Department of Dance

For residents of Athens, Georgia, and the surrounding Clarke County region, the University of Georgia’s Department of Dance stands as a dynamic and enriching cultural cornerstone. More than just an academic department, it is a vibrant hub where the art of movement is explored, refined, and celebrated through rigorous training, innovative choreography, and engaging performances. Whether you're a prospective student considering a career in dance, a local dancer looking for advanced training, or simply a community member eager to experience compelling artistic expression, the Department of Dance offers a rich tapestry of opportunities.

The Department of Dance at UGA is dedicated to fostering creativity, individuality, and a profound respect for the art form. It provides a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses a wide array of dance styles, from the foundational elegance of ballet to the contemporary energy of hip hop and the rich traditions of West African dance. This commitment to diverse training, coupled with a strong emphasis on performance and theoretical understanding, makes the Department of Dance a leading institution in Georgia for developing versatile and self-directed artists. For those in Athens seeking a deeper connection with dance, either as a participant or an audience member, the Department of Dance offers an unparalleled experience right in our backyard.

The Department of Dance is centrally located within the University of Georgia campus at 263 Dance Building, Athens, GA 30602, USA. This placement makes it highly accessible for students, faculty, and local community members alike. Situated on the UGA campus, the Dance Building is well-integrated into the university's vibrant academic and cultural landscape.

For those commuting from various parts of Athens and the surrounding areas, the campus location benefits from Athens' public transportation system, including UGA's bus routes, which connect various parts of the city to the university. While specific parking details for visitors to the Dance Building may vary, the University of Georgia campus typically offers several parking decks and lots accessible to visitors, often with hourly or daily rates. Its proximity to other university facilities, downtown Athens, and various local amenities means that visiting the Department of Dance can be easily combined with other activities, enhancing its convenience for locals. This strategic location ensures that the Department of Dance is not only a center of academic excellence but also an accessible cultural resource for the entire Athens community.

Services Offered

• Undergraduate Dance Programs: The department offers a Bachelor of Arts (AB) degree in Dance through the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, providing comprehensive professional training in various dance forms.
• Diverse Dance Technique Classes: Instruction is provided in a wide range of styles, including Contemporary Modern, Jazz, Ballet, Aerial, Hip Hop, and West African dance. Courses in Tap and Ballroom are also available.
• Dance Theory and Critical Studies: Coursework extends beyond physical technique to include the technical, stylistic, historical, analytical, cultural, and performative aspects of dance.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have numerous opportunities to perform in various concerts each year, including annual student-choreographed showcases, UGA Dance company concerts, and a Black History Month event.
• Teacher Certification Program: Students can opt to earn P-12 Teacher Certification in Dance in Georgia, making UGA the only University System of Georgia school to offer this.
• Double Dawg Degree Option: A unique program allowing students to earn both an AB in Dance and an MA in Non-profit Management and Leadership in a combined five-year period.
• Study Away Programs: Opportunities for students to travel the world through special seminars, dance classes, and performing opportunities in locations like Ghana and New York City.
• Student Dance Companies: The department supports several student-led dance companies such as the CORE Concert Dance Company and the UGA Ballet Ensemble, which perform in various genres.
• New Dance Theatre: The department operates the New Dance Theatre, a sophisticated black box theater specifically designed to support dance and multimedia performances, serving as a venue for student and faculty work.
• Community Engagement: The department is an advocate for dance and the other arts, supporting dancers and dance organizations within Athens, the State of Georgia, and beyond.

Features / Highlights

• Comprehensive and Diverse Curriculum: A key highlight is the breadth of dance forms offered, from classical ballet and contemporary modern to jazz, hip hop, West African, aerial, tap, and ballroom. This diverse training prepares versatile dancers.
• Strong Emphasis on Performance: The department provides abundant performance opportunities through various student and faculty concerts, allowing students to gain invaluable stage experience and share their artistry with the public.
• Holistic Artistic and Academic Development: The curriculum not only focuses on technical proficiency and artistry but also on theoretical, critical, and creative perspectives, preparing students for multifaceted careers in the performing arts and related fields.
• Unique P-12 Teacher Certification: UGA's Department of Dance is the only institution in the University System of Georgia to offer P-12 Certification in Dance, a significant advantage for aspiring dance educators.
• Innovative Performance Venue: The New Dance Theatre, operated by the department, is a state-of-the-art black box theater with innovative lighting systems, specifically designed to support multimedia dance performances.
• Student-Centered Research and Creativity: The department encourages students to explore, experiment, and develop personal creativity and artistry, fostering a dynamic environment for original choreographic work.
• Experienced Faculty: The program is supported by a dedicated faculty committed to promoting a diverse, stimulating, and inclusive community, fostering excellence in dance education.
• Accredited Institution: The University of Georgia's dance program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD), ensuring high standards of education.
• Engagement with the Broader Arts Community: The department actively advocates for dance and other arts within the university, Athens, and the state, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape.
• "Classic City Swing" Connection: As highlighted by a review, the department likely hosts or participates in events like "Classic City Swing," indicating a connection to local social dance communities and opportunities for engaging with live music and dancers.

Contact Information

Address: 263 Dance Building, Athens, GA 30602, USA

Phone: (706) 542-4415

Mobile Phone: +1 706-542-4415

For residents of Athens, Georgia, the University of Georgia’s Department of Dance is an invaluable asset, offering a diverse array of opportunities for both aspiring dancers and appreciative audiences. Its suitability for locals stems from its accessibility, comprehensive programming, and its role as a cultural anchor within the community.

The department's central location on the UGA campus makes it a convenient destination for individuals across Athens and surrounding areas. This ease of access encourages local engagement, whether it's attending a performance, participating in a workshop, or considering academic pursuits in dance. The integration into the university system also means access to broader resources and a vibrant campus atmosphere.

For those passionate about dance, the Department offers unparalleled instruction across a wide spectrum of styles—from classical ballet and contemporary modern to the dynamic rhythms of hip hop and West African dance. This diversity ensures that individuals of all backgrounds and interests can find their niche and develop their skills under expert guidance. The emphasis on performance provides local audiences with frequent opportunities to witness cutting-edge choreography and talented dancers right here in Athens. Events like "Classic City Swing" exemplify the department's connection to the local social dance scene, fostering a sense of community beyond formal academic settings.

Beyond the artistic and educational offerings, the Department of Dance contributes significantly to the cultural vibrancy of Athens. It nurtures local talent, produces thought-provoking performances, and acts as an advocate for the arts, enriching the lives of all who engage with it. For Athens residents seeking to deepen their appreciation for dance, enroll in a world-class program, or simply enjoy a fantastic evening of performance, the University of Georgia’s Department of Dance is an indispensable and highly recommended local treasure.

Department of Dance

263 Dance Building, Athens, GA 30602, USA