UWM PSOA Department of Dance

- 2400 E Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53211

For those passionate about dance in Wisconsin, the UWM Peck School of the Arts Department of Dance is not just an academic institution; it is a vital part of the state's cultural landscape. Located in Milwaukee, this department stands out as a destination for serious dance artists and educators seeking a comprehensive and transformative education. The program is built on a foundation of diverse dance practices, research, and community engagement, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in the field. This is a place where artistic individuality is nurtured, and students are prepared for a wide range of professional roles, from performing and choreographing to teaching and outreach.

The UWM Dance Department's curriculum is thoughtfully designed to be innovative and relevant. It integrates multiple dance disciplines with somatic practices, creating a learning environment that prioritizes a balance of body and mind. Students can explore a variety of dance forms, including contemporary, ballet, jazz, and traditional forms from the African diaspora, all while developing critical thinking and communication skills. What truly elevates the program is the opportunity to work with renowned guest artists and choreographers who visit the campus each semester. These residencies provide students with direct experience with current and diverse global practices, connecting them to the wider dance world and enriching their education beyond the classroom.

The department's commitment to community and professional development is a key highlight. Students are not only trained in the studio but are also encouraged to get involved with Milwaukee's professional dance companies, such as Danceworks, Ko-Thi Dance Company, and Wild Space. These connections provide invaluable networking and internship opportunities that can help launch a professional career. The faculty, who are themselves working artists, are deeply committed to individual student development, serving as mentors and allies on their transformative journey. The supportive and diverse community within the Peck School of the Arts ensures that students are not just getting an education but are joining a collective of passionate artists dedicated to honing their craft and advancing themselves in the professional realm.

The UWM PSOA Department of Dance is situated at 2400 E Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA. This location places it within the larger University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee campus, offering a vibrant college environment with access to numerous resources. As a university department, it is integrated into a larger campus system, which means accessibility features are a priority. The facilities offer a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that students and visitors with mobility challenges can comfortably access the buildings. For those commuting from around the Milwaukee area and beyond, the campus is served by a variety of public transportation options and is easily reachable by car.

The campus environment provides a rich tapestry of experiences for students, from state-of-the-art studios to captivating performance spaces. The department's annual performances, such as "Winterdances" and "Springdances," are held at university venues and provide a public showcase for student and faculty work. These productions are a significant part of Milwaukee's arts calendar, drawing audiences from across the region to witness world premieres and new works by emerging choreographers. This visibility and performance experience are invaluable for students preparing to enter the professional world.

Services Offered:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Dance
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Dance
• Minor in Dance Performance
• Minor in Somatics
• Technique classes in various dance forms
• Choreography and improvisation courses
• Dance history and theory classes
• Opportunities to perform in department concerts and showcases
• Workshops and masterclasses with guest artists
• Community engagement and outreach programs
• Internships with local professional dance companies

Features / Highlights:

• Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot: The university prioritizes accessibility for students and visitors.
• Comprehensive and Innovative Curriculum: Integrates diverse dance practices and somatic work.
• Expert Faculty: Taught by a team of full-time faculty, lecturers, and guest artists who are active professionals.
• Strong Community and Industry Connections: Students are involved with professional companies in Milwaukee.
• Diverse Performance Opportunities: Four major concerts presented annually featuring student and faculty choreography.
• Career Preparation: Programs are designed to prepare students for successful careers in performance, choreography, and education.
• Research Opportunities: Students can engage in research and creative projects.

Contact Information:

• Address: 2400 E Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA
• Phone: (414) 229-1122

What makes the UWM PSOA Department of Dance worth choosing is its ability to offer a world-class dance education within a supportive and accessible community. For Wisconsin residents, it provides a unique opportunity to receive professional-level training without leaving the state, while also being immersed in a vibrant local arts scene. The program is recognized nationally for its excellence and for its focus on developing the whole artist—not just the body, but also the mind and creative spirit. Students graduate with a strong technical foundation, a critical understanding of the art form, and a professional network that can open doors to a wide range of career paths.

The faculty's dedication to student success is a major draw, as is the department's commitment to staying current with the evolving dance world. The ability to work with guest artists and perform in professional-quality shows gives students a significant advantage in the job market. This is a place for those who are serious about a career in dance, whether as a performer, choreographer, educator, or a combination of all three. For any aspiring dancer in Wisconsin looking for a place to grow and thrive, the UWM PSOA Department of Dance is an exceptional choice that offers a complete and enriching experience.

UWM PSOA Department of Dance

2400 E Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA