An undergraduate major in dance is an excellent means of gaining in-depth knowledge of the art form and its related fields. History The University of Wisconsin-Madison Dance Program bears the proud distinction of being a leader and innovator in the field of dance. In 1926, under the guidance of Professor Margaret H'Doubler, UW-Madison became the first university to offer a degree program in dance. The Program has graduated many students who have gone on to lead and teach at other university dance programs and to become founders and members of our nation's foremost dance companies. Madison is a major center for dance in the Midwest and has a strong history of community patronage.
Several theaters are accessible for dance concerts, as are numerous environmental settings.
The Dance Program is situated in historic Lathrop Hall on University Avenue. Renovation to improve studios and facilities for student, faculty, and professional works will soon be underway. The Dance Program regularly sponsors special master classes and workshops by prominent dancers and choreographers to augment class training, educate students on professional techniques, and allow students to interact personally with current leaders in the field. Recent master class teachers have included Bill T. Jones, Jawole Willa Jo Zollar of Urban Bush Women, Jan Erkert, Meredith Monk, Joe Chvala, and members of the David Parsons Dance Company, Ohio Ballet, Paul Taylor Dance Company, and Ko-Thi Dance Company. The Dance Program encourages students to attend area dance concerts and, whenever possible, presents or co-sponsors dance concerts and artists' residencies on campus.