The Dance Program at Loyola Marymount University is the embodiment of training for the versatile dancer. With groundbreaking career preparedness programs, we are creating the next generation of dance changemakers for careers in concert dance, commercial dance, dance education, dance science and other dance related careers. Located in the heart of Los Angeles, our program offers students direct access to top-tier training, innovative programs, and a vibrant professional network.
From the moment students arrive, they are immersed in creative and professional opportunities. Students can audition for department productions in their first semester and perform in main stage concerts each fall and spring, senior thesis concerts, student dance film festivals, and our annual Senior Industry and Concert Showcases.
We regularly bring in nationally and internationally recognized artists and agencies, including: A.I.M by Kyle Abraham, Cherice Barton, Sidra Bell, BODYTRAFFIC, MaryAnn Chavez, Tessandra Chavez, CONTRA-TIEMPO, Entity Contemporary Dance, Pat Taylor, Dana Wilson, Rennie Harris, Galen Hooks, Bill T. Jones, DaEun Jung, Dominique Kelley, Brian Nicholson, Marjani Forté-Saunders, Monika Felice Smith, Doug Varone, Versa-Style, Whyteberg, Wideman/Davis Dance, Phil Wright, Stephanie Zaletel, and agencies such as Bloc LA, Clear Talent Group, Go2Talent Agency, and MSA Agency.
At LMU, we value wellness as much as artistry. We have a licensed physical therapist and pilates specialists on staff, dedicated exclusively to our dance majors, to reduce injury risk and support healthy recovery.
We also offer innovative, equity-centered training programs, including the Community Dance Project, our touring dance company to local schools, the Equitable Commercial Dance Program, and a bicoastal partnership with the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company. These programs not only deepen artistic practice but also provide direct pathways into the professional dance world.
Our alumni go on to build meaningful and high-impact careers in performance, choreography, education, and beyond. Graduates have worked with companies and institutions such as the Radio City Rockettes, NW Dance Project, Urban Bush Women, bbmoves, Jacob’s Pillow and Movement Exchange. They have choreographed for and performed with Drake, Harry Styles, Usher, Madonna, Kim Petras, The Weeknd, Selena Gomez, Kali Uchis, Pharrell, Doechii, and more. Our alumni have also built successful careers in K–12 and higher education, as well as in dance medicine.
Rooted in LMU’s Jesuit and Marymount traditions, our program welcomes students from all backgrounds and encourages the development of the whole person. We are proud to offer a brave space where students can explore who they are, grow as artists, and prepare for lives of meaning and impact.
Taryn Vander Hoop
Chair, Department of Dance