An inside look into MMDG's Summer Intensive

Students in Mark Morris’ Summer Intensive composition class.

©Beowulf Sheehan

Summer is quickly approaching and, for many young pre-professional dancers, this is the time to take advantage of the myriad opportunities to further develop their professional and artistic growth. Professional level summer intensives are one of the best ways to work in depth with established dance companies and choreographers. Not sure if a summer intensive is right for you? Check out our informative blog post to answer your questions. 

A little bit about us and what we do: Formed in 1980, Mark Morris’ internationally-renowned Mark Morris Dance Group (MMDG) has received “highest praise for their technical aplomb, their musicality, and their sheer human authenticity.” (Bloomberg News). Live music and community engagement are vital components of the Dance Group. MMDG has toured with its own musicians, the MMDG Music Ensemble, since 1996, and regularly collaborates with orchestras and opera companies around the world. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a professional dancer, the Mark Morris Dance Group Summer Intensive is a great place to start. Here are some ways our summer intensive is different from other options out there.  

• The Mark Morris Dance Group Experience- During our two-week intensive, you will explore various classes in ballet and modern techniques and perform an excerpt of Mark Morris’ repertory. You get the opportunity to dance alongside current and former company members and learn from their experience. Morris’ teaching style allows his dancers to interact and feed off of one another. That sense of comradery is what we celebrate here at MMDG. 

• Musicality- All of Mark Morris’ works are accompanied by live music. In addition to taking dance technique classes, you will also explore music theory and singing. You will get a deeper sense of musicality by working directly with Mark Morris and Colin Fowler, MMDG’s Music Director, in music composition. Throughout the  intensive, you will dance with live musical accompaniment in all classes.    

• Networking- If you have questions about anything career related, our dancers are here to guide you. Not only will you be dancing and learning Mark Morris’ repertory, but you will also participate in music seminars, panel discussions, and lectures. Networking with current and former company members allows for constructive feedback so you can improve and grow as a dancer. 

• Flexibility and Convenience – At an affordable price, this intensive is designed for pre-professional dancers who are ready to have a career in dance. We are conveniently located in downtown Brooklyn. If you are an out-of-state dancer, Long Island University- Brooklyn campus offers affordable housing and it’s just three blocks away from the Dance Center.   

Many of our company members attended our intensive before they auditioned for the Mark Morris Dance Group. By attending, you will gain valuable experience by learning Morris’ approach to dance and music, which is very beneficial for dancers looking to audition with the company. There are still spots open for this year’s intensive. Be sure to submit your audition video and apply by May 28.