Dance
Dance
Program Purpose: Students who complete Dance courses will develop performing arts appreciation through exploration and analysis of dance practices in various cultural and historical contexts. Dance activity students will condition the body, develop alignment and postural awareness, and make personal discoveries through expressive practices and performance.
People who study the various specialties of dance (ballet, modern, jazz, tap and hip hop) may decide on a professional career on stage, television or in films. Many become teachers in public or private schools as well as in dance centers and studios. The dance program is designed for both the student who wishes to major in dance and the student seeking to experience dance technique classes. The grace, carriage and confidence one gains in dance as well as the physical agility and flexibility are beneficial in all aspects of life. Dance activity classes fulfill the Physical Education requirement for graduation.
Transfer Information
Students planning to transfer need to consult with a counselor, prepare a Student Education Plan, and take advantage of the support services available in the University Transfer Center located in Fountain Hall, (805) 378-1536. Most universities require an audition for level placement in technique.
NOTE: Some courses may have credit limitations. Refer to the Family, Credit Limitations, UC Credit Limitations areas, and the UC Transfer Course Agreement page for details.
Examines dance through lectures and viewing dance performances both live and on video. Presents the developments of dance within each of the major genres and analyzes the factors which have influenced change in dance historically, culturally, and as an art form.
Examines dance through lecture and viewing dance performances both live and on video. Presents the developments of dance within each of the major genres and analyzes the factors which have influenced change in dance historically, culturally, and as an art form. Honors work challenges students to be more analytical and creative through expanded assignments, real-world applications and enrichment opportunities.
Introduces an array of historical and cultural influences on American concert dance forms. Explores the values seen in ballet from its origin in Renaissance Europe to the present. Addresses the cultural streams fostering the emergence of twentieth century modern and jazz dance, including the contemporary scene which is international and eclectic.
Introduces fundamental ballet technique and terminology, general principles of alignment, centering and posture as it relates to ballet. Includes exercises at the barre to develop flexibility, strength, control, coordination and resilience and center practice of port de bras, simple adage and allegro movements. Moorpark College Faculty has defined Ballet Technique as a family of courses which includes DANC M09A, M10A, M10B, M10C, M10D and M40. A student may take a maximum of four (4) courses from a family.
Continues to introduce new movement and terminology that is part of the fundamental ballet technique. Focuses on proper alignment in Barre exercises for a strong technical foundation. Begins training in center with adage and allegro patterns. Moorpark College Faculty has defined Ballet Technique as a family of courses which includes DANC M09A, M10A, M10B, M10C, M10D and M40. A student may take a maximum of four (4) courses from a family.
Continues development of ballet technique at the beginning level. Focuses on consistency, stamina and details in performance of ballet at the barre and in simple center sequences. Emphasizes the mechanics and performance of transitions, weight shifts, balances, turning and extension in preparation for intermediate-level training. Addresses specific student needs for improvement. Moorpark College Faculty has defined Ballet Technique as a family of courses which includes DANC M09A, M10A, M10B, M10C, M10D and M40. A student may take a maximum of four (4) courses from a family.
Continues the study of ballet technique at the intermediate-level both at the barre and in center work, with emphasis on the physical discipline within ballet forms and the physical abilities necessary to execute movements. Develops an appreciation of ballet as a creative art form. Moorpark College Faculty has defined Ballet Technique as a family of courses which includes DANC M09A, M10A, M10B, M10C, M10D and M40. A student may take a maximum of four (4) courses from a family.
Presents analysis and application of kinesthetic principles for advanced ballet to further develop skills, techniques and physical capabilities. Analyzes and discusses current trends in ballet and applies them in performance. Moorpark College Faculty has defined Ballet Technique as a family of courses which includes DANC M09A, M10A, M10B, M10C, M10D and M40. A student may take a maximum of four (4) courses from a family.
Introduces basic movement skills in jazz dance technique, emphasizing an understanding and appreciation of jazz as an artistic dance form. Focuses on alignment of the body, strength, flexibility, simple locomotor patterns and stylistic movement.
Develops jazz dance technique at the beginning level. Continues to develop the student's alignment of the body, strength, flexibility, coordination in locomotor patterns and stylistic movement.
Develops jazz dance skills at the intermediate level. Emphasizes style and refinement of technical ability. Stresses more complex patterns and combinations to promote fluency in the dance form.
