Cornell adds dance minor to theatre offerings

You might feel the need to tango, tap, twirl, or two-step because Cornell College is launching a brand new minor in dance.

Faculty officially adopted the new offering in January, and planning is well underway to get everything prepared for students to select dance as their minor this fall. 

“The dance minor is an exciting addition to the Department of Theatre and Dance,” said Dance Artist-in-Residence Alvon Reed, who designed the program. “This focused dance effort will help strengthen performances and increase the presence of arts on campus as students explore ballet, contemporary modern, jazz, and musical theatre. The dance minor will also function as the foundation for the new bachelor of fine arts degree in musical theatre.”

Reed has dance experience nationally and internationally, connections across the industry, and expertise in a variety of dance forms. He also works with students outside of Cornell’s regular Block schedule to offer additional adjunct courses for students to continue building their skills. 

“We know that emerging performing artists need movement and dance training to thrive in the current creative economy,” said Professor of Theatre and Dance Janeve West. “Offering more dance options is an essential component of theatrical training, and this new option will help our students on whatever path they choose–landing jobs or continuing with graduate school after Cornell.”

Dance courses are open to any student of any background, year, or major. Visit Cornell College to find out more about the dance minor or any course of study.