Towson Department of Dance: Course requirements for the Majors Program

Towson University Department of Dance

STUDENT HANDBOOK:

PREFACE ENTERING A UNIVERSITY AS A DANCE MAJOR: AN ADAPTED ADVISORY FROM NASD

This advice provided describes two things: first, an ideal set of knowledge and skills goals for college-level dance students; second, competencies needed by dancers as they practice the various aspects of the profession in college, and beyond. In brief, you should learn as much as you can as early as you can.

Take responsibility for your own development

Each dancer brings a unique set of talents, aspirations, and abilities to the dance profession. It is important to take increasing responsibility for developing your particular abilities toward your specific goals. Ultimately, you are responsible for choices about how you use your time to prepare for your future. For most dancers, that future involves dance at the center supported by many other capabilities.

Practice, practice, practice

Whatever you do or intend to do in dance; you must invest time in doing it. This applies not only to your technique, but also to other types of work in dance. For example, if you are interested in teaching, you should observe and gain teaching experiences under appropriate supervision. If you are interested in dance scholarship or criticism, you should engage in writing and speaking on dance topics. If choreography appeals, choreograph. No level of knowledge or skill that you can attain will be too high.

Perform alone and with others

Performance ability is essential for all dance professionals. You should be a competent performer in at least one dance area whether or not you intend to have a performance career. Ensemble experiences of all kinds should be sought. Work in large and small ensembles develops different kinds of dance skills. Fine ensemble work comes primarily through practice.

Master the basics

Be sure that you know the terminology, the fundamental gestures, and the major types of dance. Develop your musical understanding. Take every opportunity to study in music. Acquire the ability to read and follow musical notation and an introductory understanding of the musical works that accompany dance.

Learn to care for yourself

Your body and mind are your instruments. It is critical to take extremely good care of both. Learn about nutrition and exercise, how to prevent injury, and how to maintain healthy habits that will promote long-term health and fitness. Work closely with your physician, your parents, and your dance professors.

See as much dance as you can

You need to be familiar with far more dance than that which you perform. See as much dance from as many historical periods and cultural sources as possible. Ask your professors to recommend various repertories. Make sure that you have seen major works of all types in the particular area of dance that interests you. Seek more to learn the breadth and depth of the repertory than to enjoy what is already familiar.

Learn how dance works
Take opportunities to learn the basics of choreographic structure, including such areas as form, composition, and improvisation. Like so many other things in dance, this knowledge is developed throughout a lifetime. Those who are able to get started early have an advantage. Work with your dance teachers, take classes at your local college or professional studio school, or otherwise explore opportunities to gain initial acquaintance with this material.
Become a fluent, effective English speaker and writer
As a dancer, you will communicate in movement, but you will also rely heavily on your ability to communicate in words. Everything from rehearsals to teaching, to writing grant proposals, to negotiating, to promoting your professional interests relies on fluent English skills. Focus attention on learning to speak and write effectively.

Get a comprehensive education

The dance profession is big, but it is also part of a larger whole. Dance both influences and is influenced by the humanities, mathematics, the sciences, the social sciences, and the other arts-architecture, film, literature, music theatre, and the visual arts. Throughout college-level study, you are expected to gain a basic overview of ancient and modern history, the basic thought processes and procedures of math and science, and familiarity with works in as many of the other arts disciplines as possible. Most professionals who work with dance comprehensively develop a particular sensibility about the connections among dance history, and the other arts. Understanding the basics of math and the sciences support future work in dance technologies. Social studies are related to understanding the context for various dance endeavors.

Think of everything you study as helping you become a better dancer

The best dance professionals continue to learn throughout their lives. They are always studying and thinking, always connecting what they know about dance with their knowledge of other fields. Since you never know the direction your career will take, it is wise to spend your college years gaining the basic ability to understand and work in a variety of fields beyond dance. Keep dance at the center of your-efforts, but accept and enjoy the challenge of gaining the kind of knowledge and skills in other areas that will support both formal studies at the advanced level and your dance career beyond.

YOU, THE STUDENT

We believe in your talent and potential. You have been selected through an audition process, which involves approximately one hundred fifty eager and talented young artists annually. We, the faculty and staff of the Department of Dance, care about your development and have developed this handbook to address your potential academic, financial, and health needs. We’re here to support your active learning process in the healthiest and most profound way.

