HCC Dance Program

For aspiring dancers and performing arts enthusiasts across Florida, particularly in the Tampa Bay area, identifying a program that offers both rigorous training and academic pathways is essential. The HCC Dance Program, part of Hillsborough Community College, stands as a cornerstone for dance education in our community. It’s more than just a series of classes; it’s a comprehensive program designed to cultivate well-rounded, thinking dancers who are prepared for transfer to four-year institutions or direct entry into the vibrant world of professional dance. For local users, this means access to high-quality instruction and facilities right here in Tampa.

The HCC Dance Program is committed to integrating artistry and scholarship, forging connections between performance, creativity, intellectual curiosity, and advocacy. Their mission is to enhance the knowledge, appreciation, and growth of dance as a performing art, providing students with opportunities to improve their skills as dancers, communicators, and creative artists. This program is an ideal stepping stone for those who wish to pursue a bachelor's degree in dance or further their dance training at the university level. It's a place where students can develop foundational skills in concert dance technique, performance, improvisation, composition, and auditioning, ensuring they are well-prepared for upper-division dance courses and future careers in the field.

The HCC Dance Program is conveniently located at 1505 E Palm Ave 2nd Floor, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. This address places it within the historic Ybor City district, a vibrant and accessible part of Tampa. The urban setting offers students the advantage of being immersed in a culturally rich area with various amenities and transportation options. The program's location within Hillsborough Community College's Ybor City Campus means it benefits from the broader college infrastructure, including public transport links and potentially campus parking facilities, making it feasible for students commuting from different parts of Tampa and the surrounding counties in Florida. Its central position enhances its suitability for local students seeking a serious commitment to dance education.

The facilities dedicated to the HCC Dance Program are designed to support comprehensive dance training. They boast a state-of-the-art dance studio spanning 2,700 square feet, featuring sprung flooring that can also convert into a performance space for student choreography showcases and other performances. In addition, there is a 1,000 square foot rehearsal studio, also equipped with a sprung wood floor and Marley surface, crucial for safe and effective dance practice. Beyond the main studios, students have access to an observation room with PC computers and Apple iMacs, and a fitness room complete with physical therapy and fitness equipment, including Pilates machines. A secure locker area is also provided for personal items. These dedicated resources underscore HCC's commitment to providing a professional and conducive environment for dance education, aligning with industry standards and preparing students for the demands of a dance career.

Services Offered:

• Associate in Arts (AA) Degree in Dance: A pathway for students intending to transfer to a four-year university for a bachelor's degree in dance.
• Comprehensive Dance Technique Classes: Rigorous training in various concert dance forms, including ballet, modern dance, and jazz.
• Dance Composition and Choreography: Courses focused on developing individual creative voice through improvisational and compositional techniques.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have opportunities to perform in department productions, including student showcases and the HCC Dance Company Concerts.
• Master Classes and Guest Artist Residencies: Exposure to nationally and internationally renowned guest artists through workshops and performances.
• Dance Appreciation and History: Courses that develop an understanding of dance as an art form within cultural and historical contexts.
• Dance Practicum and Ensemble: Opportunities for practical experience and collaborative performance.
• Small Class Sizes: Facilitates more personalized attention from faculty.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Various scholarships may be available for eligible dance students.
• Audition Preparation: Guidance and training for university and professional auditions.

Features / Highlights:

• Strong Foundation for University Transfer: Specifically designed for students aiming to pursue a bachelor's degree in dance, providing essential foundational skills.
• Superior Dance Faculty: The program is supported by dedicated and experienced dance faculty who are committed to student development.
• State-of-the-Art Dance Facilities: Includes large, professionally equipped dance studios with sprung floors, a fitness room, and observation areas.
• Diverse Curriculum: Offers training across multiple dance techniques, as well as theory, history, and choreography.
• Numerous Performance Opportunities: Regular chances for students to showcase their talents and gain stage experience.
• Guest Artist Engagements: Provides valuable exposure to a wide range of dance professionals and artistic perspectives.
• Focus on Artistic Exploration and Critical Thinking: Encourages students to develop their individual creative voice and analyze dance works.
• Holistic Development: Aims to create well-rounded dancers who are not only technically proficient but also artistically and intellectually engaged.
• Supportive Community: Fosters a sense of community among students and faculty, dedicated to the development of dancers.

Contact Information:

Address: 1505 E Palm Ave 2nd Floor, Tampa, FL 33605, USA

Phone: (813) 253-7623

While specific reviews directly pertaining to the HCC Dance Program are not as readily available as general college reviews, the information from Hillsborough Community College's official channels highlights the program's dedication. HCC, as an institution, generally receives positive feedback for its supportive learning environment, dedicated professors, and useful resources. Students often appreciate the smaller class sizes offered at community colleges, which allow for more personal attention and better interaction with instructors. The college also emphasizes its commitment to student success, offering various support services and fostering a welcoming vibe.

The Dance Program specifically promotes a community where faculty and students forge connections between performance, creativity, intellectual curiosity, and advocacy. This suggests an environment where students are not just taught steps but are encouraged to become thinking artists. The investment in state-of-the-art facilities, including a large studio that converts into a performance space and a fitness room with specialized equipment, further demonstrates the program's commitment to providing a professional-level training ground for its students. The emphasis on diverse technical practices, exposure to various dance studies, and opportunities to work with guest artists collectively contribute to a rich educational experience designed to prepare students for success in the dance field.

Conclusion: Why HCC Dance Program is Suitable for Locals

For residents of Florida, particularly those in the Tampa Bay area with a passion for dance, the HCC Dance Program represents an outstanding local resource. Its convenient location in the heart of Ybor City makes it easily accessible for aspiring dancers across the region. More importantly, the program offers a robust and comprehensive curriculum designed to provide a strong foundation for both academic transfer to a four-year dance program and direct entry into professional dance careers. With superior dance faculty, state-of-the-art facilities including professional studios and a fitness room, and ample performance opportunities, students receive high-quality training. The program's emphasis on developing well-rounded, thinking dancers through a diverse array of techniques and creative exploration makes it an ideal environment for artistic and personal growth. For Floridians looking for a serious yet supportive academic pathway into the world of dance, the HCC Dance Program offers an invaluable and accessible opportunity to elevate their skills and pursue their dreams right here in their local community.

HCC Dance Program

1505 E Palm Ave 2nd Floor, Tampa, FL 33605, USA