University of Wisconsin Dance Department

- 125, Lathrop Hall, 1050 University Ave, Madison, WI 53706

The University of Wisconsin Dance Department, located in historic Lathrop Hall, is not just a place for higher education; it is a landmark of American dance history. Founded in 1926 by the visionary Margaret H'Doubler, this was the first institution in the country to establish a dance degree program. Today, it continues to honor this legacy by offering a world-class, interdisciplinary curriculum that challenges students to think critically, move creatively, and make a meaningful impact on the world. The department's philosophy is rooted in the belief that dance is a rigorous academic discipline and a powerful tool for self-discovery and creative expression. Students here engage in a dynamic blend of technical training, scholarly inquiry, and artistic innovation. Whether you are an aspiring professional performer, a future dance educator, or simply someone passionate about the art form, the University of Wisconsin Dance Department provides an inclusive and supportive community where you can thrive. It is a place where tradition meets innovation, preparing the next generation of artists and scholars for a diverse and ever-evolving field.

The University of Wisconsin Dance Department is housed in the historic Lathrop Hall at 1050 University Ave, Madison, WI 53706, USA. This central location on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus makes it a notable and accessible point of interest in the heart of the city. The department is committed to accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that the facilities are open to everyone. This commitment to inclusivity is a core part of the department’s values. Lathrop Hall itself is a beautiful and historic building, providing a unique and inspiring backdrop for artistic and academic pursuits. Its location near Lake Mendota and downtown Madison offers students and visitors a vibrant environment with easy access to a wealth of local attractions, cafes, and other university facilities. The convenience of its location makes it a central hub for the dance community in Madison and beyond.

The University of Wisconsin Dance Department offers a comprehensive range of academic and artistic programs designed to prepare students for a variety of careers and pursuits in the dance world. The curriculum is built on a foundation of creative investigation, scholarship, and rigorous training.

• Undergraduate Degrees: The department offers both a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Dance, providing different pathways for students to pursue their artistic and academic interests.
• Graduate Programs: An innovative Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program is available for those seeking advanced study in the field.
• Dance Certificates: Students can specialize through various certificate programs, including a general certificate in Dance, Dance Education, Dance Studies, Dance/Movement Therapy, and Pilates.
• Core Curriculum: The program includes a wide range of courses, from dance technique classes in ballet, modern dance, and hip-hop, to critical and creative investigation courses in dance history, composition, and production.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have numerous opportunities to take the stage each year, performing in faculty works, pieces by renowned guest artists, and their own original choreography in dedicated student concerts.
• Interdisciplinary Studies: The curriculum is designed to connect dance to the arts, humanities, and sciences, allowing students to pursue double majors and explore diverse fields like kinesiology, music, and theatre.
• Elective Courses: The department offers a variety of elective dance courses that are open to all university students, providing an opportunity for anyone to explore dance without being in the degree program.
• Summer Intensives: The department hosts summer intensive programs, bringing pre-collegiate students to campus for focused, high-level training.

The University of Wisconsin Dance Department is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a leader in dance education both in Wisconsin and on a national scale.

• Historic Lathrop Hall: Located in a building that is on the National Register of Historic Places, the department's home is a testament to its legacy. Lathrop Hall features four spacious dance studios, a fully equipped 240-seat theater (The Margaret H'Doubler Performance Space), and various specialized labs.
• Pioneering Legacy: The department was the first in the nation to establish a dance degree program, founded by pioneer Margaret H'Doubler. This historic foundation gives the program a unique and respected place in the world of dance education.
• World-Class Faculty: Students have unparalleled access to a diverse and exceptional faculty who are leaders in their fields, committed to providing mentorship and support.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Lathrop Hall boasts over 12,600 square feet of studio space with sprung floors, a sound lab, video lab, and a costume/sewing room, providing everything a student needs for a comprehensive education.
• Guest Artists Program: The department regularly hosts internationally renowned guest artists and choreographers, providing students with unique opportunities to work with and learn from some of the best in the field.
• Scholarship Opportunities: The department offers scholarships and awards to students who show exceptional promise, helping to make a high-level dance education more accessible.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: The curriculum's focus on connecting dance to other fields of study prepares students for a variety of careers beyond performance, including arts administration, dance/movement therapy, and education.

For more information on programs, admissions, or performances, you can reach out to the department directly.

Address: 125, Lathrop Hall, 1050 University Ave, Madison, WI 53706, USA

Phone: (608) 262-1691

Why is the University of Wisconsin Dance Department a truly exceptional choice for your dance education? Its historical significance and ongoing commitment to innovation set it apart. As the first institution to offer a dance degree, it has a legacy of excellence and a deep understanding of the art form's academic rigor. This is not a hobbyist's program; it is a serious and comprehensive course of study that prepares students for meaningful careers. The department’s location in Lathrop Hall provides an inspiring and fully-equipped environment, from its spacious studios to its intimate performance space. The faculty's expertise, combined with opportunities to work with world-renowned guest artists, ensures that students receive a top-tier education and build a professional network. Furthermore, the interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum means that students can blend their passion for dance with other academic interests, creating a unique and personalized degree path. The program’s commitment to providing performance opportunities, from student-led projects to large-scale faculty concerts, gives students invaluable stage experience. For students in Wisconsin and beyond, the University of Wisconsin Dance Department offers the perfect blend of historical significance, academic rigor, and artistic freedom, making it an excellent investment in their future.

University of Wisconsin Dance Department

125, Lathrop Hall, 1050 University Ave, Madison, WI 53706, USA