Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Diverse Dance Styles at Goldsmiths, University of London, is a unique program that offers intensive training in four distinct dance genres: African, Caribbean, contemporary dance, and hip hop. It emphasizes collaboration, community engagement, and employment preparation through industry links and work placements. The program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation for a diverse and successful career in the dance industry.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The BA (Hons) Diverse Dance Styles
is a unique program offered by Goldsmiths, University of London, in collaboration with IRIE! dance theatre. It is the only program of its kind in the UK, presenting four distinct dance genres equally: African, Caribbean, contemporary dance, and hip hop.
Objectives:
- Equip students with a solid foundation in all four dance genres through intensive practical training.
- Foster a creative community by connecting students with professional dancers, independent artists, and community engagement programs.
- Prepare students for professional careers in diverse dance fields through industry links and work placements.
- Offer an employment-focused Year 3, focusing on teaching, administration, and performance with the Connectingvibes Touring Dance Company.
Program Description:
The BA (Hons) Diverse Dance Styles features a 70% practical-based curriculum integrated with theoretical studies exploring the cultural contexts of each dance form. Students develop technical proficiency in all four genres while progressively building their choreographic skills and performance experience. The program emphasizes collaboration and community engagement through its connection with IRIE! dance theatre and its ongoing projects. Students have the opportunity to network with professional artists and participate in community outreach initiatives.
Year 3:
This year focuses on employment preparation, offering teaching, administrative, and performance opportunities via the Connectingvibes Touring Dance Company.
Audition/Interview:
Prospective students participate in an audition workshop involving diverse dance styles, a creative workshop, and an interview. Prior experience in all four genres is not mandatory; however, commitment and potential for learning various dance forms are crucial. Non-standard qualifications and relevant life/work experience are considered on an individual basis.
Outline:
Year 1:
- Modules:
- Contemporary Dance Technique 1 & 2
- African and Caribbean Dance Technique 1 & 2
- Hip Hop Dance Styles
- Choreographic Practice 1 & 2
Year 2:
- Modules:
- Contemporary Dance Technique and Repertory
- African and Caribbean Dance Technique and Repertory
- Contemporary Dance Performance
- African and Caribbean Dance Performance
- Afro-Fusion Dance Styles
- Choreographic Fusion
- Site-Specific Performance
Year 3:
- Modules:
- Dance Technique: Fusion
- Independent Project
Options:
- Dance Repertory
- Dance Performance
- Teaching: Creative Planning
- Teaching: Creative Delivery
- The Foundation of Arts Management
- Arts Management: Linking with Industry
Other:
- The program is housed at the Moonshot Centre in New Cross, London.
- Students have the opportunity to join the IRIE! dance theatre performance company for industry experience.
- The program provides a strong foundation for a diverse and successful career in the dance industry.
