The ASFA Dance Department curriculum is currently grounded in the philosophy of the Revolutionary Principles of Movement (RPM). RPM focuses on research-based kinesiology while emphasizing the inherent joy of movement and self-expression in dance. Multiple dance forms, repertoire and somatic practice round out the class offerings and a registered physical therapist and nutritionist are on staff. Juniors and seniors take a professional dance practicum which includes dance history, composition, a broad survey of the field investigating career and higher education opportunities, and essential elements of production. Senior year culminates in a unique student-created and choreographed performance.
https://rpm.dance
Value Statement (updated Fall 2023)
The ASFA Dance Department is a pre-professional training program reflective of the 21st century and the call for a more open learning environment. Rooted in research-based kinesiology, the curriculum is grounded in the philosophy of the Revolutionary Principles of Movement (RPM). RPM’s inclusive nature creates an empowering setting that amplifies individual voices to become kinetically aware movers and critically thinking dance artists.
Current Courses
Dance Elective
Intro to Movement and Dance is a basic but enriching class for any skill level or experience in dance. It is a hands-on and interactive way of learning movement and awareness of the body. This class provides a behind-the-scenes look and interaction with dance. In this class you will experience ballet and modern technique, dance history from its ancient beginnings to present day, mime, yoga, improvisation and improved coordination. Besides moving, this class will use books and videos for instruction. Through zoom you will interact with industry professionals and have opportunities to see dance performances in the community. This experience will give you a wider dance skill set, as well as a greater appreciation and understanding of dance.
Modern Technique with Margi Cole
Margi's technique class is designed to emphasize conditioning, coordination, alignment, clarity, rhythm, and artistry. All of this is best achieved through and with honest effort. Informed by her training in classical ballet, Limon, Cunningham, Graham and release-based technique, she calls this self-assembled eclectic technique the “Margi Style”. Class starts on the floor and continues with exercises standing and moving across the floor. The class is designed around an infrastructure of principles that include articulation of the spine, finding the supporting leg, dropping your weight, changing direction, falling through space, and efficiently moving in and out of the floor. These ideas are then further supported by the use of mixed rhythms, strong imagery and a desire to find the spaces in between really specific forms, which is where the real “dancing” is happening. CONTACT Margi email: mcole@asfaschool.org , phone extension 2267
Modern Contemporary Technique with Germaul Barnes
Mr Gee’s modern/contemporary dance class that introduces students to the fundamentals of the Barnes' fusion of movement styles utilizing the principles from Bill T. Jones, Milton Myers, Katherine Dunham, Ruth Anderiane and yoga practices. Dancers will focus on the ability in their relation to the floor, building power, fluidity, balance, and speed. With an additional focus on isometric conditioning and proper alignment, the class teaches dancers how to apply energy, efficiency, and accuracy to movement while reclaiming the JOY™ of dancing. The class begins with a comprehensive warm-up followed by exercises moving across the floor and finishes with combinations. CONTACT Mr. Gee email: gbarnes@asfashool.org , phone extension 2201
Ballet Technique
Classes are based upon traditional classical ballet and supported by the principles of Ruth Petrinović’s Revolutionary Principles of Movement. Age-appropriate exercises and enchaînements are designed to systematically build upon a basic understanding of the principles of ballet, firmly guiding and encouraging a student to develop the technical mastery needed for full artistic expression. Men’s Technique is incorporated into these classes specifically designed to enhance the physical strength, power, and brilliance of male identifying physicality with attention to elevation, pirouettes, and batterie. Pointe skills are offered to all dancers, focusing on correct technique through an appropriate and challenging vocabulary. The dancer learns all about the pointe shoe, including its use and care, as well as how to correctly stand en pointe. Increasingly difficult exercises are designed to build the dancers’ strength and agility necessary to perform the traditional classical and contemporary repertoire.
Rehearsal
Because dance is a performing art, ASFA dance believes our “stage is the best teacher”, dancers are involved in rehearsals a minimum of 6 hours a week in preparation for 3 main stage productions and numerous informal presentations throughout the year. Choreography is purposefully diversified to allow students to become familiar with various forms and styles of dance performance. Productions include works from the traditional ballet, modern repertory, and original works by resident or guest faculty. Pas De Deux/Partnering, Variations and Repertory are a valued part of the curriculum. Variations and Repertoire from a vast array of genres are taught and practiced. Dancers learn the skills to support both traditional and contemporary forms. Emphasis is placed upon the correct technique, accurate style, and appropriate interpretation of each piece of repertory.
Jr. PDP Description
Professional Dance Practicum-PDP taught by Mr. Gee (Germaul Barnes) examines the professional dance field by introducing students to dance history, composition, stage production, optional careers in dance, and continuing education research. Topics include but are not limited to:
- Choreography Tools
- Lighting Workshop
- College/University
- Vision Boards
- Dance on Film
- Dance History
- Careers in the Field
- Dance Critique
- Costume Construction
- Alumni Talks
- Field Trips
- Dance Pedagogy
- Global Perspectives
Sr. PDP Description
Professional Dance Practicum-PDP taught by Margi Cole is centered around a Senior Choreography Project. The class explores a broad range of topics related to the overall production of a new, fully produced work on the DJD stage. Other relative subject matter is explored over the course of the year. Topics include but are not limited to:
- Senior Choreography Production
- Dance Composition
- Collaboration
- Lighting Workshop
- College/University
- Research
- Application support
- Production Calendar
- Artists Resume/Statement
- Dance History
- Careers in the Field
- Directing and Auditioning
- Mentorship
- Alumni Talks
- An informal showing
- Project descriptions
- Current ideas and events in the field
Dancer Wellness
Classes in injury prevention and nutrition are offered to all dancers during the academic year. In addition, our physical therapist Lisa Altamirano, specifically trained to address the special needs of a dancer, visits the campus bi-weekly to monitor the dancer’s physical conditions.
https://www.myagilept.com/
Pilates
Pilates is a system of exercises that is based on six principles; breath, coordination, center, control, precision, and flow. Practicing Pilates can enhance strength and flexibility, as well as develop body awareness and improve alignment. Pilates for dancers is an excellent source of body conditioning, fostering cross-training and injury prevention.
Besides these courses students also receive instruction in other forms that include but are not limited to Jazz, Contemporary, Yoga, Dance Improvisation and Composition, Pointe, Partnering, West African and Hip Hop.
