in-school programs
The In-School Program takes place during the school day and involves an entire grade level, placing the arts on an equal standing with math, science and social studies. Professional dancers and musicians trained in the methods of National Dance Institute (NDI): New York serve as teachers working closely with the school and its curriculum. At the end of the academic year, the children perform an original dance production for family, friends and the community.
Basic Structure
At our partner school, we enroll the entire 4th grade with more than 120 participating students. The program runs for most of the school year with the class participating once a week. Arts in Action classes are taught by three professional teaching artists: artistic director and choreographer, music director and assistant teacher. Throughout the year, special guests, like Jacques d'Amboise and other Master Teaching Artists from NDI, will assist with classes to further inspire the young dancers.
The children learn the basics of dance and how to prepare and focus mentally. They learn to listen and count music as well as learn discipline and teamwork. Next, they study choreography. Our teaching artists show them how the basic dance steps they have learned, linked together, produce a whole more powerful than its parts. In the final segment, they learn how dance used with other art forms tells a story and builds a community.
At the end of the program, the dancers will hold a performance for their entire school during the day and an evening performance for their parents, friends and members of the community showcasing what they have learned.
Theme
The Arts in Action artistic team work with a theme throughout the year which is integrated into our lessons and inspires the design and culminating performance. The theme is often relevant to the student's studies and allows the dancer to find creative new ways to learn. In 2008-09, the NC AIA theme will be Mexico, reflecting the new partnership between NDI and Conarte in Mexico City.
Residency Programs
Arts in Action will offer short term intensive programs to schools ranging from a one-day workshop to a month long residency specifically tailored to the schools needs. For more information, contact Lisa Van Deman at lvncaia@gmail.com.