices: Improvisation, Release Technique, Flying Low, Breaking, Fusion, Physical Theatre, Viewpoints, Suzuki, or other contemporary movement techniques..
    • DANC 315 Independent Study

      Units: 0.5-1

      Description
      Restriction: Prospectus must be submitted and approved prior to the end of advance registration.
    • DANC 316 Repertory

      Units: 0.5

      Description
      Students in the repertory class are members of University Dancers, and will spend the fall semester learning, rehearsing, and collaborating on a new piece of choreography by one of the University of Richmond's dance faculty or a guest artist.

       

      Prerequisites

      DANC 306

    • DANC 319 Collaborative Arts Lab: Dance, Humanities and Technology

      Units: 1

      Description
      A creative research lab where students combine dance, theatre, and subject from humanities and/or science and technology as the foundation for creating and original dance theatre piece. The research-creative project to include a public performance with talk-back on process and discoveries.
    • DANC 320 Human Kinetics for Dance

      Units: 1

      Description
      The science of human movement and knowledge of the skeletal and muscular structures which is a valuable tool in a dancer's growth. Focus on how the body functions and moves as the students develop an objective and realistic sense of their strengths and weakness. An approach that applies principles towards the anatomical analysis, assessment, function, preservation and enhancement of human movement.
    • DANC 322 Special Topics in Somantics

      Units: 1

      Description
      Offered as needed. Representative topics may include: Special Topics in Kinetics, Feldenkrais, Alexander Technique, Pilates, Yoga, Physical Conditioning for Dancers and Athletes, or other body awareness and movement training.
    • DANC 330 Dance History/Theory I

      Units: 1

      Description
      Study of Western theatrical dance from antiquity through the 19th century. Focus on the analysis of dance and movement practices within their cultural contexts. Ritual roots of early dance are examined along with social, political, and religious aspects of the rich array of dance practices and theories from pre-history to classical ballet of the late 19th century.
    • DANC 335 Dance Projects

      Units: 1

      Description
      Continuation of DANC 255 Composition. Students develop a creative or research project culminating in a public presentation.

       

      Prerequisites

      DANC 255

    • DANC 340 Dance History/Theory II

      Units: 1

      Description
      A study of Western theatrical dance from the early 20th-century Ballets Russes through the development of modern dance, jazz dance, musical theatre, hip-hop, and contemporary fusion forms.
    • DANC 350 Special Topics in Critical Inquiry

      Units: 1

      Description
      Offered as needed. Representative topics include critical dance studies, historical dance studies, performance studies, and dance criticism.
    • DANC 356 Pointe and Variations

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      For advanced ballet students to continue training in pointe work. Study of classical variations in a historical context and performance of these variations in an informal showing. Students are required to critique live dance concerts as well as conduct research on a relevant topic.

       

      Prerequisites

      Previous pointe work or permission of instructor 

    • DANC 361 Advanced Jazz Dance

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      Continuation of intermediate jazz, emphasizing advanced technique, vocabulary, and style. Students are required to critique live dance concerts as well as conduct research on a relevant topic.

       

      Prerequisites

      Previous intermediate jazz technique


    • DANC 365 Advanced Contemporary Dance

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      Continuation of Contemporary Dance II. Deepens knowledge of organic ways of moving while maximizing circular forces, coordinating breath and movement, and working with gravity and momentum. Engagement in advanced movement patterns and choreographed exercises and phrases, improvisation, to create original material, to work with partners and to investigate movement independently. Readings, written assignments, and videos will be assigned to enhance the understanding of principles of alignment, movement, and performance. Students will study key contemporary artists in the field.

       

      Prerequisites

      DANC 265 or DANC 306. Previous intermediate contemporary technique

    • DANC 366 Advanced Ballet

      Units: 1

      Fulfills General Education Requirement(s): AI-Visual & Performing Arts (AIVP), IF-Embodied Communication (IFEB)

      Description
      Continuation of intermediate ballet, emphasizing advanced technique and vocabulary. Students are required to critique live dance concerts as well as conduct research on a relevant topic.

       

      Prerequisites

      Previous intermediate ballet technique.

    • DANC 406 Summer Undergraduate Research

      Units: 0

      Description
      Documentation of the work of students who receive summer fellowships to conduct research [or produce a creative arts project] in the summer. The work must take place over a minimum of 6 weeks, the student must engage in the project full-time (at least 40 hours per week) during this period, and the student must be the recipient of a fellowship through the university. Graded S/U.

       

      Prerequisites

      Approval by a faculty member

    • DANC 407 Senior Thesis Capstone

      Units: 1

      Description
      Builds on the foundations of Choreography I and Choreography II, as well as the other courses in the major. Student choreographer develops a fully produced work culminating in a public performance. Department of Theatre and Dance faculty co-mentor the student choreographer through the collaborative creative process, which includes developing a concept for the piece, making effective music choices, collaborating with designers (costume, lighting, sound and scenic), and working efficiently and creatively with dancers in rehearsal.

       

      Prerequisites

      DANC 315, DANC 319, or DANC 335