Dance (DANC)

DANC-100 is the course number for dance ensembles in Performing Arts offered for one credit. Individual companies are associated with separate section numbers.

See below for descriptions.

People dance for many reasons- to flirt, let loose, get exercise, express themselves, build community, tell story, and sometimes simply to defy any reason at all. In this course we explore and experience dance’s relationship to conflict. We investigate and imitate how it is used to train and prepare for fighting, to avoid or replace fighting, to sublimate conflict and rage, and to tell the story of what went down when conflict does take place. How is dance used as a tool in relation to violence, whether it be to prepare for it, survive it, or heal from it. This is a studio course including reading, writing, workshops, and performance. Excellent course for students interested in Conflict Resolution, Psychology, Culture and Politics, and kinesthetic learning.

In this studio class we will investigate the many modes of movement that bring us together as humans across linguistic, cultural, generational, and national borders. We explore the concept of the body as a culture-bearer and its movement as a mode of connection with the otherwise "other." Through character studies, partner exercises, nonverbal conversations, and dances from around the world, students will practice empathy through embodiment and learn to use it as a tool in everything from psychology to diplomacy. The class will introduce character archetypes from Commedia to Kuttiyattam with the intent of deepening an understanding of our humanity, both shared and varied. We will study techniques to foster empathy and understanding as well as develop our own. As part of this class, students may have the opportunity to participate in the Resonant Bodies project to be presented at The Gathering, an international convening of artists and activists from around the world at Georgetown May 4-8, 2022. (This is an excellent complimentary course to studies in peace, restorative justice, international politics, and cross cultural relations.)

The Body in Global Politics: Move, Moving, Movement A joint class for Georgetown Dance, Theater and Performance Studies, and The Lab for Global Performance and Politics What does your body language say about where you come from, what you think, how you feel? How can you use your body to make change from the podium, on screen, or on the frontline? How does individual movement relate to and impact global movements both social and political? This class includes discussion and studio work. We will study individuals and organizations who put their bodies on the line, who use the most potent global language we have: the language of the body, of gesture and space, to make change, forge unlikely connections, and build bridges for peace. Participants will learn to embody their own ideals and goals, stepping off of the page, and into themselves. This is a cross disciplinary course for movers and non-movers alike.