Welcome

A Welcome from the Co-Interim Directors

Welcome to the University of Arizona School of Dance and the 2026–2027 academic year!

We are honored and excited to serve as the Co-Interim Directors of the School of Dance during this new chapter. As proud alumni and faculty members with 35 years of combined service to this program, we feel deeply connected to the community that has shaped us as artists, educators, colleagues, and people. It is a privilege to help carry forward the legacy of this School while looking toward its future.

This season explores the theme Root to Rise, a reflection of where we come from, who we are, and where we are going. We are deeply grateful to the leaders who have built and strengthened the School of Dance. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Duane Cyrus for his visionary leadership. We also honor the enduring legacy of Jory Hancock and Melissa Lowe, whose passion and dedication helped establish the University of Arizona School of Dance as one of the nation’s premier dance programs.

At the heart of that legacy is a commitment to excellence in student academic success, artistic achievement, research, creative activity, and rigorous training. Our BFA students experience the discipline and intensity of a conservatory environment while benefiting from the extraordinary breadth of a R1, land grant research university. This combination is one of our greatest strengths.

Our dancers are encouraged to immerse themselves fully in their art while also taking advantage of the many opportunities available across the University of Arizona. Many pursue double degrees, minors, and areas of study beyond dance, creating meaningful connections across disciplines. Through these experiences, as well as master works, guest artists, research, and performance opportunities, we continue to support the development of curious, adaptable, and well rounded artists.

Our students remain at the center of everything we do. Together with our faculty and staff, we are committed to fostering technical and academic excellence, artistic curiosity, collaboration, wellness, and an inclusive environment where every student can discover their unique voice and potential. In an increasingly competitive dance field, we want our graduates to leave the School of Dance prepared to build sustainable careers, pursue meaningful opportunities, and thrive as artists and professionals.

As we look toward the year ahead, we are reminded that growth begins with knowing and honoring our roots. Root to Rise captures the spirit of this moment: grounded in the people, artistry, relationships, traditions, and excellence that have shaped the School of Dance while reaching toward new ideas, collaborations, and generations of artists.

We are honored to be part of this next chapter and excited to support the continued growth, creativity, research, and success of our students.

Rooted in legacy. Rising together.

With gratitude,

Tamara Dyke-Compton
Co-Interim Director

Elizabeth George
Co-Interim Director

OUR MISSION
The University of Arizona School of Dance is redefining the landscape for Dance education. We integrate
innovative pedagogy, intensive learning experiences, interdisciplinary methods, diverse technical training,
and next-generation technology to shape a new era of dance. We are committed to cultivating visionary
artists and scholars who will pioneer artistic and cultural shifts worldwide.