This course will explore some key historical moments in the history of modern Western theatrical dance, starting with French Romantic Ballet of the early 19^th century, proceeding through ballet and modern dance history in Europe, Russia, and the US, to the present time. The course has a three-fold aim: 1) to help students piece together a chronological "narration" of the development of dance as a modern theater art; 2) to help students learn to decipher and discuss choreographic "texts" (as encountered in video tapes and live performances); 3) to introduce the craft of writing about dance, through reading dance critics and historians, and through writing their own papers. Materials for the course will be the books on the reading list, articles handed out by the teacher, dance videos and live dance performances at Bard and, if an expedition can be arranged, in New York City. Students will be required to write some short papers --critical reviews of video and live performances - and one longer research paper.

Intensive technique studies are essential to a serious dance student's training. Intending and current dance majors must register for four credits of dance technique each semester of their four years at Bard. Students are welcome to watch classes currently being offered to learn about the different modern dance styles/methods of teaching and the ballet for modern dancers. Unless otherwise noted all dance classes are modern dance technique and carry F distribution credit. Priority is given to students who register for 4 credits; intending dance majors MUST register for 4 credits.

One credit each. Classes in modern dance and ballet intended for the beginner; no previous dance experience necessary. Open to all students. Classes may be taken for 2, 3 or 4 credits which are indivisible: All sections must be passed in order to receive credit. New students with previous dance experience should speak with the dance professors before registration. Unless otherwise stated, these are modern dance classes.

One credit each. Intensive technique studies are essential to a serious dance student's training. Intending and current dance majors must register for four credits of dance technique each semester of their four years at Bard. The 4 credits are indivisible: all four one credit sections must be passed in order to receive credit for the course. Open to non-majors with experience, inclination, and permission of the instructor. Non-majors may register for 2, 3 or 4 credits, which are indivisible.

Dance Composition and Dance Workshop in Performance and Production are required of all dance majors; before Moderation students enroll in both sections of 217 and Dance Workshop for four credits; Juniors and Seniors enroll in 317 and Dance Workshop. Open to non-majors with proven experience, inclination, and permission of the instructor. All students of Dance Composition must attend Dance Workshop in Performance and Production. The Dance Program aims to prepare students, in as versatile a way as possible, to understand and practice the art of dance and performance. To this end, the Program presents four productions that are open to the Bard community and the public. Moderation and Senior Project work is prepared for and performed in these four productions. Dance Workshop in Performance and Production creates and sustains our community of performers and collaborators, on stage and behind the scenes. Members of the community are welcome to join the workshop, and may receive one credit by registering in a tutorial with Jean Churchill.

This course will introduce students to a method that will restore muscular balance and efficiency in movement. Body Balancing Technique is taught on mats and also on specialized equipment created to give variable resistance and support for muscular action. The technique emphasizing body alignment and breath work enables the dancer to direct the movement out from the physical center. During the course of studies, the student will work towards precisely executed, smooth, rhythmic movements. The technique improves alignment, balance, and control, and opens the body to its full range of motion and ease. Practiced regularly the technique aids in preventing muscle and soft tissue injury. Limited to eight students, upper college dance majors.

One credit. This studio seeks to provide a basis for composition work by the improvisatory approach. Open to intermediate and advanced dancers or by permission of the instructor. Speak with Susan Osberg before registration.

By invitation of instructor. Speak with the professor before registration.