Department of Dance at Case Western Reserve University

For aspiring dancers, scholars, and performing arts enthusiasts across Ohio, the Department of Dance at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) in Cleveland stands as a distinguished and historically significant institution. Nestled within a leading research university, this department offers a unique blend of rigorous academic study and intensive dance training, making it a prominent hub for the performing arts in the region. It's not merely a place for recreational classes, but a serious academic department that cultivates professional artists, educators, and scholars, contributing significantly to the cultural vibrancy of Cleveland and beyond. For local Ohio residents interested in pursuing dance at a collegiate level, or simply appreciating high-caliber dance performances, CWRU's Dance Department represents a pinnacle of artistic and intellectual pursuit.

The Department of Dance at Case Western Reserve University is distinguished as one of the oldest Master of Fine Arts (MFA) dance programs in institutions of higher education in the United States, founded in 1975. Its long-standing legacy and commitment to innovation ensure a high-quality education in a conservatory-like environment. The department's focus on modern and contemporary dance, while also offering strong ballet technique, provides a comprehensive and forward-thinking curriculum. Students benefit from working with world-renowned faculty who bring professional dance careers and scholarly expertise to the classroom and studio. Furthermore, CWRU's dance program is noted for pioneering initiatives like the nation's first Dancer Wellness Program in a graduate curriculum, underscoring its holistic approach to artist development. This dedication to both artistic excellence and dancer well-being makes it an unparalleled choice for serious dance students within Ohio and beyond.

The Department of Dance at Case Western Reserve University is situated within the vibrant university campus at Mather Dance, 11201 Bellflower Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA. This location places it squarely within Cleveland's University Circle, one of the nation's most concentrated square miles of arts, education, and healthcare institutions. This prime setting offers unparalleled accessibility for students and visitors from across Ohio. Cleveland is a major metropolitan area with a robust public transportation system, including bus routes that serve the University Circle area, making it convenient for those without personal vehicles.

For those driving, the university campus offers various parking options, although it's always advisable to check CWRU's parking information for the most current details regarding visitor parking and rates. The Mather Dance Center, where the Department of Dance is primarily housed, boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including triple-layer basket-weave sprung dance floors and abundant natural light, providing an optimal environment for dance training and performance. Its integration within the larger university campus means students and visitors also have access to the broader amenities and resources of Case Western Reserve University, further enhancing the overall experience. This combination of a central, well-connected location and high-quality facilities ensures that the Department of Dance is easily accessible and a pleasure to visit for anyone in the Ohio region.

The Department of Dance at Case Western Reserve University offers a comprehensive suite of academic programs and training opportunities for aspiring dancers and scholars.

• Undergraduate Degrees:
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Dance: A comprehensive major requiring 41 credit hours, blending strong technique training with theoretical studies in dance history, culture, kinesiology, and choreography.
  • Minor in Dance: An 18-hour program for undergraduates interested in pursuing dance alongside other studies, typically focusing on technique classes but also including other departmental courses.
• Graduate Degrees:
  • Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Contemporary Dance: One of the oldest MFA dance programs in the U.S., a rigorous 60-credit sequence focusing on choreography, performance, pedagogy, and dance science, preparing students for advanced dance careers and academic appointments.
  • Master of Arts (MA) in Dance: A 30-credit program that allows students to fuse dance with academia, offering significant one-on-one time with faculty and often serving as a pathway to the MFA or further doctoral studies.
• Technique Classes: Extensive course offerings in modern and contemporary dance technique (from First-Year to Advanced levels) and ballet technique (from Introduction to Advanced levels), designed for majors, minors, and non-majors.
• Dance Theory and History: Courses exploring dance in various cultures (ethnic and theatrical forms), the history of modern dance, and theoretical concepts.
• Choreography and Production: Opportunities to learn the craft of choreography, exploring elements of time, space, and dynamics, and practical involvement in dance production resources.
• Dancer Wellness Program: A pioneering program in a U.S. graduate dance curriculum, integrating kinesiology, dance medicine, science, and wellness seminars covering nutrition, injury prevention, and rehabilitation.
• Performance Opportunities: Students participate in various performing opportunities, including major dance productions, Mather Dance Collective performances, and collaborations with guest artists.
• Research and Scholarly Development: Emphasis on developing scholarly and creative research skills, preparing students for academic or advanced professional careers.

The Department of Dance at Case Western Reserve University boasts several distinguished features and highlights that set it apart as a leading performing arts institution.

• Pioneering Graduate Programs: It is home to one of the oldest MFA dance programs in the U.S. (founded 1975) and the first Dancer Wellness Program in a U.S. graduate program (founded 2000), highlighting its leadership and innovation in dance education.
• World-Class Faculty: Students learn from principal faculty members who have had distinguished careers as professional dancers in New York City and are recognized for their excellence in teaching and mentoring.
• Conservatory-Like Environment within a Research University: This unique blend offers intensive practical training alongside rigorous academic inquiry, providing a holistic and intellectually stimulating education.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Offers a robust curriculum that balances modern and contemporary dance technique with strong ballet foundations, alongside critical studies in dance history, theory, choreography, and production.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Housed in the Mather Dance Center, which features triple-layer basket-weave sprung dance floors, ample natural light, and adaptable studio spaces that can transform into informal performance venues.
• Strong Interdisciplinary Connections: Partnerships with institutions like the Cleveland Institute of Music (offering Dalcroze Eurhythmics classes) and collaborations with DanceCleveland and the Cleveland Institute of Art enrich the student experience.
• Focus on Dancer Well-being: The acclaimed Dancer Wellness Program provides annual biomechanical screenings and individualized assessments, promoting dancer health and injury prevention.
• Performance Platforms: Students have numerous opportunities to perform, from major departmental productions to student-led initiatives like the Mather Dance Collective, allowing them to hone their stage presence.
• Career Preparation: Graduates pursue diverse paths, including academic appointments as professors, leading dance programs, dancing with renowned companies (e.g., Martha Graham Dance Co.), and even transitioning into fields like physical therapy, demonstrating strong career outcomes.
• Small Cohorts and High Faculty-to-Student Ratio: Graduate programs often feature small cohorts (e.g., 5 students or fewer per MA cohort) and a favorable 1:5 faculty-to-student ratio, ensuring significant one-on-one attention and personalized guidance.

For those interested in exploring the academic and artistic opportunities at the Department of Dance at Case Western Reserve University, here is the essential contact information:

Address: Mather Dance, 11201 Bellflower Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA

Phone: (216) 368-2854

Mobile Phone: +1 216-368-2854

For Ohio residents passionate about dance, the Department of Dance at Case Western Reserve University offers an unparalleled educational and artistic experience. Located in Cleveland’s vibrant University Circle, it’s a world-class institution right here in our backyard. This department is uniquely suitable for locals because it provides rigorous academic degrees (BA, MA, MFA) alongside intensive technical training, allowing students to explore dance as both an art form and a field of scholarly inquiry. The presence of pioneering programs like the Dancer Wellness Program demonstrates a deep commitment to the holistic well-being of its artists. Whether you're a high school student contemplating a dance major, a seasoned dancer seeking advanced training, or simply an Ohioan looking to attend a high-quality dance performance, CWRU's Dance Department provides access to a top-tier performing arts environment without having to leave the state. Its esteemed faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong connections within the professional dance world ensure that local students receive an education and experience that is both globally recognized and locally accessible, making it a true cultural gem for Ohio.

Department of Dance at Case Western Reserve University

Mather Dance, 11201 Bellflower Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA