The Four Week School (FWS) immerses students in an intergenerational and international community of dance, providing a fun yet intensive program of study designed to meet the needs of mature students ages 12 to 16. Students take three classses each day, four days a week, and participate in special workshops and master classes offered by guest artists on Wednesdays and weekends. Classes include modern, ballet, hip-hop, African dance styles, composition, and repertory.

The focus of this program is to expose students to a wide range of dance styles and techniques. Instructed by an outstanding faculty, students at all levels work to increase their technical and expressive capabilities in a positive and supportive environment. Students are encouraged to work together and are challenged to think in new ways across stylistic boundaries. Technique, repertory, composition, and improvisation classes provide the basis for young dancers to develop.

Learning experiences go beyond the studio: students have the unique opportunity to view performances by many of the most outstanding dancers and choreographers working today. Students attend performances by all visiting companies, both in the ADF subscription series and informal performances. Scheduled museum visits, music classes, and panel discussions involving the legendary and cutting-edge forces in modern dance provide a rich atmosphere for inquiry. Young dancers become aware of the breadth and depth of the contemporary dance world.

DETAILS

HOUSING
FWS Students will live in an air-conditioned dormitory on Duke’s East Campus. These are double rooms, although in special circumstances single rooms are available on a limited basis. Experienced counselors will live in the dormitory with the students. A curfew and lights-out policy will be enforced.

BOARD
Meals will be provided by Duke University Food Service. For students staying in the dormitories, the cost for three meals a day is included in room and board fees. Commuting students may purchase a Lunch Meal Plan or a Flex Food Account that will allow them to eat meals in the cafeteria.

COUNSELORS
Outside of class, students will be well supervised by carefully selected counselors.