Courses

PY.800.101.  Ballet 1a.  3 Credits.  
PY.800.101 consists of a daily 80-minute long Ballet technique studio class with possible readings, video viewings, reflection journal and performance attendance with written assignment.Designed to further develop technical skills, PY.800.101 focuses on developing strength, proper alignment and correct execution of ballet steps and combinations, emphasizing proper placement of body, head, arms, and legs.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
PY.800.102.  Ballet 1b.  3 Credits.  
PY.800.102 consists of a daily 80-minute long Ballet technique studio class with possible readings, video viewings, reflection journal and performance attendance with written assignment.Designed to further develop technical skills, PY.800.102 focuses on developing strength, proper alignment and correct execution of ballet steps and combinations, emphasizing proper placement of body, head, arms, and legs.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
PY.800.103.  Modern 1a.  3 Credits.  
PY.800.103 consists of a daily 80-minute long Modern Dance technique studio class with possible readings, video viewings, reflection journal and performance attendance with written assignment. Intensive study of Modern Dance technique providing continued development of the body as an instrument for modern dance with an emphasis on alignment and technique, efficiency, self-correction, style and composition.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
PY.800.104.  Modern 1b.  3 Credits.  
PY.800.104 consists of a daily 80-minute long Modern Dance technique studio class with possible readings, video viewings, reflection journal and performance attendance with written assignment. Intensive study of Modern Dance technique providing continued development of the body as an instrument for modern dance with an emphasis on alignment and technique, efficiency, self-correction, style and composition.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Modern 1a required, PY.800.103[C]
PY.800.108.  Screen Dance.  2 Credits.  
PY.800.108 consists of a once a week 80-minute studio/lab class with possible readings and video viewings. Intensive study of the history, theory and fundamental skills of Screen Dance. This is an elective course that can be taken multiple times for credit.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.800.114.  Dynamic Partnering.  2 Credits.  
PY.800.201.  Ballet 2a.  3 Credits.  
PY.800.201 consists of a daily 80-minute long Ballet technique studio class with possible readings, video viewings, reflection journal and performance attendance with written assignment.Designed to further develop technical skills, PY.800.201 focuses on developing strength, proper alignment and correct execution of ballet steps and combinations, emphasizing proper placement of body, head, arms, and legs.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Ballet 1b required, PY.800.102[C]
PY.800.202.  Ballet 2b.  3 Credits.  
PY.800.202 consists of a daily 80-minute long Ballet technique studio class with possible readings, video viewings, reflection journal and performance attendance with written assignment.Designed to further develop technical skills, PY.800.202 focuses on developing strength, proper alignment and correct execution of ballet steps and combinations, emphasizing proper placement of body, head, arms, and legs.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Ballet 2a required, PY.800.201[C]
PY.800.203.  Modern 2a.  3 Credits.  
PY.800.203 consists of a daily 80-minute long Modern Dance technique studio class with possible readings, video viewings, reflection journal and performance attendance with written assignment.Intensive study of Modern Dance technique providing continued development of the body as an instrument for modern dance with an emphasis on alignment and technique, efficiency, self-correction, style and composition.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Modern 1b required, PY.800.104[C]
PY.800.204.  Modern 2b.  3 Credits.  
PY.800.204 consists of a daily 80-minute long Modern Dance technique studio class with possible readings, video viewings, reflection journal and performance attendance with written assignment.Intensive study of Modern Dance technique providing continued development of the body as an instrument for modern dance with an emphasis on alignment and technique, efficiency, self-correction, style and composition.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Modern 2a required, PY.800.203[C]
PY.800.301.  Ballet 3a.  3 Credits.  
PY.800.301 consists of a daily 60-minute long Ballet technique online classes with possible readings, video viewings, reflection journal and performance virtual attendance with written assignment. Designed to further develop technical skills, PY.800.301 focuses on developing strength, proper alignment and correct execution of ballet steps and combinations, emphasizing proper placement of body, head, arms, and legs.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Ballet 2b required, PY.800.202[C]
PY.800.302.  Ballet 3b.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Ballet 3a required, PY.800.301[C]
PY.800.303.  Modern 3a.  3 Credits.  
