University-Minnesota Dance

For aspiring dancers, passionate performers, and those simply seeking to engage with the vibrant world of movement, the University of Minnesota Dance program in Minneapolis stands as a preeminent institution. Nestled within the larger University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus, this program offers a comprehensive and rigorous dance education, cultivating artists, scholars, and future leaders in the field of dance. For local Minnesotans interested in pursuing dance at a collegiate level or experiencing high-caliber dance performances, the UMN Dance program is a vital cultural and educational asset right in the heart of the state. It provides a unique blend of academic rigor and artistic exploration, attracting talented individuals from across the region and beyond.

The University of Minnesota Dance program is part of the esteemed Department of Theatre Arts & Dance, fostering a collaborative and dynamic environment for creative expression and intellectual inquiry. While it is primarily an academic department offering degrees, it also contributes significantly to the local arts scene through various performances and public engagements. Described as being housed in a "really nice and architecturally stunning building," the physical space itself inspires creativity and dedication. Students and faculty benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, supporting a diverse curriculum that embraces various dance forms and theoretical studies. Whether you are considering a career in dance, looking to deepen your understanding of the art form, or simply wish to experience captivating dance performances, the University of Minnesota Dance program offers a rich tapestry of opportunities for the Minnesota community.

The University of Minnesota Dance program is primarily housed within the Barbara B. Barker Center for Dance, located at 500 21st Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA. This prime location on the West Bank of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus places it within a vibrant metropolitan area, easily accessible to residents throughout Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the wider metro region. Its position within a major university campus means it benefits from robust transportation infrastructure, including public transit options and various parking facilities.

For those traveling by car, nearby public parking facilities include Lot 94, the 21st Avenue Ramp, and the 19th Avenue Ramp, providing convenient options for visitors. The Barbara B. Barker Center for Dance is also designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a power door entrance on the east side of the building (off 21st Avenue S), wheelchair-accessible restrooms on the first floor, and an accessible elevator, ensuring that the facility is welcoming to all members of the community. Its central urban location makes it a cultural destination, easily integrated into a visit to the wider university campus or other attractions in Minneapolis.

The University of Minnesota Dance program offers a comprehensive suite of academic programs and artistic experiences, primarily tailored for degree-seeking students but also contributing to the broader community.

• Undergraduate Degrees:
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Dance: This degree emphasizes general studies of contemporary dance in a global context, preparing students for further studies in areas such as performance, choreography, dance theory, teaching, arts management, movement therapy, and kinesiology.
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance: A more rigorous and focused degree intended for students seeking an intensive pursuit of dance, including in-depth exploration of choreographic voice, performance skills, and high-level execution in multiple dance forms.
• Dance Minor: For students majoring in other fields, a Dance Minor allows them to engage deeply with dance, including core courses in various styles.
• Technique Courses: A wide range of dance technique courses are offered across various levels, including:
  • Modern/Contemporary Dance Technique
  • Ballet Technique (Classical)
  • Jazz Technique
  • Tap Technique
  • African Based Movement
  • Argentine Tango
  • Yoga
  • Pilates
  • Strength & Conditioning/Turns and Leaps
• Dance Theory and History: Complementing the technical training, courses in dance appreciation, dance history, and dance composition provide a strong academic foundation.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have numerous opportunities for performance and choreography in annual dance concerts with faculty and visiting artists. The UMN Dance Team, a highly decorated collegiate team, also provides extensive performance opportunities at athletic events and national competitions.
• Visiting Artists Program: The program brings in "Cowles Visiting Artists," providing students with exposure to a wide range of professional experiences and aesthetic approaches.
• Community Engagement (through associated clubs/events): While primarily academic, associated student groups like the UMN Ballroom Dance Club offer lessons open to anyone (not just students), contributing to the Twin Cities dance community. The University also hosts various dance performances and showcases open to the public throughout the year.
• Research and Creative Activities: The program supports faculty and student research, contributing to the broader knowledge and innovation within the dance field.

The University of Minnesota Dance program offers several compelling features that make it a standout choice for dance enthusiasts in Minnesota:

• Architecturally Stunning Building: The Barbara B. Barker Center for Dance is noted for being a "really nice and architecturally stunning building," providing an inspiring and aesthetically pleasing environment for learning and performance.
• Rigorous and Diverse Curriculum: The program offers a well-rounded education with a strong emphasis on both practical technique in various styles (ballet, modern, jazz, tap, etc.) and theoretical understanding through courses in dance history, appreciation, and composition.
• Experienced and Diverse Faculty: Dance faculty and visiting artists bring a wide range of professional experiences and teaching philosophies, providing students with a broad spectrum of training.
• Performance and Choreography Opportunities: Students regularly engage in performance opportunities in annual concerts and can develop their choreographic voice, preparing them for professional careers.
• National Champion Dance Team: The University of Minnesota Dance Team is one of the most successful collegiate dance programs in the country, with multiple national championships. This showcases the high level of talent and training within the university's dance community.
• Liberal Arts Foundation: As part of the College of Liberal Arts, the dance program combines rigorous artistic study with a broad liberal arts education, preparing students for diverse career paths and fostering critical thinking.
• Metropolitan Location: Being in Minneapolis provides students and faculty with access to a vibrant arts and culture scene, offering numerous opportunities for internships, performances, and networking within the professional dance world.
• Inclusive Environment: While an academic institution, the university's broader commitment to inclusivity and diversity is reflected in the dance program's embrace of different approaches and styles.

For detailed information about the University of Minnesota Dance program, including admissions, course offerings, and performance schedules, please use the following contact details:

Address: 500 21st Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA

Phone: (612) 624-5060

Mobile Phone: +1 612-624-5060

For Minnesota residents with a passion for dance, the University of Minnesota Dance program offers an exceptional and accessible pathway to both academic excellence and artistic fulfillment. Located conveniently in Minneapolis, it serves as a central hub for dance education, performance, and appreciation within the state. Whether you are a high school student considering a dance degree, a community member interested in attending a high-quality dance performance, or an adult looking for ballroom dance lessons through associated clubs, UMN Dance provides a rich array of opportunities.

The program's commitment to rigorous technical training across diverse styles, coupled with a strong academic foundation in dance theory and history, ensures that its students are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the dance world and beyond. The opportunity to learn from experienced faculty and visiting artists, perform in a stunning facility, and engage with a vibrant metropolitan arts scene makes it an ideal environment for artistic growth. For Minnesotans, the University of Minnesota Dance program is not just a prestigious academic institution; it is a dynamic cultural resource that enriches the entire community through the power of movement and artistic expression.

University-Minnesota Dance

500 21st Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA