Dancers learn how to use their bodies and physical strength as a means of artistic expression. To encourage this, Thacher’s dance program is co-ed and combines ballet, modern, and jazz techniques.

As part of the Afternoon Program in the fall, dance offers students (many of them beginners) the chance to learn about this art form without the pressure of performance. Students learn or improve basic techniques and grow to understand dance elements, as well as learn combinations of steps in all three genres.

The student repertory group, Dance Ensemble, is an extracurricular offering during the Fall and Winter sports seasons, then part of the Afternoon Program in the spring. Students may audition for Dance Ensemble at any one of three junctures during the year.

The group practices three days a week and performs on Family Weekend in October, at the Holiday Concert in December, and at Big Gymkhana Family Weekend in May. Dancers strengthen their technique, growing in their understanding that it is both an art form and an athletic endeavor. The choreography for performances is geared toward the group’s level of experience; it is often modern but can also range from classical ballet to jazz.

Students in Thacher’s dance program leave the School prepared to take part in any college dance department.