School of Dance

For anyone in Arizona with a passion for movement, artistic expression, and professional-level training, the University of Arizona School of Dance in Tucson stands as a beacon of excellence. Located within the Ina Gittings Building, this nationally recognized program is a cornerstone of the performing arts community, dedicated to cultivating the next generation of dancers, choreographers, and educators. The School of Dance is celebrated for its unique "triple-track" curriculum, offering rigorous and equally emphasized training in ballet, modern, and jazz dance, distinguishing it from many other programs across the country. Beyond its academic mission, the school also serves as a vital cultural resource for the local Arizona community, regularly presenting high-quality student performances that are both accessible and professionally prepared. These showcases allow locals to witness the incredible athletic ability and grace of these talented students, making it a truly engaging experience for dance enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

The University of Arizona School of Dance is situated within the Ina Gittings Building at 1737 E University Blvd #121, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA. This location on the vibrant University of Arizona campus places it in a central and well-known area of Tucson, making it reasonably accessible for residents throughout the city and surrounding regions. As a part of a major university, the building is generally well-connected by public transport routes and is a familiar landmark.

However, visitors should be mindful that campus parking can sometimes present challenges, especially during peak university hours or large events. While the Ina Gittings Building itself is an academic and performance space, accessing it within a busy university environment might require a short walk from available parking garages or lots. For those attending performances, particularly individuals with mobility concerns, it is highly advisable to research parking options and potential walking distances in advance. The University of Arizona typically provides information on accessible routes and parking for campus venues. Despite any parking considerations, the central location ensures that the School of Dance remains a convenient and prominent hub for dance education and appreciation in Arizona.

• Professional Dance Training Programs: The School of Dance offers comprehensive undergraduate (Bachelor of Fine Arts) and graduate (Master of Fine Arts) degrees in dance, with a focus on preparing students for professional careers in performance, choreography, education, and related fields.
• Triple-Track Curriculum: A distinctive feature is its balanced and intensive training across three core disciplines: ballet, modern dance, and jazz dance. This provides students with a versatile skill set.
• Diverse Technique Classes: Students receive instruction in various dance techniques, including classical ballet (with pointe and men's technique), diverse modern dance vocabularies (e.g., Humphrey, Graham, Limón, Cunningham, Taylor, Lewitzky), and a wide range of jazz styles. Additional classes may include tap, African dance, hip-hop, improvisation, and musical theatre dance.
• Choreography and Performance Opportunities: The curriculum heavily emphasizes performance, with ample opportunities for students to participate in faculty concerts, student showcases, and main stage productions at the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre (a short distance from Ina Gittings Building) and sometimes other venues. Students also learn choreography and creative movement.
• Dance Education and Scholarship: Beyond technique, the school offers courses in dance history, biomechanics for dancers, music for dancers, career planning, and dance theory, providing a well-rounded education.
• Community Performances: The school regularly stages affordable and professionally prepared student performances open to the public, offering Arizonans access to high-quality dance artistry. These include major season performances, student-choreographed works, and potentially smaller showcases within the Ina Gittings Building.
• Guest Artist Residencies and Workshops: The program frequently hosts renowned guest artists and choreographers who provide masterclasses and set new works on the students, enriching their training and offering unique performance experiences for audiences.
• Community Engagement: Through performances and outreach, the School of Dance actively engages with the wider Arizona community, sharing the art of dance.

• Nationally Recognized Program: The University of Arizona School of Dance is consistently ranked among the top dance programs in the country, attracting talented students and faculty from across the globe.
• Renowned Faculty: The school boasts an esteemed faculty composed of highly experienced educators, performers, and choreographers who are experts in their respective fields, ensuring top-tier instruction.
• Exceptional Performance Venues: While core classes are in Ina Gittings, student performances often take place at the adjacent, award-winning Stevie Eller Dance Theatre, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and intimate setting. The Ina Gittings Building also contains dance studios suitable for smaller performances and showcases.
• Comprehensive Training: The unique "triple-track" emphasis on ballet, modern, and jazz provides students with a broad and versatile foundation, preparing them for diverse professional careers in the dance world.
• Strong Alumni Network: Graduates of the UA School of Dance have gone on to successful careers with prestigious dance companies, Broadway shows, Cirque du Soleil, cruise lines, and as educators and choreographers, reflecting the quality of the program.
• Affordable & High-Quality Performances: As noted by local attendees, student performances are not only "inexpensive" but also "professionally prepared," offering incredible value and a chance to witness emerging talent.
• Rich History: The School of Dance has a long-standing history of evolving within the University of Arizona, developing from early physical education courses to a full-fledged, highly respected department.

Address: Ina Gittings Building, 1737 E University Blvd #121, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

Phone: (520) 621-4698

Mobile Phone: +1 520-621-4698

For the most current information on performance schedules, ticket purchases, or academic inquiries, it is highly recommended to visit the official University of Arizona School of Dance website or contact them directly.

For residents of Arizona, particularly those in and around Tucson, the University of Arizona School of Dance presents an exceptional opportunity to engage with and benefit from a world-class performing arts institution right in their community. This school is uniquely suitable for locals for several compelling reasons, extending beyond just its academic offerings.

Firstly, the most direct benefit for Arizonans is the consistent access to high-quality, professional dance performances. As one local reviewer enthusiastically states, "It's such a joy to see the athletic ability and grace of these students." These performances, often held at the nearby Stevie Eller Dance Theatre, are not only "inexpensive" but also "professionally prepared," making them an accessible and enriching cultural outing for families, individuals, and anyone looking for engaging entertainment. By attending, locals directly support the burgeoning talent of young artists, many of whom are from Arizona, and contribute to the vibrant cultural economy of Tucson.

Secondly, for aspiring dancers in Arizona, the School of Dance offers an unparalleled pathway to professional training without having to leave the state. Its unique "triple-track" approach in ballet, modern, and jazz provides a comprehensive and versatile education, preparing students for diverse careers in the dance world. This means local high school students passionate about dance can pursue their dreams at a top-tier institution close to home. The presence of such a prestigious program also enriches the broader dance ecosystem in Arizona, potentially inspiring local studios and fostering a higher standard of dance across the state.

Furthermore, the School of Dance is an integral part of the University of Arizona, a pillar of the Tucson community. Its presence brings a dynamic energy to the local arts scene through various showcases, workshops, and community engagement initiatives. This allows locals to connect with artistic endeavors that reflect diverse dance forms and cultural expressions. While parking on a university campus can sometimes require planning, the overall benefit of having such a highly-regarded dance institution within reach far outweighs any minor logistical considerations. The sheer talent, dedication, and professionalism on display from the students and faculty make every visit a rewarding experience. For anyone in Arizona seeking to be captivated by exceptional dance, support emerging artists, or even pursue a serious career in dance, the University of Arizona School of Dance is an invaluable local treasure.

School of Dance

Ina Gittings Building, 1737 E University Blvd #121, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA