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Expecations
Both BFA and BA student/dancers have an obligation to participate fully in all aspects of the Dance Program. Regular class attendance is mandatory and important to one’s development as an individual artist and performer.
BFA Dance majors are required to participate in Wichita Contemporary Dance Theatre each year of study and encouraged to participate in the student organization, Mid- America Dance Theatre. Majors are encouraged to perform in the choreography projects of fellow students.
BA majors have the opportunity and are encouraged to integrate a complimentary field of study with the dance component in close consultation with a faculty advisor.
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Standards
Depending on academic and program standing, Dance Program majors must enroll or participate each semester in a dance technique class. Once any class is in session, no one is allowed to enter or leave without the instructor’s permission. Majors are required to attend technique class the same day as a rehearsal. Promptness to class, rehearsals, and crew calls are mandatory. All students are expected to wear proper attire for all classes as specified by the instructor. No rehearsal has priority over any class.
Choreographers will set all dance rehearsals at hours that will not conflict with University scheduled classes. Usage of dance studios and program equipment is a privilege and must be cleared through the office of the Director of Dance.
The Director of Dance with the dance faculty approval may grant leave of absence for professional engagements. Students must secure such permission before making any outside contractual or verbal engagement. Absences may not conflict with department rehearsals, concerts, and other such functions of the school. The School of Performing Arts does not intend to discourage professional opportunities; this policy simply ensures that the dancer’s primary focus of energy is his/her Wichita State University training.
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Dance Program Participation Policy
The WSU Dance Program requires an 80% participation rate for all studio classes. Students must dance in 24 out of the 30 meetings in classes that meet twice a week, and 36 out of the 45 meetings in classes that meet three times a week to earn credit for the course. Sitting and observing a class does not count as participation.
Participating for less than the full class time does not count as participation. Students who do not meet the participation requirement for any reason will receive a failing grade (unless they have withdrawn from the course) and will need to repeat the course.
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Dance Program Injury Policy
If a student is unable to participate in class or rehearsal due to injury, the student is required, in consultation with Dance Faculty, to seek medical advice within a ten-day time period.
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Student Rehearsal Requirements/ Department Policies for Class Attendance
Students are REQUIRED to attend at least one technique class the day of rehearsal. It is unsafe to rehearse without the body being aligned prior to rehearsal.
A student is considered excused from class and rehearsal for medical reasons and must communicate this information to the instructor/choreographer.
Absences from rehearsal, excused or not excused, may result in a dancer’s replacement in the dance work or changing of status in casting. The choreographer and/or Director of Dance will determine the amount of absences.
Exceptions may be considered for school-required activities, auditions, graduating seniors, summer study programs or family/health emergencies. Students must gain approval from the Director of Dance and/or faculty at least four weeks prior to participation in non-departmental activities with the exception of family/health emergencies.
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