Presents analysis and application of jazz dance technique at the advanced level with an emphasis on connectivity, fluency and mastery of the genre. Emphasizes performance style, form, technical ability and choreographic skills at the advanced/pre-professional level.
Covers the fundamentals of modern dance techniques based on the teaching of modern dance masters such as Graham, Humphrey, Limon and Laban. Develops fundamental modern technique, basic locomotor movements, movement dynamics and qualities, elements of modern dance history, evaluation and application of dance composition, and the understanding and appreciation of modern dance as an art form.
Continues to develop the basic skills in modern dance techniques based on the teaching of modern dance masters such as Graham, Humphrey, Limon, and Laban. Develops beginning modern technique, simple improvisation and composition, the understanding of the principles of alignment and motion, and the experience of movement in more complex rhythmic forms.
Continues to study intermediate modern dance technique with an emphasis on increasing flexibility, strength and coordination. Studies dance phrases/combinations as they integrate elements of rhythm, design, dynamics and motivation. Develops an appreciation of modern dance as a creative art form.
Studies modern dance technique and performance at the advanced level with an emphasis on increasing flexibility, strength and coordination. Integrates elements of rhythm, design, dynamics and motivation in classroom phrases/combinations and performance. Develops an appreciation of modern dance as a creative art form.
Introduces the fundamentals of tap dance technique and performance. Emphasizes the rudiments of tap as the foundation for more advanced practices.
Further develops tap dance technique at the beginning level. Focuses on the development of the motor skills and coordination of the dancers, expanding their tap dance vocabulary and fluency as performers. Integrates elements of style in performance and contextualizes the dance through historical awareness.
Builds upon basic tap vocabulary and techniques. Introduces musical theory concepts as they apply to the syncopated rhythms of tap dance providing an opportunity to further develop motor coordination and rhythm. Explores the fusion of tap with other dance techniques.
Develops tap dance vocabulary and techniques at the advanced-level. Presents challenging syncopated rhythms and high-level motor coordination. Integrates the performance of tap tricks including pick ups, pull backs and wings, into complex rhythmic patterns. Emphasizes stylistic elements in various historical contexts. Furthers the development of the individual in choreographing for tap dance.
Introduces the theory and techniques of dance composition basics. Focuses on movement generation as enhanced through the analysis of choreographic exercises in space, time, shape and movement dynamics. Emphasizes student application of choreographic concepts through the development of solo and group movement compositions.
Expands upon the principles of dance composition as an art form through practical and theoretical applications. Explores the concepts of space, time and energy in creating dances. Integrates dance movement technique as a form of expression to communicate literal and non-literal themes. Emphasizes small group choreography as well as improvisations.
Introduces the fundamentals of hip hop dancing, pop and lock, hip hop funk, krumping, freestyling, break dancing, syncopations and rhythms as applied in commercial hip hop venues. Develops flexibility, strength, control, coordination, endurance, style and the understanding and appreciation of hip hop and its cultural significance and history.
Presents principles of hip hop dance as a technique and embodied cultural practice at the beginning level. Builds upon foundational knowledge to further develop techniques such as pop and lock, hip hop funk, krumping, freestyling, break dancing, syncopations and rhythms as applied in commercial hip hop venues. Develops flexibility, strength, control, coordination, endurance, style and the understanding and appreciation of hip hop and its cultural significance and history at the beginning level.
Continues the development of hip hop dance as a technique and embodied cultural practice at the intermediate level. Focuses on performance accuracy and personal style in choreographic and improvisational settings as applied in commercial hip hop venues. Applies flexibility, strength, control, coordination, endurance, style and the understanding and appreciation of hip hop and its cultural significance and history at the intermediate level.
Continues the development of hip hop dance as a technique and embodied cultural practice at the advanced level with an emphasis on leadership in an ensemble setting, choreographic tasks and collaborative projects. Emphasizes the creative and cultural application of the dance form to current commercial practices and specific techniques needed to meet those needs.
Emphasizes performance specific to the American musical in either a complete production of a single musical or as a revue of dance production numbers from two or more musicals. Focuses on musical theater dance skills through rehearsal and performance.
Presents information pertaining to the anatomy, kinesiology, nutrition, basic injury prevention and self-care practices needed for a dancer's best performance. Includes a survey of supplemental training methods often used by dancers to support their performance. Practices fundamental conditioning and repatterning techniques often used to improve dance performance. Introduces somatic practices which may include Yoga, Pilates, Bartenieff Fundamentals, Resistance Training, Foam Rolling, Franklin Imagery or other current conditioning practices which will support a dancer's training and overall health and fitness.
Introduces the fundamental somatic work of Joseph H. Pilates to improve posture and alignment using apparatus, mat, and supplemental techniques. Focuses on improving strength, and flexibility alignment using the Pilates principles of: Control, Centering, Coordination, Precision, Flow and Dynamics as they apply to human movement and performance.
Introduces and practices level II somatic work of Joseph H. Pilates for apparatus and mat. Develops further strength, and flexibility alignment using the Pilates principles: Control, Centering, Coordination, Precision, Flow and Dynamics as they apply to human movement and performance.
Presents level III somatic work of Joseph H. Pilates for apparatus and mat. Continues to develop strength and flexibility alignment using the Pilates principles. Introduces exercise modifications as a means for injury recuperation, strengthening and well-being.
Introduces the art and practice of improvisational dance. Focuses on movement generation through the study of time, space, shape, effort and body. Stimulates the discovery of the joy of movement and the entering into a free environment in which to explore the unique and creative language of physical expression.
Introduces the art and practice of improvisational dance. Focuses on movement generation through the study of time, space, shape, effort and body. Stimulates the discovery of the joy of movement and the entering into a free environment in which to explore the unique and creative language of physical expression. Honors work challenges students to be more analytical and creative through expanded assignments, real-world applications and enrichment opportunities.
Continues the development of improvisational techniques for performance and composition. Emphasizes solo performance skills in an improvisational setting.
Furthers the development of improvisational movement techniques focusing on performing with a partner or group in a contact improvisation or site specific context. Explores the use of the body, space, shape, effort and time as it relates to creating improvisational performances using weight sharing and support between people and objects.
Presents pedagogical principles and best practices for teaching dance as art in elementary education. Introduces the elements of dance, best practices, cultural, historical, and global considerations.
Presents principles and best practices for teaching dance in a variety of dance-focused contexts. Introduces the elements of dance, best practices, cultural, historical and global considerations. Focuses on frameworks for creative movement and methodology for dance technique classes, in both private and public sectors. Introduces developmentally appropriate and standards-based curriculum, and incorporates hands-on performing arts experiences.
Introduces beginning ballroom dance techniques through a focus on one or more ballroom dances. Includes history, music and fundamental practices of one or more of the following: cha-cha, salsa, waltz, fox trot, samba or tango.
Continues to develop techniques in ballroom dancing at the beginning level by reviewing basic steps and increasing styling techniques for the fox trot, swing, waltz, cha-cha, tango, rumba, samba, mambo, polka and selected novelty dances.
Continues to develop techniques in ballroom dancing at the intermediate level by reviewing basic steps and increasing styling techniques for the fox trot, swing, waltz, cha-cha, tango, rumba, samba, mambo, polka and selected novelty dances. Focuses on fluid sequencing through the basic steps and their variations while building strength and coordination for shared weight or supporting lifts.
Continues to develop techniques in ballroom dancing at the advanced level by reviewing basic steps and increasing styling techniques for the fox trot, swing, waltz, cha-cha, tango, rumba, samba, mambo, polka and selected novelty dances. Focuses on fluid sequencing through the basic steps and their variations with an emphasis on shared weight or supporting lifts.
Surveys dance practices around the world. Analyzes similarities and differences among dance practices in reference to geographical zones, societal structures and values, religious practices, historical events, and other related art practices within the culture.
Introduces students to the historical and cultural aspects of world dance through training and performance. Includes a survey of different world dance forms or an in-depth look at a selected world dance form. Facilitates students' cultural awareness and personal expression in a new art form.
Reviews American Swing Dance in the 20th century. Introduces movement theory, dance vocabulary, dance courtesy, fundamentals of music as they relate to dance, and dance history. Includes vintage or early vernacular dance forms as well as current trends.
Continues development of technical skills through the practice of ballet repertory. Emphasizes developing artistic expression in Romantic, Classical and Contemporary variations and pas de deux. Moorpark College Faculty has defined Ballet Technique as a family of courses which includes DANC M09A, M10A, M10B, M10C, M10D, and M40. A student may take a maximum of four (4) courses from a family.
