First-year MFA students enroll in this course to fulfill the graduate performance requirement. Enrollment in DAN 505 takes place in the same semester as the performance. The requirement is met by participating in the choreography of a Five College Dance Department faculty member (including guest artists) or an MFA thesis. Students must attend the respective auditions.

This course examines issues related to musician health and wellness, including musculoskeletal health, hearing conservation, vocal care, psychological well-being, and performance-related injury prevention. Participants will explore current research in performing arts medicine, examine their own self-use through participation in the somatic practice of the Feldenkrais Method, and develop strategies and applications to implement in their own teaching.

This interdisciplinary one-credit course will focus on the incorporation of energy harvesting piezoelectric technology to create a prototype for a lighted walkway. Piezoelectric technology transforms mechanical energy into electricity. This project seeks to create an interactive walkway that is activated by pedestrians in an artistic and engaging way. The course will offer opportunities for hands-on experimentation and development of ideas.