WHAT WE OFFER YOU
The faculty spent two years determining that assessment of the major is based on the following criteria. When you have questions about feedback, please take the time to look over the outcomes and assess your own progress towards them. Ask yourself if the feedback you are getting is in the best interest of progress towards these outcomes.

Mission Statement

The BFA program promotes excellence in the process of becoming a dance professional or pursuing graduate studies. The experience of moving is the most potent way of understanding dance in this program. Our dual emphasis in ballet and modern dance involves cognitive, affective, and physical ways of doing and knowing. The curriculum promotes dance as a primary human vehicle for communication and expression-unifying diverse populations and having innate cultural value. An active professional faculty provides intensive studio, production and theoretical exposure that supports dancing for a lifetime.
Statement of Purpose
All of the following occur within the context of a comprehensive metropolitan liberal arts-based university.
A BFA graduate will:

1. understand a variety of approaches and applications for the study of dance.

2. understand the physical nature of learning experiences in the discipline of dance.

3. have the ability to express himself/herself clearly in movement.

4. understand the relevance of movement experience/dance to development of self in a world or cultural context

5. develop experientially creative and critical thinking skills.

6. possess a general knowledge of dance literature including written texts and repertory.

7. acquire professional attitudes and behaviors.

8. be prepared to pursue graduate or other professional study in dance.

9. have the ability to communicate about dance.

10. recognize the potential for interactions between dance and other disciplines

Student Outcomes (listed in order of priority)

Students graduating from the Department of Dance with a BFA degree will be able to:1. perform in a technique class at an advanced/professional level in either ballet or modern technique (or both).2. demonstrate knowledge of the human body, its healthy application, and how it functions expressively in space.3. conceptualize, organize and present their creative endeavors.4. apply for most MFA dance programs without additional work required.5. demonstrate behavioral understanding of the relationship between rights and responsibilities within the classroom, rehearsal, and all other aspects of the profession.6. present a personal perspective on a variety of dance-related issues and an awareness of personal style.7. articulate personal values of dance as it is a context for human experience (learning, communicating, personal and cultural identification).8. demonstrate an understanding of the impact that theatrical, technical, musical, and alternative arts have on the creation and performance of dance.9. communicate effectively about the field of dance orally and in writing.10. articulate trends and styles in 20th century dance and influences of pre-20th century dance within a multi-cultural context.11. apply for graduate studies in dance without additional coursework required.
ADVISING POLICY - CLASS PLACEMENT
All dance majors are assigned an advisor from the full time faculty. He/she will facilitate your progress through the academic program. ALL INCOMING FRESHMEN MUST MEET WITH SUSAN MANN AND ALL TRANSFER STUDENTS MUST MEET WITH THE CHAIRPERSON AT THE BEGINNING OF THEIR FIRST SEMESTER TO ESTABLISH A STUDENT FILE. Each major is to meet with his/her advisor a minimum of once each semester prior to registration for the following semester. Placement is determined by faculty and reflects a students demonstration of sound movement practice in the cognitive, affective, and physical domains as described on page of this handbook. Technical level placements for ballet and modern classes are evaluated each semester. See your advisor before registering each semester to obtain this information. Arrange your other classes around those courses before you come in for advising. The advisor will approve your course schedule and provide you with any necessary special permits, etc. Be sure to have your course schedule filled out, including alternate coursework for all non-major courses when you walk in for your appointment.It is to your benefit to establish a rapport with your advisor. He/she is available to discuss a variety of dance related topics regarding your academic progress, course loads, careers, financial aide, etc. Your advisor is a resource available exclusively to you.

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
Appearance:

Clothing should not obscure the line of the body.
Hair should be appropriately secured.
All loose and dangling jewelry should be removed.
Appropriate footwear is required.
The choreographer directs entire physical appearance in performance including hair, make-up, jewelry, and other body art.

Etiquette
Classroom:

Students are to be appropriately dressed and ready to dance on time.
It is the student’s responsibility to prepare themselves cognitively, affectively, and physically to healthfully engage in movement.
If not attending a class directly prior, students should be in the studio, warming-up, 10-15 minutes in advance.
No food, specifically gum or drink is permitted in the studios.
Students are expected to remain in class throughout the assigned time. It is the student’s responsibility to take care of their personal hygiene, appearance, and safety needs prior to class. Students should remain focused cognitively, affectively, and physically on the class. Students are expected to retain, integrate and synthesize class material throughout the semester.

