HSJA Dance  + MYP Dance

Dance for seventh and eighth-grade students provides a foundation of dance technique, alignment, with some select history and language of dance terminology.  Students become acquainted with basic technique in ballet and jazz, as well as anatomical awareness that is pervasive throughout their lives.  Gaining movement skills and finding confidence and enjoyment through movement are a focus of this class. No previous dance experience is necessary. This one-semester course which may be used for a Fine Art credit.

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Dance I 

Dance I provides a foundation of dance technique, alignment, history, and language of dance terminology.  Students become acquainted with basic technique in ballet, modern, and jazz, as well as anatomical awareness that is pervasive throughout their lives.  Gaining movement skills and finding confidence and enjoyment through movement are a focus of this class. No previous dance experience is necessary. This year-long course may be used for a Fine Art credit. 

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Dance II 

Dance II continues to build on the foundation of dance technique, alignment, and the language of dance terminology.  Students study ballet, modern, and jazz, as well as the foundational work in choreography and composition. Experiencing different choreographic principles and processes are a focus of this class, as well as studying masterworks. This year-long course may be used for a Fine Art credit and requires Dance I as a prerequisite. 

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Dance III/IV 

Dance III/IV  continues to build on the foundation of dance technique but focuses on student choreography projects from various stimuli including spoken word, text, artwork, emotions, and stories. Experiencing different choreographic principles and processes are a focus of this class, as well as studying masterworks.  This year-long course may be used for a Fine Art credit and requires Dance I and II as a prerequisite. With the completion of Dance III, students will receive completer cords for graduation.

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IB Dance 

This course focuses on the composition, performance, and analysis of dance, or “expressive movement,” which is practiced amongst peoples of various backgrounds, and for a variety of purposes, throughout the world. Dance I and II are a pre-requisite at HSSD. 

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Dance Troupe (Student Company) 

 (BY AUDITION ONLY) The Hot Springs Dance Troupe is the student performing company, which develops professional approaches to class, rehearsals, and performances. Dancers are exposed to a variety of styles, choreographers, repertoire and music including ballet, modern, tap, jazz, contemporary, and clog.  The exploration of the process and essence of the art form helps students develop technical skills, artistry and a broader scope of life as citizens-artists-athletes in a global community. Performances offer a great opportunity and exposure for students to experience what it is like to be part of major productions, working alongside technical and production crew, musicians and other dancers. The creative process drives this company to produce works that speak to audiences as a form of voice, artistic and athletic expression.

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