Pictured: Dance students at George Mason University's School of Dance perform - credit Tim Coburn
NSCD is delighted to announce a partnership with George Mason University’s (GMU) School of Dance in Virginia, USA which aims to enhance artistic and academic exchange, foster innovation and promote knowledge sharing.
The partnership, which begins in academic year 2024/25, represents a shared interest from both institutions in fostering creativity and academic excellence and marks a significant step forward in bridging the worlds of contemporary dance and higher education.
Both institutions are renowned for their dedication to excellence in dance training and academic research. In addition, both institutions’ strategic visions encourage collaboration with business, alumni, and community partners. This common goal of collaboration provides opportunities for joint projects, research and cultural exchange initiatives which will benefit students and faculty teaching staff.
A central component of this partnership is the robust exchange of knowledge, ideas, and cultures. Students from both NSCD and GMU can look forward to exchange programs (starting virtually), joint research projects, and collaborative performances. These initiatives are designed to foster a deeper understanding of different cultural and educational perspectives, making the academic and artistic journey even more exciting and fulfilling for everyone involved. Exciting contrasts between the respective dance programmes and disciplines will also provide unique opportunities for enriching knowledge exchange between the UK and USA.
Innovation is also at the core of this partnership. Joint projects will encourage experimental approaches and new methodologies, helping to push the field forward and inspire the next generation of dancers and scholars.
Matthew Slater, Interim Head of Undergraduate Studies at NSCD, commented:
"We are thrilled to embark on this collaborative journey with George Mason University. This partnership will not only enhance the educational experiences of our students and faculty but also contribute significantly to the discourse in contemporary dance and academic research."
Shaun D’Arcy, Assistant Professor, George Mason University School of Dance, echoed these sentiments:
"This partnership with NSCD aligns perfectly with our mission to foster innovation and excellence in the arts. We look forward to the many opportunities this collaboration will bring for our students and faculty."
Both the NSCD and GMU School of Dance prioritise fostering diverse and inclusive environments. This mutual value serves as a strong foundation for collaborative efforts, enhancing diversity in education and the arts.
Through the partnership of the future, we would like to explore further possibilities including:
