Program Overview
The BFA in Commercial Dance prepares students for success in the entertainment industry. The program bridges the gap from classical dance technique to the professional world of commercial dance, with a focus on developing students' audition, performance, and choreography skills. Students train in various dance genres and work with major guest choreographers and renowned faculty. Graduates are prepared for careers in Broadway, national tours, television and film, and more.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The BFA in Commercial Dance is a comprehensive program that prepares students for success in the entertainment industry in New York City and Los Angeles. The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap from classical dance technique to the professional world of commercial dance, with a focus on developing students' audition, performance, and choreography skills. Students also have the opportunity to work with major guest choreographers and renowned faculty. The program provides students with the skills and experience they need to succeed in a competitive industry, including the ability to work in various dance genres, and to perform, choreograph, and teach.
Teaching:
The teaching methods used in the Commercial Dance, BFA program are not explicitly stated in the provided context, but it is mentioned that students will work with major guest choreographers and renowned faculty. This suggests a combination of practical experience, feedback from industry professionals, and guidance from experienced instructors.
Careers:
Graduates of the Commercial Dance, BFA program are prepared for careers in the entertainment industry. The program provides students with the skills and experience they need to pursue a variety of career paths, including:
- Broadway
- National tours
- Television and film
- Backup dancer
- Dance company member
- Choreographer The text also mentions that students gain additional "real-world" experience and many sign with agencies during the program or shortly after graduation.
Other:
- The program is one of the few dance programs in the country that truly opens doors to the industry.
- Students train in ballet, jazz, theater dance, hip hop, modern, tap, contemporary, aerial arts, and other dance styles.
- They also take acting, vocal music, and other electives to broaden their experience and marketability as a dancer.
- Students have multiple performance opportunities in student-driven shows as well as mainstage productions.
- Mainstage productions feature faculty and guest artist works, everything from new world premieres to noted repertory from major contemporary companies.
- Past companies include Paul Taylor (Company B), Jose Limon (Psalm), and residencies with Jessica Lang Dance, 10 Hairy Legs, and others.
- Numerous guest artists have created pieces in all genres of dance for the annual productions, Dance sPace (Fall) and Dance Out Loud (Spring).
- Guest artists include: Andy Blankenbuehler, Mandy Moore, Josh Bergasse, Jason Samuels Smith, Al Blackstone, Anthony Morigerato, Bo Park, Chloe Arnold, and Ephrat Asherie.
- The BFA in Commercial Dance major is a comprehensive, all-genre-inclusive program preparing you for success in the entertainment industry in New York City and Los Angeles.
- The program is ranked among the top 30 college dance programs in the country and #3 in the US for Choreography.
Pace University
Overview:
Pace University is a private university with campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including degrees in business, law, arts and sciences, health professions, education, computer science, and performing arts. Pace is known for its focus on experiential learning and its strong connections to the New York City business and cultural communities.
Services Offered:
Pace University provides a variety of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and other resources to help students succeed in their studies.Career Services:
Career counseling, job search assistance, internship placement, and networking opportunities.Student Life:
Clubs, organizations, sports teams, and other activities to enhance the student experience.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and other financial assistance options.Housing:
On-campus housing options for students at both the NYC and Westchester campuses.Library:
Access to a comprehensive library system with extensive resources for research and study.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Pace University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:
Clubs and Organizations:
Student-led clubs and organizations covering a variety of interests, from academics to athletics to the arts.Sports Teams:
NCAA Division II athletics programs in various sports.Performing Arts:
Opportunities to participate in theater, music, and dance programs.Campus Events:
Social events, lectures, workshops, and other activities throughout the year.Location:
The NYC campus offers easy access to the city's cultural attractions, while the Westchester campus provides a more traditional college town atmosphere.Key Reasons to Study There:
Experiential Learning:
Pace emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, research opportunities, and real-world projects.New York City Advantage:
The NYC campus provides access to a vast network of businesses, organizations, and cultural institutions.Career Outcomes:
Pace graduates have a strong track record of success in their chosen fields.Strong Alumni Network:
Pace has a large and active alumni network that provides support and mentorship to current students.Diverse Student Body:
Pace attracts students from a variety of backgrounds and cultures, creating a diverse and inclusive learning environment.Academic Programs:
Pace University offers a wide range of academic programs, including: