Major

Dance

Overview

The Dance program at Illinois State University offers an intensive, individualized and performance-based approach connecting theory with practice. We provide a challenging yet nurturing environment that prepares students for careers in performance, choreography, teaching, and for future post-graduate study. The program is supported by a diverse and ambitious nationally recognized faculty, bringing a wide variety of movement styles and philosophies to the program.

Students in the Dance sequence take an extensive range of courses that emphasize different aspects of dance training and creativity within the fine and performing arts. Dancers will develop their intellectual and artistic abilities through coursework that includes choreography and improvisation, dance history, multicultural perspectives, dance kinesiology and somatic practices. Additionally, students have opportunities to study abroad, work with a variety of guest artists, and to network with Illinois State alumni working in the field.

Students will experience a variety of diverse performance opportunities alongside a strong and comprehensive curriculum. Illinois State Dance Theatre is the pre-professional dance company supported by the School of Theatre, Dance, and Film that offers students consistent performance opportunities to work with nationally recognized faculty and guest artists each school year. The program sponsors Dance Association, a registered student organization that offers weekly workshops, supports guest teachers, and produces the annual Dance Inventions Student Choreographed Concert. Students are also involved in theatrical productions within the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts, as well as touring productions of faculty and guest artists' work on a regional and national level.

Point of Pride

The Dance sequence offers an intensive, individualized and performance-based approach preparing students for a variety of careers in performance, choreography, teaching, and future post-graduate study.

Why study Dance?

The Dance program is supported by a diverse and ambitious faculty who embrace a wide variety of movement styles and philosophies. They are committed to nurturing the technical and artistic potential of each student. Our Dance teachers are nationally recognized practicing artists, scholars and arts administrators. Their creative activities further enhance their instruction in the Dance program while providing strong connections within the field, both professionally and academically.

Schedule a Visit

Come see campus and meet with campus representatives either in person or virtually. Optional chances to meet with academic department, honors, and financial aid.

How to Apply

Applying to Illinois State

Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. Start your application today!

Audition and Enrollment Process

  1. Apply to Illinois State University
  2. Choose an audition/interview date
  3. Upload any required materials to your application
  4. Receive a confirmation email from School of Theatre, Dance, and Film
  5. Attend audition/interview
  6. Receive a decision within two weeks
  7. Submit your enrollment deposit and become a Redbird

Scholarship notification will take place the first week of March.

If you would like to audit a class, meet with faculty, or if you have a question about the enrollment process, email Cristen Monson.

Program Requirements

Students seeking admission to the School of Theatre, Dance, and Film begin by applying for admission to the University, using the regular admissions procedure. When you fill out your admission application form, you will also select a date for a Dance Program audition. More information about this process is outlined below. (If you later need to change your selected date, please contact the School of Theatre, Dance, and Film, Cristen Monson.)

2024-2025 Audition Dates and Information

Saturday November 8, 2024  (Chicago National Dance Masters must be registered with the festival to attend) 
Saturday December 7, 2024  (Illinois State) 
Saturday February 22, 2025  (Illinois State)
Saturday April 5, 2025  (Illinois State) 

Requirements for Dance Program Consideration

  1. Dancers will attend class in our studio and be evaluated.
  2. Dancers will perform a solo 2-3 minutes in length and can feature the choreography of the applicant or another choreographer
  3. Photo in motion
  4. Performance resume
  5. Interview with faculty

Deadlines and Review Dates

Students are accepted into the Dance major within the School of Theatre, Dance, and Film on a rolling basis, contingent on admission by Illinois State University. Normally students are notified within two weeks of their audition results.

School of Theatre, Dance, and Film scholarship awards are announced after March 1.

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