Dear Educators,
We are excited to share a remarkable opportunity for students engaged in Street Dance Styles, African, Jazz, and Contemporary dance to earn extra credit. With your approval, instructors from various dance programs across the United States are invited to register for this extraordinary initiative. Rennie Harris University (RHU) is offering a fresh approach to traditional off-campus performance observations, independent studies, and extra credit assignments: students can participate in complimentary (free) lectures that delve into the rich tapestry of Hip-hop culture, Street Dance, Street Dance Theater, Theory, Hip-hop dance, and Afro-diasporic culture and dance.
Overview
Supported by the Mellon Foundation, these RHU lectures aspire to offer diverse learning experiences that explore the history, lineage, and future of Hip-hop and Street Dance culture. Conducted via Zoom every Monday evening from 6:00 to 7:00 PM Mountain Time, each course lasts for one month. The value of extra credit points awarded will be determined by the instructor at your university. Notably, four lectures comprise one course, and participants are expected to complete assigned reading, viewings, homework and attend all sessions associated with their selected course.
For instance, for example if a student enrolls in the upcoming course led by Professor Raphael Xavier from Princeton University titled “Theatrical Perspectives & Perceptions of Street Dance,” they must attend all four lectures. Students are permitted one absence; however, exceeding this limit will lead to an automatic lockout from the course. To facilitate learning, all lectures will be recorded and made available for one week following the conclusion of the course, allowing students to catch up on any missed sessions.
These lectures have featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including esteemed figures such as Dr. Brenda Dixon Gottschild, Dr. Tommy De Franz, Dr. Ama Wray, Dr. Ayo Walker, Pop Master Fable (former V.P. of the Rock Steady Crew, specializing in Popping), Buddha Stretch (Hip-hop and Music Theory expert), B-Boy Ynot (formerly of the Rock Steady Crew, focusing on Rocking and Breaking), Rennie Harris (an authority on Street Dance History), Cesar Valentino (Vogue specialist), and many more.
Submission Process
We strongly encourage universities to take advantage of this unique educational experience for their students. If you are interested in registering your students, please fill out the Interest Form with the names of interested students. RHU’s Managing Director will be your primary contact for all the necessary information regarding the lectures. Additionally, we will provide you with an attendance sheet for your records and for grading after the course concludes.
Thank you for considering this opportunity for your students. We look forward to your positive response!
Educators Form of Interest
Please leave us your information to contact you as soon as possible.