<p>I was wondering if anyone had any information on the dance program at Webster for MT students. Everything about Webster seems appealing-and we know some alumni who loved the program, but I can’t find much info on the dance curriculum. I wonder how important it is given the fact that it is not part of their audition process at Unifieds. I DID notice that you can minor in dance. Does anyone have knowledge of someone who was a MT major with a minor in dance?
Any info would be appreciated.</p>
<p>I can only speak as a new Webster MT mom so my knowledge is limited. I was concerned about the same issue. From what the students and faculty have told me, because there is a BFA in dance the program is strong. MT students are required to take ballet the first year. It was suggested to us by parents and students to have our D take a summer ballet course if her knowledge was limited because the class would be rigorous. Each year, a new dance focus will be studied (i.e., jazz, tap, etc.). During our conversation with Lara, the MT Program Coordinator, he informed that her dance experiences would be thorough and prepare her as a triple threat. We sat in on some classes and felt they were definitely rigorous. As I said, we don't have actual experience to relate yet (my D starts her Webster life in about one week) so I'm sure there are many more informed parents and students who can be more detailed with information regarding this.</p>
<p>For MT prospectives who audition on-campus, a dance audition IS required. Off-campus auditions do not include a dance component at this time (primarily because of space and logistical requirements). It's possible this could change, but that is the policy for now.</p>
<p>The dance program at Webster is indeed quite strong. BA and BFA degrees are offered, and the studios and dance facilities are modern and up to date. The program is ballet based, but significant training is also offered in modern as well as jazz and tap.</p>
<p>A student could major in MT and minor in dance but it would be somewhat unnecessary since musical theatre majors at Webster are required to take a lot of dance as part of their curriculum. Here is a link with information I think you will find helpful:</p>
<p>The MT program is actually so vigorous that it can in theory be called a triple major. The kids are worked hard....it is a conservatory. My sons' room mate was an acting major and then minored in dance....works out nicely as he can then be considered for more roles in the workforce.</p>
<p>Taking a summer ballet class indeed is a good idea. Just learning the language of ballet is an assest as your d or s will then know what the instructor is talking about when requesting certain moves.</p>
<p>Speaking realistically however, just because one takes dance classes all four years will not necessarily guarantee you to be a triple threat....unless you have an uncanny gift for dance. My guys had numerous years of tap...and can do it pretty well....on the other hand, they were never born with the God given grace it takes to succeed in ballet. Candidly (and with utmost humbleness), they will never be true triple threats....BUT they can certainly act a dance. AND all those dance classes certainly improved their movement ablilities.</p>
<p>I am chiming in rather late. We just returned from taking our D back to school. She came to the program with quite a bit of dance experience. At Webster she has taken ballet II, jazz II, Modern and is currently in Dance for Musical Theatre. Continuing her dance training has been important to her and she has audited quite a few dance classes as well. Her dance experience was instrumental in getting her a summer stock job this past summer.<br>
Marianne</p>
<p>When we visited in 2008, we were told that even though they offer a BFA in Dance, they do not offer dance leveling for MT students. Is this still the case?</p>