Rehearsal:

All of the criteria stated above in Classroom Etiquette. It is the responsibility of the student to stay abreast of scheduling, expectations, and requirements.
Performers should seek dismissal from the director prior to leaving the theatre. Performance All of the criteria stated above in Classroom Etiquette and Rehearsal Etiquette. The student will incur the cost for replacement or repair of lost or damaged props, costumes, or other materials related to performance. It is serious breach of etiquette to miss a performance call and/or arrive unprepared. It is an equal breach of etiquette to appear in the audience without the director’s permission; or leave the backstage area wearing performance make-up or costuming. Dancers are expected to be involved in all scheduled warm-ups and should seek permission from the director any other arrangement. Care of the costumes, props and other related material will be determined by the director and adhered to by the performer.

THEATRE PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
PERFORMANCE AND CREW
HIERARCHY OF AUTHORITY IN THE THEATRE

§Technical Director is the ultimate authority and the person responsible for the safety of every person in the theatre – performers, crew, audience members, staff, etc. Any direction given by a Technical Director needs to be instantly followed.
§Stage Manager and Technical Director have the authority on procedures for set up & strike.
§Stage Manager has the authority & responsibility for directing action on stage.
§Company Director defers authority to Stage Manager in the theatre.

§Lighting Designer may also be present and interfacing with company members by pointing out “missing marks” that focus light on soloists. Direction from the Lighting Designer will usually come through the Stage Manager

§Crew should be regarded as an extension of the stage manager, who will relay instructions through them during the run of the show.

THEATRE ETIQUETTE: PERFORMERS AND CREW MEMBERS

§Arrive on time and prepared for technical rehearsal or performance. It is a serious breach of etiquette to miss a crew or performance call and/or arrive unprepared.

§Always enter the theatre space in the back of the building, not through the lobby or audience area of the theatre.

§Be in the appropriate place at all times (basement or backstage).

§Be quiet. Be prepared to hear all announcements and follow all directives. Remember that your voice, even a whisper, carries far in the theatre environment.

§You are responsible for all costume items and props assigned to you.

§During performance, always enter and exit through the stage doors (not the audience).

§No food or drink allowed in the audience or stage areas.

§Cell phones in the theatre must be turned off.

§Remember to protect all valuables by using a lock or leaving them at home. The theatre is not responsible for valuables.

§Leave all pre-set objects in place. Do not place any objects backstage that are not approved.

§Do not touch any equipment unless directed to do so.

§Avoid contact with wings, lighting equipment, cyclorama, etc. Always pass upstage as possible from the cyclorama

§Report all technical problems or malfunctions to the Stage Manager immediately.

§Be prepared for the schedule not to run promptly, so plan accordingly.

§Be prepared to participate in the strike of the concert at the end of the run.

§Do not leave until dismissed by the appropriate person.

PERFORMANCE: TECHNICAL, DRESS AND CURTAIN
§Call is usually 90 minutes before starting time.
§Remove all jewelry and fingernail polish (unless used as a costume piece designated by the choreographer or company director).

§Have all necessary equipment ready such as extra performance shoes, first aid, repair kit (needle & thread), appropriate attire, and make up with you for all technical rehearsals.

§Take responsibility and follow the technical schedule by being in the appropriate place five minutes before time. If there is a question concerning the technical schedule, seek your answer before being late.

§Keep wings clear unless you are about to make an entrance. Do not discard/leave warm-ups in the aisles between lights.

§For all technical rehearsals, costumes and make-up must be worn for lighting design, and problem-solving purposes. Please apply make-up before costume when possible.

§You are responsible for the maintenance and repair of your costume or for notifying the person who is. Costumes should be carefully hung up after use.

§Performers may incur the cost for replacement or repair of lost or damaged props, costumes, or other materials related to performance.

§Warm-up before all technical rehearsals. Be prepared to stay warm and expect the theatre space to be cool.

§Be very careful of all props, sets, curtains, drapes & lighting equipment by leaving them alone unless otherwise directed. Keep your safety in mind as well as the safety of others.

§Communicate all issues concerning music level, glow tape, extra to crew or the Stage Manager at the appropriate time and not in the middle of a run-through.

§Be prepared for receiving any technical notes at any time.

§It is considered a breach of etiquette to appear in the audience without the Director’s permission; or leave the backstage area wearing performance make-up or costuming unless otherwise directed to do so.

§Remove make-up and costumes immediately after rehearsal or performance.

