The Saint Mary's School Dance Program was established in 1938 and continues a legacy of giving girls the chance to explore and develop their creative and expressive potential through the study of dance. The program is designed to build a student's confidence, teach responsibility, develop expressive communication, foster an ability to work independently and collaboratively.
At the core of Saint Mary’s School dance program is solid technical training in ballet and modern. In addition, a range of dance and movement classes combine to create an extensive program encouraging creative exploration and supporting physical and mental wellness.
Performance opportunities are also a key component of dance at Saint Mary’s. Orchesis Dance Theatre, Saint Mary’s invitation-only dance company performs twice a year in historic Pittman Auditorium. A professional and experienced dance faculty provides exceptional training at every level.
Dance classes are conducted in one of three dance studios. All studios are equipped with sprung floor systems, “marley” covered surfaces and mirrored walls. When possible, modern dance technique classes are accompanied by a professional dance accompanist. Dance students are able to participate in master classes offered by area guest artists in disciplines such as jazz, hip-hop, ballet, modern, yoga, African, Indian, as well as general conditioning, kinesiology, nutrition and aerobics.
Applications are now open for the Young Women's Leadership Institute (YWLI) at Saint Mary's School. This all-girls, two-week elite summer camp--in partnership with Duke University--is a certificate program designed to empower high school girls through extensive leadership training and skills enhancement.