Sacred Heart University Dance Programs

WELCOME TO SACRED HEART UNIVERSITY DANCE PROGRAMS!
We offer a variety of programs to suit any level of interest, commitment and passion for dance. All of our dance programs allow students the opportunity to perform and several of these performances are held throughout the year in our beautiful Edgerton Theatre. The aim of these programs is to offer students another avenue to having an enriching experience; educationally, artistically and/or recreationally, while attending SHU.

Below, please find a list of the programs currently being offered as well as a brief description of each.

Dance Company: The Dance Company at Sacred Heart University is a Pre-Professional performance company. Interested students should have a minimum of three years of studio training and be proficient in at least two disciplines of dance. Students participate in classes and choreography sessions with master faculty, guest choreographers and artists in residence. Students may earn up to one credit per semester for participation in this program as well as have many opportunities perform in staged productions throughout the year. Dance Company students train and perform in ballet, modern, contemporary and world dance forms, jazz and tap dance. *Audition Required*

Dance Ensemble: The Dance Ensemble is a student-run, zero credit program for students who love dance and want to continue being a part of staged productions without the commitment of course work. Students are welcome to submit works of choreography for consideration in several performances throughout the year. Dance Ensemble students enjoy learning choreography from their peers in all styles of dance including but not limited to; jazz, hip hop, contemporary, tap and world dance forms. * No Audition Required*

Hip Hop Crew: The Hip Hop Crew is a high-energy program designed for experienced Hip Hop dancers to further develop movement and technique, but also musicality, rhythm, precision and quality of movement. Students participate in classes and choreography sessions with faculty and guest teaching artists. Students may earn up to one credit per semester for participation in this program as well as have many opportunities perform in staged productions throughout the year. *Try-outs held in the Fall*

Irish Dance Ensemble: The Irish Dance Ensemble is a high skill level, competitive Irish dance group. Student participate in one credit classes and choreography sessions weekly to learn modern and traditional choreography in both hard and soft shoe. They get to dance in many shows for the University and get the chance to compete in intercollegiate competitions. The program focuses on enhancing the skill level of already competitive Irish dancers, and allowing them to continue dance through their college experience. *Audition Required*

Ballroom Dance Ensemble: The Ballroom Dance Ensemble is open to dancers of all skill levels who enjoy the art of social dancing. Led by a professional dance instructor, students will develop skills in Foxtrot, Waltz, Tango and Latin Dances. Students may earn up to one credit per semester for participation in this program as well as have opportunities to perform throughout the year. *No Audition Required*

SHU Kickline: Kickline is one of our newest dance program offerings. This group focuses primarily on dance/kickline skills with an emphasis on teamwork, self-confidence and creativity. Kickline dancers work towards a performance in our Holiday Show as well as a spring competition. They also participate as needed in various other aspects of student life. Dancers with positive, upbeat attitudes are encouraged to tryout.*Try-outs held in the Fall*