The dance-in-education program at Blair is directed by Clarissa Newby Phillips, dance educator, choreographer and entrepreneur, and is designed as an age appropriate introduction to the exciting world of dance. Students learn the basics of dance and the elements of movement through imagery and improvisation, rhythmical patterns, storytelling, usage of directions in space and enrichment workbook exercises.

As students continue their education in traditional dance forms, (modern, jazz, ballet) the focus shifts to technique, perfecting lines, increasing physical strength and flexibility while refining movement, gaining control of muscles and increasing mobility. Performing skills and forming artistic expression are also emphasized.

Recreational activities, art-related fun and games, along with thematic enrichment exercises, will be experienced. This curriculum is designed with the intent of increasing the understanding of the various forms of dance through creative and energetic play.

Trips to various artistic venues and performances will be experienced during the dance-in-education program. The purpose of the program is to provide exploration and insight on how dance relates to other arts disciplines and their appropriate artistic environments.

Showcases demonstrating the thematic experiences will be presented, providing an exhibition of how the dance-in-education curriculum ties into a production of the arts using dance, theater, art and music.

For more information on the dance program at Blair, please contact Clarissa Newby Phillips at ext. 5703 or by email at newbyc@blair.edu.

Upcoming Performance Information:
Spring Dance Concert
The Art Gallery: Of Picture and Prose
Thursday, May 15, 7:10 p.m.
DuBois Theatre, Armstrong-Hipkins Center for the Arts
The Blair Academy Dance Department, under the direction of Clarissa Newby Phillips, presents “The Art Gallery: Of Picture and Prose.” Choreographed by Clarissa Newby Phillips and Lian Facciani, the concert is based on the works of various artists, including Thierry Ona, Annie Lee and others, with music by artists such as Nina Simone, Lena Horne and Jose Miquel Wisnik.

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