§Do not move on stage when curtain closes until it is completely closed.

§Do not leave until Company Director dismisses the company.

CREW

ØCrewing a concert is the equivalent to a 40-hour work- week. Be prepared for this time commitment prior to the concert week. You will need to register for DANC 216 or 316 and will need to be in the theatre space for the entire duration of technical rehearsals and performances related to the specific concert occurring over the time span of one week or longer.

Call is usually two hours before starting time.
Expect to be present during hang and focus of lights, all technical rehearsals and every performance.
Document your presence in the theatre or performance space through a Crew Log Book or by personal documentation.
Notify the Technical Director and Stage Manager of your presence. Then follow their guidance.
Types of crew responsibilities:
qPlacement and/or removal of floor
qHang & focus of lights

qChanging of gels

qCleaning: sweeping, mopping, extra

qCostume changing & repairing

qLighting Operator

qSound Operator

qStrike

§Do not leave until Technical Director or Stage Manger dismisses the crew.

HEALTH POLICY
In the interest of maintaining the highest level of physical and mental health, the Department of Dance adheres to the following policy:
"Requirements for dance classes cannot be significantly modified for students with physical conditions such as chronic injury conditions, recent surgeries, or cardio-pulmonary deficiencies. Any such conditions must be so noted to the instructor and/or doctor's clearance submitted in writing for the class to the instructor. Students with other handicapping conditions such as vision, hearing, psychomotor, or learning disabilities must be registered with the University’s Disability Support Services Office, Rooms 232-233, Administration Building, extension 42638, for special consideration within the guidelines and requirementts of the American with Disabilities Act. Every effort is made by the Dance Department to accommodate a diverse student population, however, the act of dancing is physically and mentally challenging and progress is expected and required."

In the event health problems become an issue, the student shall:

(1) Receive a complete physical examination performed by a physician. The student shall permit the physician to advise the Dance Department about his/her physical condition as it relates to the student's ability to participate in dance classes. If the physician determines that the student should not participate in physical activity, the Dance Department will not allow the student to participate until advised otherwise in writing by the physician.

(2) If the physician determines that the student requires psychological counseling relating to his/her physical condition, the student shall obtain individual counseling, as recommended. The Department will monitor the student's participation and counseling with the consent of the student and the counselor. Participation in dance classes will depend upon the student's commitment to pursue therapy.

(3) Should a student be required to receive a physical examination or psychological counseling, he/she shall do so at his/her expense.

DISABILITY DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENT

Dance is a psychophysical activity that inherently involves both physical and mental components; accordingly, satisfactory performance in Dance requires that students demonstrate their knowledge and progress both physically and psychologically and often in group environments. If you have a physical, learning, developmental or psychological disability that may affect your ability satisfactorily to perform the fundamental requirements of a dance course, please inform both the faculty member and the University’s Disability Support Services Office, Rooms 232-233, Administration Building, extension 42638. Early notification is necessary to timely assess whether accommodation is necessary and, if so, whether a reasonable accommodation can be made. It is your responsibility to timely disclose any disability and to make a request for reasonable accommodation. Should you have any questions, about disclosure, please ask that faculty member or make an appointment with the Disability Support Services.

THE COUNSELING CENTER
The Counseling Center is available to students who are experiencing stress, anxiety, or emotional discomfort, which is interfering with their ability to function normally on a daily basis. Licensed counselors and therapists are available to discuss your concerns and offer guidance and advice that can address your needs. This service is free to full-time TU students and is located in Glen Esk. While walk-ins are accepted, the telephone number is 410/704-2512.
FINANCIAL AID
A variety of financial aid options are available to you as a TU student. These include: University Scholarships, College of Fine Arts and Communication Dean’s Scholarships, Department of Dance Scholarships, Work Study Programs, Pell Grants, Stafford Loans, Supplemental Loans, and Perkins Loans. With the exception of some university scholarships, those from the Department of Dance, and the Supplemental Loans, eligibility is based on financial need. Contact the Financial Aid office on campus located in the Administration Building for more information. The telephone number is 410/704-4236. For department scholarships, high school and transfer students must attend one of the departmental auditions. Other students should petition the faculty consideration in the scholarship awards process.
DEPARTMENT OF DANCE SCHOLARSHIP RENEWAL CRITERIA:
1.) An overall QPA of 2.75 and a QPA of 3.0 in the major. Students who’s QPA falls below this minimum requirement will be given one semester to improve their QPA. Failure to do so will result in the loss of all scholarships.

