Choreography and Dance at Winchester offers opportunities for students to engage in a wide range of learning situations which develop an enhanced understanding of dance, choreography and the role of dance in the modern world.
The programme is highly practical and students create their own works, exploring and experimenting with choreographic tools as well as studying theories of movement along with social and cultural aspects of dance. They also learn to look at dance and articulate verbally on what they see with clarity and confidence.
Programme content
The programme integrates theory with practice. Students studying the Single Honours programme will have regular technique classes in a variety of styles including Graham, Cunningham, Limon, and Release. All Level 2 and 3 students are able to audition for the performance group which tours schools and colleges performing work by both staff and students. Staff and student work is frequently presented to the public in the University’s Performance Gym and there is an annual visit to the Fontys Dance Festival in Tilburg Holland where selected staff and student work is presented.
Modules
In Level 1 students are introduced to improvisation and choreography and to the wider historical, cultural, social and artistic contexts of the study of dance. Modules include: Anatomy and Physiology for Dance; Critical Studies; Fundamentals of Choreography; and Improving and Devising. Technique classes are supported by courses in anatomy and physiology and music for dancers. There are regular excursions to view performances of professional dance work as well as visits from established dance companies and practising artists from different cultural perspectives working in a range of styles and traditions.
In Level 2 students further extend their choreographic skills and have the opportunity to pursue areas of special interest including: West African Dance; Dance for the Camera; Computer technology.
Level 3 is mainly student-led, allowing the student to define, revisit and develop creative, critical, theoretical and practical outlets for their particular enthusiasms. Students’ independent study is supported by courses including: Physical Theatre; Dance Management; Dance Writing; Dance Facilitation; and Choreography in the Musical.
Learning and teaching
Students study a combination of practice and theory through lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials.
Facilities
The University has well-resourced facilities which include two theatre spaces and a high quality dance studio; IT software for student use including Life Forms, Sound Beam and Director; rehearsal rooms; and appropriate lecture/seminar spaces. New facilities including studios, practice rooms, IT studio and performance spaces are available in the restored listed building, the West Downs Centre.
Assessment
Assessment includes practical presentation of solo and group choreography, lecture demonstrations, essays, journal writing and live debates. Students also complete a 10,000 word Final Year Project on a subject of their choice during Level 3.
Career opportunities
The degree level study in Choreography and Dance leads to a broad spectrum of career opportunities. Often students opt for postgraduate study specialising in choreography, therapy, education or community dance. There are also direct routes into community projects or arts administration and management. Graduates have moved into performance and can be found in the companies of Henry Oguike and Richard Alston.