DANCE 4110
ENSEMBLE
Fall 2008
Instructor: Teresa Chapman
Dancing has existed at all times, and among all people and races. The dance is a form of
expression given to man just as speech, philosophy, painting or music. In short, the
dance, like every other artistic expression, pre-supposes a heightened, increased life
response.
-Mary Wigman
Office: Wortham 133B
Office Phone: 713.743.2917
Email: tlchappy@hotmail.com
Office Hours: by appointment
Course Description:
The UH ENSEMBLE, formed in 1992, is the University of Houston’s preprofessional performing dance company. UH ENSEMBLE offers students the
opportunity to practice performance skills, challenging them both technically and
creatively. Students will perform works choreographed by nationally recognized
guest artists. Numerous performances are held throughout the year on campus
and in the community. In addition, students are also required to attend the
American College Dance Festival March 11-15, 2009 in College Station.
Learning Outcomes:
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Practice and develop performance skills
Increase understanding of contemporary modern dance by working with leading
choreographers
Extend capability for observing, learning and reproducing choreography with
accuracy and commitment
Pre-requisites:
1. Membership by audition
2. Enrollment in Advanced Technique & Theory, DAN 4302 (the ENSEMBLE
may accept apprentices who are in Level II for the 2008-2009 season)
3. Signed contract for the ENSEMBLE 2008-2009 season
ENSEMBLE Rehearsal Schedule:
Mondays & Wednesdays: 4-6pm Melcher 230
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 11:30-1pm WT 207
Fridays: 1-5pm Melcher 230
Attendance Policy:
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2 absences allowed for illness or death in the family
3rd absence: Dismissal from ENSEMBLE (drop DAN 4110)
Tardiness will not be permitted
Sign in on attendance board at each rehearsal
Grading:
Grades will be based on fulfillment of the contract and assessment of the
instructor and guest artists regarding consistent positive participation.
*Students in a degree granting plan for Dance at the University of Houston must
meet the GPA protocol for the School of Theatre: Students who receive below a
2.5 grade in a major/minor/cert class will be placed on probation. Student must
re-take class and complete with a minimum 2.5 grade. Please see the hand-out on
GPA protocol for majors.
Required Materials:
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Calendar (bring to all rehearsals to update)
Notebook (for choreography notes)
Water for rehearsals (re-hydrate in rehearsal process)
Appropriate rehearsal attire: no jewelry, hair up/off face, no hats or other
accessories unless specified by the choreographer. Baggy rehearsal clothes are
discouraged.
NO GUM CHEWING IN REHEARSALS
TURN OFF ALL CELL PHONES IN REHEARSALS
I look forward to working with you all this semester!
Teresa Chapman
***This syllabus is subject to modification at the instructor’s discretion***