2.) Perform a minimum of once per year in a formal concert series produced by the Department of Dance (currently the Towson University Dance Company).

3.) Demonstrate and exemplify a behavioral understanding of the relationship between rights and responsibilities within the classroom, rehearsal, and all other aspects of the profession – as outlined in the Professional Standards section of the Towson University Department of Dance Student Handbook.

4.) Annual scholarship renewal evaluation by the Department of Dance Faculty.

The Margaret Duke Chambers Scholarship is available to any full-time student with a GPA of 3.0 or better. Monies are awarded for the spring semester and applications are due October 30th of each year.
MAHPERD also offers a junior scholarship in the amount of $1000. The scholarship is based on educational and community service actives, and is awarded for the senior year to a student MAHPERD member.

Additional financial aid information can be received from The Student Guide to Financial Aid from the U.S. Department of Education: Grants, Loans, and Work-Study - published by the U.S. Department of Education. This may be available from the TU Financial Aid Office.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Towson offers a variety of Greek social organizations. The Student Government Association is located in the University Union, Room 226. The Department of Dance contains a beta chapter of the national dance honorary, Sigma Rho Delta. The honorary is very active in our department. Information about membership is posted within the department and we encourage you to consider joining.
TROUBLESHOOTING
While it is our hope that each and every dance major advances through the academic program smoothly and productively, there are times when the occassional conflict, obstacle, and misunderstanding occurs. When this happens, you, the student, should try to resolve the issue immediately with the party involved, i.e., the instructor, student, etc. In most circumstances, issues can be resolved through honest communication. Should a resolution not be achieved to your satisfaction, the next step would be to address the issue with the party's immediate supervisor, i.e., faculty advisor, department chair, etc. Only after these avenues have been exhausted is it appropriate to seek the advice of college and university administration. The Department of Dance maintains an open door policy whereby the entire faculty is interested in your needs and concerns. It is our interest to facilitate strong avenues of communication and interaction between students and ourselves.

THE PROGRAM

I. Remaining in Good Standing

A. Required QPA (Quality Point Average) to remain in good standing is:

1. Performance Majors: C or above in all dance courses: 2.0 overall.

2. Performance and Education majors: 2.75 in major courses; 2.5 overall.

3. Scholarship students: 2.75 in major courses; 2.0 overall.

B. Probation

Students on probation receive written notification of what is needed

to lift departmental probation along with a deadline (usually a semester

or, particularly for freshmen admitted on probation, a year). When the

deadline is reached, the department will meet and send written notification

back to the student either that the probation has been lifted, that it will

continue (along with the revised adjustments necessary), or that the student

needs to change majors.

C. Jury

All dance majors will perform at a jury before faculty members before the

end of the spring semester of the sophomore year. The jury consists of
a video portfolio of selections from the audition, movement exams and

performances of each student. In addition, each student will perform a

combination of movement material at the time of the jury. Written and oral

feedback will be given to each student, and progress toward the expected

student outcomes for the B.F.A. degree will be assessed. This procedure

is designed as a mechanism for assessing progress toward the degree. Should

a major be assessed to be in difficulty from a technical or academic standpoint

at this time, advising into an alternate major may occur.

To develop the portfolio, students are expected to do the following:

1. During your first semester here, purchase a blank 1/2" VHS videotape. Label this with your name and the date you auditioned. Give this blank tape to the Library Representative who will copy your modern and ballet exercises d your solo onto the cassette you purchased.

2. For both your first and second years of work, check out from the Library

Representative at least one practicum videotape in ballet and one in modern, along with any other materials (compositions? other practicums?) you would like included in you portfolio. Copy these selected practica onto your portfolio tape.

3. Be prepared to show your portfolio to the faculty along with any appropriate written materials by the first of April during your sophomore year. The faculty will review all portfolios as part of the jury process and inform you about acceptance/rejection for the final 2 years of the dance program.

D. Crews

Each dance major is required to complete one crew assignment per year in the sophomore and junior years and must register in and pass course DANC 216 during the sophomore year and DANC 316 during the junior year. The crew assignment in the sophomore year will be in connection with an informal performance, and the crew assignment in the junior year will be in connection with a formal/main stage performance. Crew assignments will be determined at the beginning of the academic year. Successful completion of both crews is a requirement for graduation and the B.F.A. in Dance Performance.

