"Beginning with the first breath and ending with the last, humans move, and from the expressive urges of that movement, dance is born. If life is movement, then the art of that movement is dance. "
Charles B. Fowler, Dance as Education

"Dance is thought made visible."
Alonso King, Director LinesBallet

What is Dance?
In every culture, dance uses movement to express and communicate myths, rituals, stories, beliefs, and information to others. Education in dance trains the student to use the body to convey meaning through the language of form, shape, rhythm, energy, space, and movement. Dance communicates in ways that are physical, visceral, affective, symbolic, and intellectual. Dance includes forms that are social and theatrical, sacred and secular, popular and esoteric, historical and contemporary: folk dance, ballet, modern dance, jazz, and tap.

What is the Mission of Dance at PVPA?
The mission of the Dance Department at PVPA is to expose and guide students in the study of dance as an art form and as a tool for health, education, entertainment, multicultural awareness and personal growth. The department serves two basic populations: those who are serious about dance as a possible future career, and those who wish to learn exciting and healthful ways to move their bodies. We offer a sequence of classes that train students from a beginner through more advanced level in a number of our dance forms, and provide performance outlets through informal showings and several dance companies.