What MT programs specialize/have more classes in dance, with still a very good amount of acting and singing classes, as well as precollege programs with more dance? Thank you!
OCU (Oklahoma City University) has all of its dance classes at the world renowned Ann Lacy School of Dance. Each type of dance offers 10 different levels which is really amazing. You are leveled each semester so you are sure to be placed into the level that matches your skill level. There are also classes in a variety of specialty dance types as well. One suggestion I always have for strong dancers is to consider the BFA Dance Performance degree at OCU. You must audition separately for the dance program. But it could be a good option, or at least perhaps a back up plan. (although it is an auditioned program as well so acceptance is not guaranteed)
As far as summer programs go, I know Boston Conservatory used to have a great summer program in dance. They and Point Park both have terrific dance programs when looking at MT programs for college as well. CCM would be another to take a look at. I’ve also heard good things about Utah and Arizona as far as dance goes. Baldwin Wallace used to have “ballet boot camp” where I believe the MT students had dance early every morning. And Penn State also had a good dance program. If you are a really advanced dancer, I would look for programs who level your dance classes and look to see how many levels there are. Some programs have their MT cohort take dance together for all 4 years. And while that can be terrific for bonding and to reinforce foundational skills, I know it can also be frustrating for advanced dancers who want to continue to improve and learn new techniques.
^^^Baldwin Wallace still has ballet boot camp four mornings per week (7-8 am I believe). Students are required to attend one day but may attend all four.
@vvnstar do you know of any pre college programs that are longer than 2 weeks? Thank you so much!
OCU offers 2,3,or 5 week programs. I think the costs range from about $2500-6500. You might also look into interlochen. They have a 6week program. You can also tack on a one week audition prep intensive there as well. Northwestern has the Cherubs program. Carnegie Mellon and NYU are also longer programs. MPulse at Michigan was about 3 weeks. Others to look into. The performing arts project, broadway theatre project and Artsbridge to name a few. There are people on here who are big fans of Stagedoor Manor also.
Oops. I just read that wrong, For 2weeks or less look into CCM, Indiana University, OCU, Baldwin Wallace, Broadway Dreams Foundation, Texas State, Penn State to start.
Boston Conservatory’s MTDI (Musical Theatre Dance Intensive) is awesome!
NYU has a a three week program. The dance is very good. It’s non audition for summer. They want academically strong students.
CCPA in Chicago offers a BFA MT (Dance) with Jane Lanier as the head of the program and it’s been very successful.
Shenandoah students have dance every semester and have the option to take other classes as an elective. Three of our dance faculty have Broadway credits and the others are fabulous in their areas (ballet, modern, tap, etc.)
~VT