E. Health/Injury Issues

Occasionally, a dancer experiences an injury so profound or a health problem so

pervasive that it interferes with his/her ability to realistically pursue the

major in dance. (See the health policy on page 4.) In either of these situations,

the student will be informed of the effect the illness/injury is having on progress
through the program, and either put on probation until the problem is resolved or

advised to leave the major.

II. Where do you go and what do you need when you get there?

A. TO ADD OR DROP A COURSE (during the first week of each semester) you:

1. Pick up an add/drop form from an instructor, the department office,

or the Administration Building.

2. Fill out the form and get instructor's signature. Any instructor can

sign a drop, but only your course instructor can sign an add form.

3. Get a department seat code (if required) and department stamp from the Dance office.

4. Take the form to the Administration Building.

Use the same form to audit a course -- audits may only be processed as adds {no pre-registration}. Any course in the Dance Department may be audited with the instructor's permission. Audits will not count as part of the semester's load and will not count towards graduation.

B. FOR ADVISING -- [pre-register in November or April]

1. You will receive a letter telling you to go to the Administration Building on a

certain date to register. DON'T WAIT FOR THAT DATE -- go to the

Administration Building or Dance Office right away to pick up your catalog and the included course schedule form.

2. Make an appointment with your advisor (don't wait for him/her to find you).

3. Look over your copy of your dance major course outline, and work out your non-major classes around the level placements before you come in for advising.

The advisor will approve your course schedule and provide you with any necessary special permits, etc. Be sure to have your course schedule filled out, including alternate coursework for all non-major courses when you walk in for your appointment. Remember to reserve 3 spaces for academic coursework, and to check your matrix to see how much longer it will be before you graduate if you take the courses you have listed.

4. Think about your questions [career opportunities, performance options, etc.] before your advising appointment, and be ready to discuss them.
5. Keep your advising appointment, choose your classes, get your Seat codes as required, pick up the special permission slips you need so you can register online or in person or use the telephone registration network .

6. To change your major, choose your new department and contact the Department Chair about getting a new advisor. Do this before you drop your old major [some departments are already full and cannot accept new majors throughout the year.]

Remember that you must maintain a GPA of 2.75 in the performance and education major and a cumulative GPA of 2.5 in your non-major courses {2.0 for performance majors}.

C. TO PRACTICE FOR WHATEVER:

1. Check the posted studio hours to see when studios are open for student
rehearsals.

2. The Lida Lee Tall gymnasium and auditorium are also available for rehearsals at various times. Get a studio reservation form in the dance office and fill it out with the times and dates you would like to reserve the room. Then give your reservation form to Maria. You will receive an email confirmation if space is available.

When in doubt, ask your advisor or your instructor or the department chair.

III. How do you fit in this program?

A. First, you are in a program with dual emphasis on ballet and modern, and with

many other courses in composition, jazz, tap, pointe, etc. Please pay attention to

your progress through the general education program as well

B. Second, particularly if you are an education major -- many of the courses inside

and outside our department must be taken in a specific order, and some are only

offered every other year. Be sure that you are getting through your requirements in

the necessary order.

C. You are in a program with faculty still actively involved with creating and performing themselves. This is a physically and emotionally demanding environment.

Please show up healthy and ready to retain your sense of humor!
D. This program supports your unique potential. The members of our performing groups are not chosen by body type. Be prepared to strive to achieve standards of excellence -- and expect the full support of the faculty in your quest.

E. You are in a program actively involved in collaborative education with other area university programs. Take advantage of the library facilities, classroom activities and performance venues available to you both on and off campus!

F. You are in a program actively involved in an ongoing assessment process. Be prepared to contribute to assessment activities -- your own self-assessment; as well as, those activities included in organized coursework. In addition, be prepared to participate in a department assessment during the spring semester of your sophomore year.

IV. How does our program fit into the university?

A. Graduates from the Department of Dance receive a B.F.A. in Dance Performance or a B.F.A. in Dance Performance and Education, rather than the B.A. offered by many other universities in the State of Maryland. As a result, you will be required to participate in performance activities and intensive studio experiences in order to receive your degree.

B. The Department of Dance is one of 6 departments in the College of Fine Arts and Communication. There are five other colleges on campus -- two departments from one of these colleges are housed here with us in Burdick (Health Sciences and Nursing).