PY.800.303 consists of a daily 80-minute or 60-minute long Modern Dance technique studio class with possible readings, video viewings, reflection journal and performance attendance with written assignment. Intensive study of numerous Modern Dance Techniques, including Muller Polarity Technique, providing continued development of the body as an instrument for modern dance with an emphasis on alignment and technique, efficiency, self-correction, style and composition.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Modern 2b required, PY.800.204[C]
PY.800.304.  Modern 3b.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Modern 3a required, PY.800.303[C]
PY.800.311.  Intermediate Pointe Practice.  2 Credits.  
This course focuses on the refinement of classical pointe technique while exploring contemporary approaches within the ballet lexicon. Students will train in and analyze the principles of classical and neoclassical variations, considering their historical and aesthetic contexts. Emphasis is placed on the development of interpretive skills, stylistic nuance, and performance quality, supporting both technical mastery and artistic expression.
Prerequisite(s): Dance majors only
PY.800.322.  Dancing for Film.  2 Credits.  
A hands-on exploration of how movement translates from stage to screen with an emphasis on detailed treatments, precise movement direction, and dance studio-based camera techniques.
Prerequisite(s): Dance majors only
PY.800.401.  Ballet 4a.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Ballet 3b required, PY.800.302[C]
PY.800.402.  Ballet 4b.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Ballet 4a required, PY.800.401[C]
PY.800.403.  Modern 4a.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Modern 3b required, PY.800.304[C]
PY.800.404.  Modern 4b.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Modern 4a required, PY.800.403[C]
PY.800.411.  Pilates.  2 Credits.  
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.800.412.  Hip Hop.  2 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.800.413.  Pilates 2.  2 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Students must take Pilates (PY.800.411) before they can enroll in Pilates 2
PY.800.501.  Rehearsal/Performance Collaboration Fall.  1 Credit.  
PY.800.501 consists of daily/weekly rehearsals with faculty and/or guest choreographers, culminating in a performance of some kind. Designed to further develop performance and technical skills, PY.800.501 focuses on developing & refining proper rehearsal etiquette, memorization proficiency, active listening aptitude, improvisation skills and performance technique.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
PY.800.502.  Rehearsal/Performance Collaboration Spring.  1 Credit.  
PY.800.502 consists of daily/weekly rehearsals with faculty and/or guest choreographers, culminating in a performance of some kind. Designed to further develop performance and technical skills, PY.800.502 focuses on developing & refining proper rehearsal etiquette, memorization proficiency, active listening aptitude, improvisation skills and performance technique.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
PY.800.503.  Student Dance Company 1.  2 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Seniors only. Students must have completed Ballet 3b and Modern 3b.
PY.800.504.  Student Dance Company 2.  2 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Open to Seniors only. Must have completed Ballet 3b and Modern 3b.
PY.800.510.  DD Dance Practice.  3 Credits.  
The course is for dance double degree students only.
Prerequisite(s): Dance Majors only
PY.800.511.  DD Dance Practice.  3 Credits.  
Open to dance double degree students only.
Prerequisite(s): Dance majors only.
PY.810.201.  Somatic Practices 1.  3 Credits.  
PY.810.201 is a 3 credit, bi-weekly, 80-minute long Somatics course inclusive of lecture, discussion, guided movement explorations and sequences, readings, presentations and journal reflection.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
PY.810.202.  Somatic Practices 2.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Somatic Practices 1 required, PY.810.201[C]
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.810.302.  Kinesiology.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.810.303.  Kinesiology 2.  3 Credits.  
Consists of a twice weekly 80-minute course for dancers to further exploration of human anatomy and the biomechanics of movement specifically as it pertains to dance. Additional muscles will be discussed to enrich the curriculum from the prerequisite for this course, Kinesiology. Complex kinesiologic analysis, arthrokinematics, motor control, and exercise physiology will be discussed and experienced. Dance and sports psychology will be introduced. The students will explore research in dance medicine and science to deepen an understanding of the field. Research trends in the field will be addressed through reading and discussion. This course develops critical thinking skills to further advance the ability to navigate between the interrelated disciplines of art and science. It includes lecture, discussion, reading assignments, expanded assessment and corrective exercise techniques, and laboratory sessions. Lab work will focus on didactic experiences where the students will be able to apply the principles learned for use as dancers, teachers, choreographers, and performers.