Introduces the basic elements of dance production and performance: staging, lighting, publicity, make-up, costumes, set design and construction. Culminates in the application of knowledge through participation in a dance production or dance-related event.
Introduces the study of the dance industry. Focuses on best practices for navigating the business and industry aspects of a dance-related career and how to find and maintain gainful employment within the field.
Covers the specific demands of being a member of a large dance ensemble. Focuses on learning repertory choreographed by students, faculty, and guest artists through rehearsal and performance. Explores various styles and genres of dance. Culminates in a performance of the works learned in a formal concert environment.
Covers the specific demands of performing in a small- or medium-sized dance ensemble with greater performance responsibilities and attention to consistency of dance technique in performance. Focuses on learning repertory choreographed by students, faculty, and guest artists. Explores various styles and genres of artistic dance. Culminates in a performance of the works learned in a formal concert environment.
Covers the specific demands of performing in a small dance ensemble, duet or solo. Emphasizes increased technical demands including nuances in style as identified and explored through dance theory. Emphasizes performance style, increased physical demands, and more demanding rehearsal technique. Focuses on learning repertory choreographed by students, faculty, and guest artists through rehearsal and performance. Explores various styles and genres of artistic dance. Culminates in a performance of the works learned in a formal concert environment.
Covers the specific demands of performing a leadership role within a dance performance and ensemble. Focuses on leadership responsibilities including leading warm-up, acting as a choreographer or assistant choreographer, directing small practice sessions and assisting in the coaching of newer performers. Focuses on learning repertory choreographed by students, faculty, and guest artists through rehearsal and performance. Explores various styles and genres of artistic dance. Culminates in a performance of the works learned in a formal concert environment.
Emphasizes performance skills and techniques in preparation for non-athletic competitive environments where students can have their dance works adjudicated in intercollegiate events and conferences to promote excellence in choreography and/or performance. Provides opportunities for intermediate to advanced dance students to rehearse and present choreography in a multitude of performance venues on campus or in the community. Includes outreach activities, staging, site specific performances and touring. Requires participation in intercollegiate academic dance competitive events.
Introduces the best practices for competitive dance and cheer teams, collectively known as spirit squads. Offers skills development in dance and cheer performance techniques for participants of all levels. Includes choreographed cheer and dance routines performed regularly at Moorpark College athletic events, community outreach programs, and Moorpark College performing arts events.
Introduces the best practices for competitive dance and cheer teams, collectively known as spirit squads. Offers skills development in dance and cheer performance techniques for participants of all levels. Includes choreographed cheer and dance routines performed regularly at Moorpark College athletic events, community outreach programs, and Moorpark College performing arts events.
Continues the best practices for competitive dance and cheer teams, collectively known as spirit squads. Includes, during this second semester, skills that further develop movement and cheer performance techniques for participants of all levels. Includes choreographed cheer and dance routines performed regularly at Moorpark College athletic events, community outreach programs, and Moorpark College performing arts events.
Develops best practices in squad leadership for competitive dance and cheer teams, collectively known as spirit squads. Offers skills development in movement and cheer performance techniques for participants at an intermediate to advanced level. Includes, possibly, an invitation to choreograph routines to be performed at Moorpark College athletic events, community outreach programs, and Moorpark College performing arts events.
Continues development of best practices in squad leadership for competitive dance and cheer teams, collectively known as spirit squads. Offers skills development in movement and cheer performance technique for participants at an intermediate to advanced level. Includes, possibly, an invitation to choreograph routines to be performed at Moorpark College athletic events, community outreach programs, and Moorpark College performing arts events.
Provides on-the-job learning to develop effective work habits, attitudes, and career awareness in paid or unpaid internships that are related to the discipline. Involves the development and documentation of learning objectives and the completion of an internship paper, presentation, or project. Includes both workplace supervisor and faculty adviser feedback and/or written evaluations. Course Credit Limitation: To take this course, contact the Career Transfer Center. Requires orientation session. Students receive one unit of credit for each 60 hours unpaid or 75 hours paid work. May enroll in up to 4 units a semester with a maximum of 16 total units of any type of work experience.
Allows independent study for students who wish to extend their knowledge of a particular area of dance through research, study, practice or performance. Utilizes an approved independent project. Includes one-on-one work with instructor. Interested students should contact a Dance instructor for assistance in developing a contract for learning about a specific topic.