School of Dance

- Ina Gittings Building, 1737 E University Blvd #121, Tucson, AZ 85719

The School of Dance at the University of Arizona is a nationally recognized institution that stands as a pillar of dance education in Tucson, Arizona. Located within the Ina Gittings Building, it is celebrated for its rigorous and comprehensive BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) program, which offers a unique "triple-track" curriculum with equal emphasis on ballet, modern, and jazz. This approach provides students with a versatile skill set that prepares them for a wide range of professional careers in the dance world. The school is known for its conservatory-like environment, combining the focused training of a professional program with the extensive resources of a major research university. As one of the top-ranked programs in the country, the School of Dance attracts talented students from across the nation and even internationally. Its commitment to excellence is reflected in the high quality of its student performances, which are not only "professionally prepared" but also "inexpensive" and a "joy to see," as noted by a long-time attendee. These public performances offer an accessible way for the Tucson community to experience the extraordinary "athletic ability and grace" of these student artists. Beyond the stage, the school provides a holistic education that includes courses in choreography, dance history, biomechanics, and injury prevention, ensuring students are well-rounded and prepared for a sustainable career. The faculty, many of whom have extensive professional experience, provide invaluable mentorship and instruction, fostering an environment where students can grow both as artists and as individuals. The School of Dance is a beacon of artistic excellence and a crucial part of the cultural fabric of Arizona.

The School of Dance is prominently situated on the University of Arizona campus within the Ina Gittings Building, located at 1737 E University Blvd #121, Tucson, AZ 85719. This central location places it at the heart of the university's vibrant and artistic community, making it easily accessible for both students and the public. The Ina Gittings Building itself is a historical site within the university, and while the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre handles most major performances, the Ina Gittings studios remain a primary space for rehearsals, classes, and auditions. The location on University Boulevard is a major advantage, providing straightforward access via public transportation and major roads for people from all over Tucson. The campus environment offers a lively and secure setting for students and visitors. While parking on a university campus can sometimes be a challenge, there are various parking options available, including garages and metered street parking in the vicinity, though it is always wise to plan ahead, especially during large campus events. The convenience of having the school in a central, well-known location is a significant benefit for prospective students and audience members. The proximity to other campus buildings and amenities also adds to the overall experience, allowing for easy access to other resources and events. The School of Dance's location in the Ina Gittings Building highlights its roots in the university's academic and artistic history while providing modern facilities for its rigorous programs, making it a well-integrated and easily accessible part of the Tucson arts scene.

Services Offered

• A comprehensive BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) degree with an equal emphasis on ballet, modern, and jazz.
• MFA (Master of Fine Arts) and minor programs in dance.
• Rigorous technical training and extensive performance opportunities through the UA Dance Ensemble.
• Courses in choreography, dance history, biomechanics, improvisation, and musical theatre.
• Performance opportunities in the state-of-the-art Stevie Eller Dance Theatre, among other venues.
• Academic and scholarly foundations for careers in performance, choreography, education, and research.
• Access to specialized resources for dancer health, including a dance medicine clinic and Pilates facilities.
• Guest artist residencies and collaborations with other departments on campus.

Features / Highlights

• Nationally ranked and internationally recognized dance program.
• "Triple-track" curriculum that provides a well-rounded and versatile education in ballet, modern, and jazz.
• A rigorous, conservatory-like training environment housed within a top-tier research university.
• Exceptional faculty with extensive professional experience.
• Abundant performance opportunities, with over 30 main stage concerts each year.
• A strong emphasis on dancer health, with on-site injury prevention and wellness resources.
• Opportunities for collaboration with other departments, including Music, Theatre, and the Sciences.
• Affordable and high-quality student performances that are open to the public.

Contact Information

Address: Ina Gittings Building, 1737 E University Blvd #121, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

Phone: (520) 621-4698

What is worth choosing

The School of Dance at the University of Arizona is a phenomenal choice for any aspiring dancer in the Arizona region, offering a combination of academic rigor, artistic excellence, and professional preparation that is hard to match. The reviews from community members who "have been attending student performances here for years" highlight the professionalism and joy that the students bring to the stage. This kind of public-facing opportunity is a core component of the program, giving students invaluable real-world experience. The school's unique "triple-track" curriculum, which equally emphasizes ballet, modern, and jazz, sets it apart from other programs that may focus on only one or two genres. This comprehensive training approach creates versatile dancers who are highly sought after in the professional world. The program’s dedication to dancer health, with access to specialized clinics and resources, shows a deep commitment to the well-being and longevity of its students’ careers. The ability to study dance within a major research university provides a well-rounded education that goes beyond the studio, with courses in biomechanics and dance history. This academic depth, combined with an intensive performance schedule, creates a truly holistic educational experience. For families and students in Arizona, the School of Dance at the University of Arizona represents a top-tier educational path that is both nationally renowned and locally accessible. It is a place where young artists can not only refine their craft but also develop into thoughtful, well-prepared professionals. By choosing this school, students are choosing a path that leads to a meaningful and sustainable career in the arts, all within the supportive and culturally rich environment of Tucson. The "outstanding performances" praised by patrons are a testament to the high standards and passion that define this institution, making it a truly worthy choice for anyone with a dream of dancing professionally.

School of Dance

Ina Gittings Building, 1737 E University Blvd #121, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA