Training and Preparation Requirements
Students wishing to study Dance at Colorado Mesa University should have some prior training and experience in dance techniques and performance including (but not limited to) skills in ballet, jazz, modern, tap and hiphop. Additional skills in improvisation, choreography, composition and dance science are also highly beneficial.
Written Requirements
AUDITION APPLICATION
Prospective students wishing to attend one of our on-campus audition dates or those submitting an audition video must complete our on-line audition application. When submitted, the application must include an attached headshot and resume. If auditioning via video, a link to the video must be included on the form.
RESUME AND HEADSHOT
Applicants must submit a resume detailing training, performance, choreographic, and teaching experience in dance and/or theatre/music. Resume and headshots should be submitted with the on-line audition application.
TRANSCRIPT
An official high school transcript is required by the Department of Theatre Arts for all incoming students. (This is in addition to the one required by the Admission Office.) Transfer students must provide transcripts from all colleges attended. Bring copies with you to the morning check-in on the day of your audition. Please do not staple or bind these documents. These materials will not be returned.
Performance Requirements
TECHNIQUE CLASS
All applicants must participate in an intermediate/advanced technique class. Typically this will be a contemporary dance class, but applicants will be given notice if a different style of dance will be taught. Students are welcome to observe or participate in other technique/lecture courses on their audition date with approval from faculty.
SOLO PERFORMANCE
Following the technique class, applicants will perform a solo no longer than 3 minutes. This solo can be in any style of dance and should highlight the applicant’s strengths. The solo can be self-choreographed or choreographed by someone else. Please bring music on iPhone/laptop or CD.
INTERVIEW/Q&A
Following the solo presentation, applicants will participate in a brief interview with faculty and have the opportunity to ask questions.
If there is a theatre/dance production that evening, all applicants are invited to attend.
VIDEO SUBMISSION
While in-person auditions are highly preferred, those applicants who need to audition via video, should submit a video that includes classwork in several styles of dance (i.e. ballet barre, across the floor combinations, floor work, etc). Applicants are also required to submit a video of a solo performance no longer than 3 minutes. This solo can be in any dance style, self choreographed or choreographed by someone else, but ideally should highlight the applicant’s strengths. Faculty may be in contact for a follow-up interview.