Summer Institute Dance

Overview

This summer, you’ll study a wide variety of offerings including workshops in dance studies, professional practices, dance and alternative media, and collaborative art practices with students in other Pre-College programs. Classes are designed to enhance versatility, precision, experimentation and communication.

Transform the way you approach the practice and making of dances. Develop physicality and artistry under the guidance of celebrated teachers and choreographers. The program includes over a dozen student-selected workshops, choreographic projects, artist talks, professional dance performances, trips and open studio space for developing student work. Rising seniors have the opportunity to audition for fall 2024 undergraduate admission.

At the end of this program, you will

• demonstrate creative and technical growth in a final public sharing.

• gain valuable skills in sharing, speaking and writing about dance.

• demonstrate tools and methodologies used in both the making and performing of dances.

• acquire an expanded understanding of contemporary choreographers, performers, practices and career possibilities.

Programming

You’ll participate in up to five classes a day, including daily studio practice classes, two or more choreographic projects, and a variety of seminars and workshops. 

Studio Practice

Daily studio practice offerings include

• Ballet

• Traditional modern dance techniques

• Improvisation and composition

• Hip hop

• Jazz

• Contemporary forms

Choreographic Projects

Participate in the creation of an original work, choreographed and mentored by UArts faculty. Additionally, choose a second choreographic project focusing on ballet, jazz or hip hop. These projects will be performed in the final sharing.

Student-Selected Workshops

Each day, you’ll select from a variety of rotating course choices to complement and enhance the work done in your other classes. You will choose new offerings each week once you’ve arrived on campus. 

Past workshops include

Faculty

Courses in the Dance program are taught by an eclectic group of choreographers, performers and educators from across the globe. The majority of our faculty teach in the degree programs at UArts. Our expert faculty is comprised of seasoned educators and dedicated artists who enjoy sharing their expertise and collaborating with the next generation of dancers.

How to Apply

Start your application. 

The priority deadline to apply is April 15. Applications will be considered after this date on a space-available basis. 

Application Requirements

• Complete the Summer Institute application.

• Submit a pre-recorded audition.

  • Up to five minutes of technical demonstration at the barre and/or center

  • A two-minute solo performance

• Pay the $15 application fee.

Tuition & Fees  

Tuition: $2,800
Program fee: $150  
Housing and meals: $1,425

Commuter total: $2,950
Residential total: $4,375

Supplies

Students are expected to bring supplies with them or purchase them once they arrive on campus. Supply lists will be shared one month before the program starts, with cost estimates.

Spending & Miscellaneous Expenses

Students spend an average of $80–$100 per week on additional items including laundry, snacks, personal spending and non-required supplies.

Scholarships

Scholarships for the Summer Institute are awarded to students in high academic standing with significant creative potential and financial need. Scholarship awards are competitive. Students are able to apply for either a merit- or need-based scholarship. 

Learn about Summer Institute scholarships.