Dance
Offered as a major (B.A.) and a minor
The Dance curriculum is a mix of foundational liberal arts approaches to dance which includes a mix of performance and foundational courses. Dancers may pursue their favorite styles of dance choosing from core styles: ballet, hip hop, contemporary dance and tap – 2 of which will be required per semester. Dance major graduates will go on to be principal dancers and choreographers in professional companies, studio owners, artistic directors, and teachers at private studios, while others will pursue advanced degrees.
Opportunities to Build Essential Skills
Through opportunities in- and out-of-the-classroom, you will develop creativity, confidence, and critical thinking skills while sharpening your purpose and potential. You will graduate from Saint Anselm ready for the exciting world of dance.
Studying dance develops creativity, teamwork, confidence, critical thinking, self-discipline, physical health and the ability to work collaboratively—all beneficial to any 21st-century career path and to one’s quality of life.
Dance Courses at saint anselm college
Ballet
Hip Hop
Tap
Dance Pedagogy
Contemporary Dance
Jazz
Choreography
Global Dance Styles and History
![Interior image of the Koonz theatre at Saint Anselm College](/sites/default/files/styles/responsive_8_5_300w/public/2024-02/crop-duplicate-1-for-20230614%20Dana%20Center%20KH042.jpg?h=28bb37e8&itok=ZHIiQYOw)
Facilities
Performance courses are in the Dana Center as well as the Carr Center. Our Dana Center features a 575-seat theatre as well as a dance room and spaces dedicated to music lessons.
Beyond the Classroom
Through a partnership with the Broadway Dance Center, students can spend a semester in New York City, N.Y. studying and performing dance.
![Stock photo of New York City skyline](/sites/default/files/styles/responsive_8_5_300w/public/2024-02/crop-duplicate-1-for-iStock-1452800406_0.jpg?h=e44f2c5c&itok=XRB6SnVz)
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
Aaron Tolson, Director of Dance
Originally from Manchester, Aaron Tolson has danced his way across 5 continents, been a featured soloist with "Riverdance," performed on Broadway and at Radio City Music Hall. Previously an instructor at The Boston Conservatory, he is teaching tap among other courses and is the Director of the Aaron Tolson Institute of Dance.
I believe in providing challenging and comprehensive instruction, while having fun. Dance teaches discipline and brings out your joy. There's nothing better than working in a profession you love that allows you to share joy with others.