Frequently Asked Questions
Degree and Courses
What is the difference between the BA and BFA tracks?
The main difference between these tracks is the amount of classes required to complete the degree. Everyone takes the same “base level” courses that go into the BA degree and then BFA is similar to an emphasis or specialty in other majors that requires extra classes such as Drama 30, Lighting Design, etc. Check out the requirements in the UCI registrar by following the links below.
BA course requirements: https://catalogue.uci.edu/clairetrevorschoolofthearts/departmentofdance/dance_ba/#requirementstext
BFA course requirements: https://catalogue.uci.edu/clairetrevorschoolofthearts/departmentofdance/dance_bfa/#requirementstext
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Who do I meet with if I need help with enrollment, unit increase requests, scheduling, etc.?
All of these questions and more can be directed to our Arts Academic Counselors. We recommend reaching out to the Director of Student Affairs, Amy Kim at amykim@uci.edu. You can also head to the website page (https://www.arts.uci.edu/student-affairs-advising) to join a live chat or find out more information on who you can meet with!
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Are there any examples of four year plans for dance majors available?
Yes! The CTSA website has SAMPLE schedules of all three tracks: BA, BFA Choreo, and BFA Performance. Keep in mind that everyone's schedule will look different and that there are SO MANY different routes to take. These are just examples of what has worked for some people.
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What is the difference between “Shop Crew” and “Show Crew” for Drama101?
Shop Crew is typically a full quarter worth of work that involves weekly meetings like that of a normal class. For example, you could meet every Monday for shop from 1-2pm. It includes: production studio, costume, prop, electrics, and audio shops.
Show Crew is different in that the projects happen during tech and show weeks. These tend to be longer hours in the theater, but for only 2 weeks at a time. For example, you could be called to be in the space from 5pm-11pm during New Slate tech Monday through Thursday nights. These include scenic, costume, stage management, audio, and electrics crew.
For more information check out the drama callboard website here: https://sites.uci.edu/callboard/drama-101-crew/
Classroom environment
Grading
For grading in dance techniques please refer to the syllabus for your individual courses. Each professor has different rubrics and syllabi so make sure that you are paying attention to what is required of you.
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What do I do if I am injured?
If you are experiencing an injury, please communicate with your professors first and foremost, communication is key! From there you will be guided on next steps and communicating with the professors will help you to get on the right track for you. Listen to your body and make mindful decisions!
Is there a way I can check my attendance?
Yes! By going to the course's canvas page, assignments, and then opening up the “Roll Call Attendance” assignment, you will see something similar to what is shown below. While this is available, we HIGHLY recommend keeping track of your own absences. It is always a good idea to send an email confirmation of any absent/late/modified class dates to your professors at the end of the quarter to make sure everything is accurately inputed.
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Other
If I need accommodation, who do I reach out to?
First, reach out to your professor either in person or via email. They are very open-minded and will work with you to make something work. If you have further needs such as, a specific medical or disability concern, you can contact the Student Health Center at (949) 824-5301 and/or Disability Services Center (DSC) at dsc@uci.edu or the DSC Front Desk at (949) 824-7494. If facing any other additional stressors, you can contact Campus Social Work at campussocialworker@uci.edu or (949) 824-0101.
Where is the nearest dance store?
Atomic Dancewear is a 10 minute drive from campus located at 17961 Sky Park Cir Bld 38-J, Irvine, CA 92614.
What are department show auditions like? What should I wear?
Auditions involve check-in starting an hour prior, followed by dancers completing a self warm-up. Typically, there are three-four genres (ballet, modern, jazz, hip hop), but it can vary depending on what choreographers are looking for. Look for the dates sent out by the department and plan ahead. Make sure you are bringing all required materials and clothes that you feel confident in, while staying within the requested dress code
A typical dress code could look like the following:
TOP: leotard or a form-fitting top or t-shirt
BOTTOMS: Black, pink, or flesh-toned full-length tights for ballet; leggings or pants for other styles
HAIR: Securely fastened/pinned up/ out of your face