The Hartt School's Dance Division is making leaps and bounds. For the fourth year in a row, Hartt Dance has been included in DanceUS.org's list of best college dance programs in the USA for 2022-2023. DanceUS.org is the leading portal for dance professionals, learners, and enthusiasts.
Artistic Director Stephen Pier shared his enthusiasm for this accolade. ‘It’s thrilling to have our program endorsed by DanceUS for the fourth year in a row! We are a small program with a large impact and this kind of recognition helps shine the light on the extraordinary work and excellence of our faculty, current students, and alumni in the field of Dance.”
The Hartt Dance Division offers students a vast array of transformative and impactful programs that develop and refine their skills. The rigorous conservatory-style curriculum lead by expert instruction from world renowned faculty and guest artists allows for a personalized approach and exposure to a larger field of dance related occupations.
The result for developing the performer, the teacher, and the creator is evident in recent performances by student and alumni. Noteworthy highlights that stretch near and far include:
- Current Hartt Dance students, Alli Tomsik and Kennedy Davidson, performed as guest artists with Ballet Hartford in a duet. Both students are in their third year at the University.
- Samantha Watson (’19) and Sydney Hitchell (’21) are performing with Island Moving Company, a classically trained contemporary ballet company in Newport, RI.
- In New York City, four Hartt alums took to the stage the past season. Eran Bugge (’05), Lisa Borres (’11), and Austin Kelly (’22) just completed their season with the Paul Taylor American Modern Dance Company at the David Koch Theater at Lincoln Center. As a member of the New York Theater Ballet, Hannah Davis (’22) recently had her New York debut.
- On the west coast, Jane Cracovaner ('13), was featured in a production of Seattle-based contemporary company, Whim W'him.
As the calendar year comes to a close, Hartt Dance can take a bow before confidently pirouetting on to their next accomplishments.
Stephen Pier, Artistic Director, Professor of DanceIt’s thrilling to have our program endorsed by DanceUS for the fourth year in a row! We are a small program with a large impact and this kind of recognition helps shine the light on the extraordinary work and excellence of our faculty, current students, and alumni in the field of Dance.