Participants may live off-campus and commute each day.

It is not necessary to have a car while staying on campus. Participants can walk to all areas of the campus easily and use Athens Public Transitto access local amenities. If parking on campus, participants must purchase either a commuter or overnight parking pass. View campus mapas a guide.

Yes, students who choose to stay on-campus will share a room with one other participant. Students may request a roommate in advance.

Minors and adults will be housed in separate halls. 

All students staying in residence on campus are automatically enrolled in our meal plan for the duration of your stay, which provides for all meals at our campus cafeterias and allows participants to explore Uptown Athens by visiting several local restaurants. Meals include healthy, fresh options for all dietary needs.

We encourage all participants to register for the full program in order to take advantage of all that the Summer Dance Institute has to offer! For those whose schedules do not allow full participation we are now offering a single week registration option as well as daily drop-ins for morning technique classes and full-day sessions. Please use the registration link at the top of the page to select the option that best fits your schedule.

Students may be divided according to age range and technical ability. If any adjustments are necessary, the workshop faculty or staff will speak to the dancers individually.

Each day begins with a morning technique class taught by David Dorfman and company members followed by repertory and elective courses such as composition with breaks in between. Each day ends with nightly activities including DDD rehearsals to observe, improv jams, and wellness workshops. 

The program will host nightly events that may include open company rehearsals, a lecture or demonstration from the company, dance movies, wellness and nutrition seminars, improv jams, etc.

In morning technique, Dorfman’s technique focuses on musicality, muscular dynamics, and momentum while drawing on somatic practices to invigorate and inform the body all while encouraging community through dance.

In composition, students will study choreography as social and personal commentary working through text, partnering, improvisation, and more. 

In repertory, selections of David Dorfman's works will be taught as aids in broadening individual performing range. Exposure to these dances will provide a common basis for the study and discussion of different aspects of the choreographic process.

Regarding clothes: enough dancewear to get through one week (laundry facilities in dorms), umbrella, a light jacket/sweatshirt, and clothes to wear to performance (can be informal). Campus recreation facilities are available to participants so you may choose to bring additional athletic clothing including a swimsuit and towel.

Regarding health and wellness: prescription, over the counter medicine, or any necessary toiletries (there is a CVS within walking distance).  

Regarding miscellaneous items: personal electronics and chargers, alarm clock, journal, yoga mat or large towel, knee pads, and water bottle. 

You may choose to bring your own linens (extra-long twin sheets, blanket, pillow, towels) or select the add-on linen package with the housing and meal plan. (If you do not have an extra-long twin sheet set, two flat sheets of another size will fit the mattresses).

Regarding important items: health insurance information, bankcard or cash for two weeks (several ATM machines within walking distance).

There is free guest wifi access across campus.

There are plenty of things to do and see on the Ohio University campus and in the surrounding Athens area. Take a walk to Court Street to visit local restaurants, bakeries, shops, and cafés as well as see open mic nights, spoken word, and local musicians. Spend time on the College Green enjoying a picnic with friends. Take a hike on one of the many trails Athens has to offer. 

Visit Athens County website for more ideas and information!