Dance Program

Recent news: - Faculty Search

Introduction
Dance is a program of the Department of Drama and Dance, offering beginning to advanced work within the liberal arts philosophy. Courses apply variously to arts distribution, culture, and world civilizations requirements of the University. Students can achieve a minor, supplement drama studies, fulfill requirements in other programs, and earn elective credit. Events vary by semester, including informal presentations of faculty/student/guest work. Thinking skills are prompted through creative and (or) written work in all classes. Some courses offer a chance to continue with advanced training although the program is not conservatory-oriented. Modern dance and creative work are the core elements of the western performance forms, and a number of non-western forms provide for a significant grouping of world dance courses. Faculty positions include: Senior Lecturer; Full-time, Half-time, and three Part-time Lecturers.

History
An academic dance scene began to grow under the leadership of the visionary Griselda White from 1970-1974. After existing in several academic contexts, the Trustees of the University approved the combining of dance and drama into a new Department of Drama and Dance in 1983. At that time, they appointed Associate Professor Alice Trexler (ret. '12) to the directorship of the "Dance Program." The leadership team as of September 2012 is Renata Celichowska (Director) and Daniel McCusker (Head Dance Performance).

Prospective Students
Although there are no dance classes on Friday or during the summer, with advance notice you may be able to schedule a meeting with the contact faculty member for prospective students, Renata Celichowska, or view a class (M-Th) during a regular academic semester. Most advanced classes are at the end of the day on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We do not review videos/DVDs as we serve both experienced and beginner students. (Ignore the common application on this point.) Let us know if you are considering a minor in dance. The academic profile of all dancers seeking admission to Tufts must be within the range established by Admissions.

Experienced dancers: before scheduling a visit
Review a set of questions (pdf) >

If these aspects of the Tufts Dance Program appeal to you as an experienced dance student, and if you plan to visit, then contact Renata Celichowska to schedule an appointment. Also, review directions to the dance facilities and offices in Jackson Gym. If you can't visit and have a follow-up question after reading this site, then contact Renata Celichowska.