C. The Department of Dance follows the University transfer and pass/fail policies.

The maximum number of credits allowed to transfer from a two-year institution is 64, and from a four-year institution is 90. See page 23 of the current catalogue for transfer details.

Students may take up to eight credits per semester and a total of 12 credits in their academic careers under the pass/D/F option. Students cannot take courses applicable toward their majors, minors, or teacher certification. Although a "D" is passing for most General Education Requirements only an "A", "B", and "C" are passing for a pass/fail class or for any class taken to fulfill your major requirements.

V. How does Towson University fit into the Maryland environment?

A. This is "a comprehensive liberal arts-based" institution. That means we are focused on providing to you a general, broad-based education in addition to good technical training in dance. So that you have a variety of job options when you graduate plan ahead. Take any master classes you can find and always network. Go to the Towson University library and look at the dance repertory to help make decisions about your future career. Go to summer and/or winter workshops and contact people who may offer

have job opportunities for you after you graduate. Don't forget to talk with your advisor and other faculty as a resource for additional job opportunities. TAKE THE INITIATIVE AND ACTIVELY PLAN YOUR FUTURE!

B. Towson University's Dance Department program is identified in the nation and Maryland for its excellence and varied curriculum. We offer tap, jazz and pointe classes as well as ballet and modern dance classes. This means that most auditions and performances reflect this curriculum and provides our students the opportunity to develop excellent and wide ranging performance abilities.

C. As a graduate, you may be interested in joining the department's "Friends of Dance". The Friends of Dance is a support organization dedicated to enhancing the educational mission for our dance majors through fundraising and departmental service efforts, as well as staying in touch with TU dance alumni and special supporters. If you are interested in contributing your special skills, please join and stay in touch with your department!

THE INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE

This program is an ongoing Dance Department event. The guidelines for dance majors are listed below:

A. At least one year prior to the exchange, the student should write a letter of intent addressed to the dance faculty in care of the Dance Department Chair. The letter will state why the student wants to participate and at what institution the student wants to study.

B. The students must have experience in the native language of the country where the study is to take place (at least one semester of language study or its equivalent).

C. As a good-will ambassador representing Towson University abroad, students must have a GPA of at least 2.75 and a GPA of 3.0 in dance courses in order to participate in the exchange program.

D. Once recommended, the student will work with the Office of International Education in preparing, planning and implementing the exchange. The exchange will take place when the student is within three semesters of graduation from Towson University with a dance degree.

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

I. THE AMERICAN COLLEGE DANCE FESTIVAL (ACDF):
A. Only ACDF Institutional Members in good standing (annual dues paid) are eligible for adjudication. (Our department pays these dues.)

B. You will also need to register yourself under our institutional membership in order to attend the festival. ACDF is a chance to perform, take master classes, view concerts, get feedback -- and to gain perspective on where you (and TU) stand among other dancers and dance programs on the east coast. Scholarships are available, and at least one professional company (with opportunities to offer...) is usually in residence.

C. TU is allowed to present one or two pieces for adjudication (to receive feedback from a national panel). From all adjudicated works, a small number will be selected to be performed on the "gala" program. If two pieces are submitted, one must be choreographed by a student. Only students may perform in adjudicated works, although a faculty concert is usually included in the festival activities. An informal concert is also provided for students/faculty who do not wish to have their work adjudicated.

II. THE DANCE MAJORS' PERFORMANCE PROJECT is a program choreographed and performed by TU dance majors (and invited performers). Choreographers must have completed Dance Composition II, and dance majors establish guidelines, organize rehearsals, provide technical support, etc.

III. PERFORMANCE COURSES (One of these courses is required for all dance majors.)

A. The TU Dance Company is a 3 credit course with credit received during the spring semester each year (for both the fall and spring semester of work). The company rehearses between 6 and 9 PM Monday through Thursday plus selected weekends, and performs special matinees as well as a formal concert series in Stephens Hall. Guest artists are usually involved with the company's activities -- so leave some space on your calendar for weekend and evening rehearsals. By audition only.

B. Ballet and Modern Repertory are offered on a regular university matrix

(MWF for 50 minutes or TR for 1 hour 15 minutes). The courses result in a
performance activity, either off-campus or as part of the Dance Company performance series, a choreographers' showcase, or something similar.

V. COMPOSITION III AND IV: All dance majors must be credited with 12 performance credits from these classes. Two of these credits may be earned by performing in a piece presented in the Dance Majors' Performance Project.