Prerequisite(s): Students must have taken Kinesiology
PY.810.304.  Body Conditioning.  2 Credits.  
Dancer specific cross-training & self-care techniques for peak performance and career longevity.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.820.201.  Critical Dance Studies 1.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
PY.820.202.  Critical Dance Studies 2.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.;Completion of Critical Dance Studies 1 required, PY.820.201[C]
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.820.223.  Disco Revival: Dance & Culture.  2 Credits.  
A modern disco dance and culture class offers a vibrant exploration of the evolution and resurgence of disco music and dance from the 1970s to today. This class immerses students in the iconic rhythms, movements, and styles that define the disco era, while also examining how contemporary artists and dancers have reinterpreted these elements. Through a combination of dance instruction, music analysis, and cultural discussions, participants not only learn classic disco moves like the Hustle and the Bump but also explore the fashion, nightlife, and social dynamics that characterized the disco scene. The class fosters an appreciation for the genre's influence on modern pop culture and its role in promoting inclusivity and self-expression, making it a dynamic and engaging experience for all ages and skill levels.
PY.820.301.  Dance of the African Diaspora.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
PY.820.401.  Dance Pedagogy.  3 Credits.  
Principles and techniques of the pedagogy of dance, including a survey of contemporary models for movement education. Prerequisites: at least one semester of Somatic Practices and one semester of Choreography.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.830.101.  Music for Dance.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
PY.830.102.  Dance Production.  2 Credits.  
PY.830.102 consists of a bi-weekly 80-minute long theory/laboratory class with readings, video viewings, research project and written assignments. An introduction to the fundamental aspects of dance production, PY.830.102 focuses on the various steps to launch a production/dance festival, possibly including such things as fundraising, publicity, lighting, grant writing, creating media content, etc.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.830.201.  Contact Improvisation.  2 Credits.  
Creative exploration of partner and small-group dance forms following shared points of contact.
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.830.202.  Improv/Authentic Movement.  2 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only.
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.830.204.  Contemporary Commercial Dance Styles.  2 Credits.  
Contemporary Commercial Dance Styles 1 consists of a twice weekly 80-minute-long studio class with possible readings, video viewings, and reflection journal. Introductory study of Contemporary Commercial Dance Styles, providing continued development of the body as an instrument of diverse movement
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance majors only. Other students wishing to take the course must receive written instructor approval.
PY.830.301.  Choreography 1.  3 Credits.  
This Choreography Course is designed as an opportunity for student artists to explore the interdisciplinary and cross-sector possibilities of embodiment, performance, and dance-making. How might we integrate, interrogate, and influence our worlds of thought and praxis through the power of our crafts? Students will work in movement-based laboratories, and critical discourse, unpacking the cultural and sociopolitical dynamics at work in our institutional, programmatic, relational, and personal frames. Processes will include, Improvisation, Journaling, and Group Sharing that encourage a holistic lens in perceiving, making, and interrogating performance and other art forms.
Prerequisite(s): Improv/Authentic Movement completion required (PY.830.202[C]).;Open to Dance majors only.
PY.830.302.  Choreography 2.  3 Credits.  
Prerequisite(s): Choreography 1 needed (PY.830.301[C]).;Open to Dance majors only.
Distribution Area: P, Y
PY.830.303.  Choreography 3.  3 Credits.  
An in-depth exploration of embodied interdisciplinary research resulting in a capstone project. The course ends with an individualized summative assessment of the work for the semester. This is the final course of 4-course sequence in Choreography. Prerequisite: Choreography II. (3 credits). This course can be repeated up to two times.
PY.960.102.  Dance Study Abroad: Amsterdam.  6 Credits.  
Peabody Dance's summer study abroad program in Amsterdam.
Prerequisite(s): Open to Dance Majors Only.