Dance

Dance is increasingly being recognized and valued as a form of expression for the building of the body, the mind and the soul. In view of that, dance is offered to our students to allow for a more holistic development. This course helps to extend the participant’s understanding of how the body responds to rhythm and moreover, they develop an appreciation for the tradition of dance as an international language.

The programme is geared at analyzing the history of movement and dance in a social context, and encourages an enthusiasm for dance in a theatre situation. Students explore the role of Jamaican and Caribbean dance in history and society, and they are introduced to the cultures of the people of different islands, exploring kinship and gender aesthetics of arts and religion.

Importantly, students are exposed to the economic value of dance as a central component of Jamaica’s intangible cultural heritage. They are encouraged to contemplate the “use” value of the discipline in relation to entrepreneurship.

Upon completion of this course, students should have a basic knowledge of elementary techniques in dance and be able to perform movements with confidence and style. They should be able to analyze and evaluate Jamaican dance history within the context of cultural identity and development. Additionally, they should be able to demonstrate their performance on stage, and their proficiency in executing various dance forms.

Dance Elective is offered Semesters 1 and 2, Tuesdays 5-8pm and Wednesdays 12-2pm.

Dance Extra-curricular is offered Semesters 1 and 2 Fridays 5-8pm.