VI. SENIOR PROJECT: CONCERT/LECTURE DEMONSTRATION: All seniors will enroll in the fall Practicum section of the course, which goes through the planning necessary to present the culminating spring activity. During the spring, performance majors will rehearse and present the CONCERT section of the coursework as performance and education majors create and present the LECTURE DEMONSTRATION section of the course. All seniors will perform, but other students may also appear in these activities.
VII. THE FACULTY/ALUMNI CONCERT was first presented in the spring of 1993, and is designed to strengthen the relationship between the department and its graduates. Be sure to keep us up-to-date on your address after you graduate if you are interested in returning to perform on the Alumni Concert.

VIII. OTHER AREA DANCE ACTIVITIES (Doug Hamby Dance, Goucher, Kinetics, Stephanie Powell DanseEnsemble, Surge, Peabody, The Moving Company, Maryland Arts Festival, etc.): You are welcome and advised to participate in them and/or audition for their concerts. Just remember to be reasonable and not overextend yourself. You must receive permission in advance from either your Towson University director, instructor, and/or student choreographer before committing your time to outside activities.

VIDEO AND AUDIO COPYRIGHTS -- anything taped off the air can be used within 45 days of the broadcast, after which it must be destroyed. Otherwise you must get permission to show the tapes. For audio tapes, you must have permission from the composer, the performing artists, and the record label in order to use the music without a copyright violation.

MAINTENANCE AND HOUSEKEEPING

Our facilities are only as good as our continuous care of them -- so please take an active stance in support of your rehearsal/ performance space. No food or drink should be consumed or taken into the dance rehearsal or performance spaces (spilled soft drinks really do a number on dance floors!). Use the lounge for your relaxation and snack activities. Let your instructor or Maria DeMeo know if floor surfaces seem too slippery or have too much traction so that something can be done to address the problem. Keep our dance lounge comfortable and useable by throwing trash in the appropriate container and making sure you take all of your belongings with you when leaving the space. Let the faculty know if you have suggestions about improving the maintenance procedures for the department.

Only the Towson University Dance Faculty may reserve and use the Department's video cameras/monitors/sound equipment. Students are required to utilize their own personal video and sound equipment for student rehearsals of composition assignments. Please call, email, or leave Maria DeMeo a note in the dance office if you see the red light near the piano blinking in Lida Lee Tall Auditorium or Gym, so she will know the pianos need "watering" again. Please make sure that the portable barres are resting on a level surface after you move them, and do not stand, sit, etc. on the permanent ballet barres attached to the walls.
SAFETY and SECURITY

The Department recommends that students obtain a locker in Burdick Hall. Lockers are free to students and located in the "men's/women's" locker rooms. See the locker room attend to be assigned a locker. NEVER leave your valuables unattended. ALWAYS keep your dance bag and valuables in the same room with you in clear sight to prevent possible theft.

If you believe that something has been lost or stolen, contact Towson University Police at 410/704-2133. Should the loss occur in the Department of Dance notify the Dance Office immediately so that we made provide you every assistance.
EMERGENCY CAREIf a someone is injured and the skin is broken, do not touch the wound with your bare hands. Plastic gloves located in the sound cabinets in each studio are to be used if necessary.With most of the injuries that happen in class, ICE is the thing to reach for. There is an ice machine in the Dance Office. Elevate the injury if swelling occurs, and stay off it as much as possible for about two weeks. If the pain persists, make an appointment to see an appropriate professional (please consult the Dance Office for a list of specialists).For normal muscle aches and pains, use a heating pad, a hot bath, and approved medical remedies for pain. Remember that rest and the proper diet are more important when your body is under unusual stress.Dr. Lew Schon is one of our recommended orthopedists. His number is 410/554-2891, and he runs a clinic for dancers and will work with your insurance carrier.

MENTORS

If you wish, an upperclass dance major can be assigned to be your mentor. There are several dance majors who are interested in being there for you should you have questions, anxieties, uncertainties, or concerns. If you are a freshman or transfer student and are interested in having a mentor, see Maria DeMeo in the office and let her know you are looking for someone. She can facilitate this process.

IN CLOSING, we welcome you and hope this booklet helps answer some of your questions. Don't forget that everyone before you and everyone after you needs help at some time. No successful person ever makes it without help! So, when in doubt, ASK. WE ARE HERE TO GUIDE, AND MENTOR YOU
Faculty and Staff

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