George Mason University School of Dance

Introduction / Overview

For aspiring dancers and performing arts enthusiasts across Virginia and beyond, the George Mason University School of Dance stands as a distinguished institution, widely recognized as one of the premier programs for professional preparation in dance. Located within the expansive and vibrant George Mason University campus in Fairfax, VA, this School of Dance offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed to cultivate highly skilled, versatile, and thoughtful artists. It provides a unique blend of conservatory-style training with the breadth of a liberal arts education, preparing students not just as performers, but as well-rounded individuals ready for diverse careers in the arts – whether as dancers, choreographers, educators, or administrators. The program is characterized by its strong emphasis on dance technique, intensive theoretical study, invaluable guest artist residencies, and abundant performance opportunities, ensuring students gain real-world experience. Students are encouraged to integrate both body and mind, stretching their creative boundaries while deepening their understanding of core anatomical principles. This holistic approach to dance education is what makes George Mason University School of Dance a top choice for those serious about pursuing a career or advanced study in dance.

Location and Accessibility

The George Mason University School of Dance is nestled within the beautiful campus of George Mason University at 4400 University Dr ms3d4, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA. Fairfax is a major hub in Northern Virginia, offering excellent accessibility from various parts of the Commonwealth and the broader Washington D.C. metropolitan area. The university's location near major roadways such as I-66 and Route 123 ensures relatively easy driving access for students and visitors coming from surrounding counties like Loudoun, Prince William, Arlington, and Alexandria. The campus itself is well-equipped with parking facilities, including the Mason Pond Parking Deck adjacent to the Center for the Arts, which is highly convenient for those attending classes or performances. Furthermore, George Mason University is served by a robust public transportation network. Fairfax City's CUE Bus system provides connections throughout the city and to the Vienna/Fairfax-GMU Metrorail station (Orange Line), offering a direct link to Washington D.C. and other key regional destinations. This makes the School of Dance readily accessible for both residential and commuting students, ensuring that a high-caliber dance education is within reach for a wide demographic of aspiring artists in the Virginia region.

Services Offered

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance: The core program, offering intensive professional training in dance.
• Daily Technique Classes: Students engage in rigorous daily training in both modern dance and ballet, foundational to the curriculum.
• Choreography Series: A four-semester sequence including Improvisation, Composition I (solo), Composition II (group), and Choreography, fostering creative development.
• Dance History and Theory Courses: In-depth academic study of dance as an art form, its cultural contexts, and critical analysis.
• Dance Performance Opportunities: Regular opportunities to perform in professionally produced concerts and informal showcases at campus venues.
• Guest Artist Residencies: Exposure to and training from renowned guest artists who set work on Mason dancers.
• Dance Production Courses: Practical training in backstage production support, including lighting, sound, stage management, and wardrobe.
• Anatomy and Kinesiology for Dance: Courses focused on understanding the body's mechanics for injury prevention and enhanced performance.
• Somatic Studies: Exploration of mind-body connection and awareness relevant to dance practice.
• Elective Dance Styles: Offerings in various styles such as African, Afro-Caribbean, Spanish, Asian, Butoh, Uzbekistan, Indian, Hawaiian, jazz, and tap to broaden student versatility.
• Athletic Training Clinic: Access to a dedicated clinic with Pilates equipment, weights, and athletic trainers for dancer health and wellness.
• Academic Advising: Comprehensive support for course planning and academic progression within the dance program.

Features / Highlights

• Premier Professional Preparation: The School is "acknowledged as one of the premier institutions offering professional preparation for a career in dance," indicating a high standard of education.
• Rigorous Conservatory Training within a Liberal Arts Context: Students benefit from intensive dance training complemented by a broad university education, preparing them for diverse career paths.
• Daily Ballet and Modern Technique: A core strength, ensuring students develop a strong technical foundation across key dance forms.
• Abundant Performance Opportunities: Students perform in five professionally produced concerts and two informal showcases annually across three campus venues: the Concert Hall (2,000 seats), Harris Theatre (500 seats), and the Dance Performance Studio (100 seats).
• Experienced and Accomplished Faculty: The faculty comprises seasoned professionals, including the Director Susan Shields (recipient of the Choo-San Goh Award for Choreography) and various adjunct and assistant professors with extensive professional backgrounds.
• Exceptional Facilities: Boasting "among the country's best" dance facilities, including original sunlit studios and new spaces in the deLaski wing with high ceilings, conditioning labs, and treatment rooms.
• Focus on Choreographic Development: A strong emphasis on developing students' choreographic voice through a structured series of composition courses, leading to opportunities to present their own work.
• Holistic Dancer Wellness: Integration of anatomy, kinesiology, and somatic studies, along with access to an athletic training clinic, promotes the long-term health and well-being of dancers.
• Diverse Global Perspectives: Opportunities to explore dance forms from around the globe, broadening artistic and cultural understanding.
• Strong Alumni Network: Graduates go on to dance with renowned companies worldwide and pursue successful careers in various arts fields.

Contact Information

Address: 4400 University Dr ms3d4, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA

Phone: (703) 993-1114

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For locals in Virginia with a passion for dance, whether as aspiring professionals or dedicated enthusiasts, the George Mason University School of Dance in Fairfax offers an unparalleled educational and artistic experience. Its strategic location within one of the region's largest and most accessible universities makes it a convenient and desirable choice for students from across Northern Virginia and beyond. What truly sets this institution apart is its commitment to providing a holistic dance education that combines rigorous technical training in modern dance and ballet with comprehensive academic study. Students aren't just taught to dance; they're taught to think critically about dance, to choreograph, and to understand the historical and cultural contexts of their art form. The numerous performance opportunities, held in impressive campus venues, allow students to gain invaluable stage experience and share their artistry with the local community, enriching the cultural landscape of Fairfax. Furthermore, the expert faculty, comprised of accomplished dancers and choreographers, provides mentorship that fosters profound growth, as evidenced by the successful careers of their alumni in prestigious companies globally. The focus on dancer wellness, through dedicated athletic training and scientific study of movement, underscores the school's commitment to nurturing healthy, sustainable artistic careers. For any Virginia resident seeking a world-class dance education that prepares students for the realities of the professional arts world while fostering a deep love and understanding of dance, George Mason University School of Dance is an exceptional and highly suitable local choice.

George Mason University School of Dance

4400 University Dr ms3d4, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA