UO Department of Dance

- Gerlinger Annex, 1484 University St, Eugene, OR 97403

The University of Oregon Department of Dance, nestled within the historic Gerlinger Annex on the UO campus in Eugene, stands as a vibrant epicenter for the study and practice of movement. This academic department is a cornerstone of the Oregon arts community, offering a rich and comprehensive curriculum that caters to both dedicated dance majors and students from across the university who wish to explore dance as an elective or a creative outlet. Far more than just a place for classes, it is a dynamic community where students and faculty engage in rigorous training, creative exploration, and scholarly research. The department's focus is on providing a holistic education that combines technical proficiency with theoretical knowledge, fostering a deep understanding of dance as an art form, a cultural practice, and a mode of human expression. For anyone in the Oregon region with an interest in dance—whether as a career path, a form of fitness, or a way to connect with the arts—the UO Department of Dance offers an unparalleled resource and a welcoming environment. It is a place where aspiring professionals, curious beginners, and seasoned performers alike can find their rhythm and expand their horizons, contributing to the rich artistic tapestry of the state.

The Department of Dance is conveniently situated at the Gerlinger Annex, located at 1484 University St, Eugene, OR 97403, USA. Its central location on the University of Oregon campus makes it highly accessible for students and community members. For those driving, the department offers a notable convenience: a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring that accessibility is a priority from the moment you arrive. This thoughtful amenity is a testament to the department's commitment to inclusivity. The main entrance to the Gerlinger Annex is also wheelchair-accessible, providing a smooth and welcoming entry for all visitors. This ease of access is a significant advantage for students with mobility needs, allowing them to participate fully in all aspects of the department's programs. The campus location also means it is well-served by local public transportation, including the Lane Transit District (LTD) bus system, making it easy to reach from various parts of Eugene and the surrounding areas. The combination of on-site parking and public transit options ensures that getting to the department is simple and stress-free, allowing students to focus on their passion for dance.

The services offered by the UO Department of Dance are extensive and designed to support a wide range of academic and artistic goals. They go beyond simple dance classes to provide a full-fledged educational experience.

• Undergraduate programs in dance, including a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Dance. These programs offer a deep dive into technique, theory, and choreography.
• Graduate programs for those seeking to further their academic and artistic careers.
• A diverse curriculum featuring a wide range of dance styles, including ballet, modern, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, and various world dance forms, taught by experienced and celebrated faculty.
• Performance opportunities through student showcases, faculty concerts, and collaborative productions, allowing students to apply their skills in a professional setting.
• Courses in dance history, theory, anatomy, and kinesiology, providing a well-rounded education that supports both performance and scholarly pursuits.
• Opportunities for choreography and creative research, encouraging students to develop their unique artistic voices.
• Community outreach and engagement programs that connect the department with the local Eugene and Oregon arts scene.
• Access to state-of-the-art dance studios and performance spaces, equipped with professional sound and lighting to facilitate an optimal learning environment.

The UO Department of Dance is distinguished by several key features and highlights that set it apart as a premier institution for dance education in the Pacific Northwest.

• The academic rigor of its programs, which combines intensive physical training with a strong theoretical and historical foundation, preparing students for diverse careers in the field.
• A faculty of accomplished dancers, choreographers, and scholars who are not only experts in their fields but are also dedicated mentors to their students.
• The emphasis on creative exploration and new work development, providing a space where students can experiment and grow as choreographers.
• The department's location within a major public research university, which allows for interdisciplinary collaboration with other departments, such as music, theater, and sports medicine.
• A strong commitment to accessibility, as evidenced by the wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, making dance education available to a wider population.
• A supportive and inclusive community that values diversity in dance styles, backgrounds, and personal experiences.
• The opportunity to participate in a vibrant campus life and the rich cultural scene of Eugene, Oregon.

For those interested in learning more or visiting the UO Department of Dance, the contact information is as follows: Address: Gerlinger Annex, 1484 University St, Eugene, OR 97403, USA. Phone: The department's general inquiries can be directed through the main University of Oregon contact channels, or specific departmental information can be found on the university's official website.

Choosing the UO Department of Dance is a decision to invest in a comprehensive and enriching educational experience that goes beyond the typical dance studio model. What is truly worth choosing about this department is its unique blend of academic excellence and artistic creativity. Students are not just taught dance steps; they are educated in the full scope of dance as a discipline. The program's commitment to both performance and scholarship ensures that graduates are well-prepared for a variety of paths, whether they wish to become professional dancers, choreographers, dance educators, arts administrators, or scholars. The faculty's expertise and dedication provide a guiding light for students, while the diverse curriculum allows for a personalized and flexible course of study. Furthermore, the accessibility features, such as the wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance, underscore a deep-seated value of inclusivity, making the department a welcoming space for everyone in the Oregon community who has a passion for movement. For residents of Oregon, particularly those in and around the Eugene area, the UO Department of Dance represents a premier local option for high-level dance training and education, offering a world-class program right in your own backyard. It is an institution that fosters not only technical skill but also critical thinking, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for the art of dance.

UO Department of Dance

Gerlinger Annex, 1484 University St, Eugene, OR 97403, USA