B.A. or B.S. degree in Theatre with a Dance Concentration
The goal of the KSU Dance Program is to provide professional studio training in partnership with the rich foundation of a liberal arts curriculum. We seek to produce creative problem solvers with strong analytical and critical thinking skills and the ability to speak and write effectively about dance as it relates to all areas of the curriculum. The KSU dance graduate is expected to demonstrate a breadth of knowledge about dance as it relates to society and culture, as well as in his or her career option. These include fields in performance, choreography, teaching, business, technical production, and dance therapy. Dance scholarships are available and are awarded each spring based on an audition and interview. A minor in dance (18 hours) is also available for those who would like to add dance as a minor to their degree program in another field.
The American College Dance Festival Association has recognized the KSU Dance Program several times for excellence in performance and choreography. The faculty remains active in creative and scholarly work on campus, and off campus in the United States and abroad. Alumni have performed and choreographed throughout the United States, as well as pursued careers in dance related areas. KSU dance students are encouraged to be in involved in the performing/choreography areas early in their academic careers, continuing their artistic development both in class and in independent studies. The Dance Program provides students with a challenging and rewarding blend of technical, creative, and historical training in classical ballet, modern, jazz, tap, and musical theater dance. Performance opportunities include the WinterDance and SpringDance concerts, main stage musicals, informal student showings, and lecture-demonstrations on and off campus.
K-State’s main campus is located in Manhattan, a community of nearly 40,000, just two hours west of Kansas City. Manhattan’s major business districts include the Manhattan Town Center Mall and adjacent downtown shops; the Westloop shopping center; and Aggieville, a shopping, restaurant, and nightlife district near campus. The Manhattan Arts Center, Sunset Zoo, and a lively arts-in-the-park program provide entertainment throughout the year. Performances at K-State’s own McCain Auditorium include world—class artists such as Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, the Mark Morris Dance Group, Tap Dogs, and touring musicals such as Guys and Dolls, Chicago, and Anything Goes.
