HomeAudition and Portfolio RequirementsDance Audition Requirements

Dance Audition Requirements

Applicants to the Dance BFA are required to complete an audition as part of the admission process. Your audition allows us to learn about your technical foundation, artistic expression, creative potential and commitment to dance. If you are applying to the Dance BA, an audition is not required, and admission is based on Cornish’s standard application requirements.

You may audition in person on campus or submit a recorded video audition through the Portfolio section of your Redhawk Admissions Portal after submitting your application.

Audition Requirements

  1. Two Choreographed Solos

    Submit two choreographed solos in two different dance styles, approximately 1-2 minutes each.

    Styles may include, but are not limited to:

    • Western Concert Dance: Contemporary, Modern, Ballet, Concert Jazz
    • Africanist Dance Forms: West African, Street Styles, Hip Hop, Authentic Jazz
    • International Dance Forms: Folklórico, Butoh, Spanish Dance, Balkan Dance, Bharatanatyam, and other cultural dance traditions

    Solos may be choreographed by a professional choreographer, dance teacher, or by you. Please identify the choreographer for each solo in your portfolio materials. If music is used, please provide the title and the artist/composer.

  2. Improvisation

    Submit a 1–2 minute movement improvisation that explores:

    • Time: slow, fast, and stillness
    • Space: levels, direction changes, and traveling through space
    • Movement Qualities: varied textures and dynamics

    This may be presented as a solo, duet, or group improvisation. If performing with others, please ensure that you are clearly identifiable and visible throughout the video.

    You may use any dance style or combination of styles.

    Music is optional, but if using music, please provide the title and the artist/composer.

  3. Optional Original Choreographic Work

    If you have original choreographic work you have made for others (solo, duo, group), you may submit one sample of up to 5 minutes in length.

Video Guidelines

  • Keep your entire body visible throughout the recording.
  • Wear attire that allows your movement to be clearly seen, that you feel comfortable in, and that you feels represents your chosen dance style.
  • Avoid backlighting.
  • Record in a space that allows for safe and unrestricted movement.
  • If possible, have someone else record your video who can clearly capture and document your movement.
  • Upload all audition materials to the Portfolio section of your Redhawk Admissions Portal after submitting your application.