The Classen School of Advanced Studies Dance Department provides academic and
pre-professional training for students who wish to pursue their passion for dance in a
professional environment. The dance department offers rigorous training in an array of dance
styles needed to suit the 21st century dancer including, classical ballet and modern dance, jazz
dance, and beyond. The program’s required courses are designed to give students an understanding
and appreciation of dance, the choreographic process, dance history, and an in-depth study of various
dance techniques, production, and the craft of performing. Set in an encouraging atmosphere of
cooperative learning and group process, students begin to identify and develop their artistic
appreciation and personal creative voice. Through our rigorous and nurturing conservatory-like
experience, students will explore a diverse dance experience that develops young performers into
technically sound, artistically sensitive, and stylistically versatile professional dancers.