Performing arts program at Lees-McRae announces dance studio renovations

The Lees-McRae College performing arts program is excited to announce the renovation of the program’s dance studio. The renovations were completed in March and made possible by generous donors Dana and Vicki McKittrick and the support of Lees-McRae Summer Theatre.

Originally designed for clogging, the studio’s low ceilings prevented dancers from performing leaps or lifts. With general upgrades and the newly raised ceiling, the renovated dance space now features added headroom.

Students are already taking advantage of the renovated space in ways they were unable to before. “For me personally, the studio renovation is a blessing because I don't have to hold back when I dance. I can fully extend my arms and perform inversions and leaps with confidence now,” said senior musical theatre major Hayden Moses.

“We've been hoping for many years to improve the dance studio space and make it more conducive to student learning and to our summer theatre rehearsal process, and this renovation does just that,” stated Dr. Michael Hannah, program coordinator of the musical theatre BFA program. “Structurally it's not a massive change, but practically it enhances the instructional experience for our students and faculty."

Lees-McRae offers various programs for those interested in theatre and performance, including performing arts studies, musical theatre and theatre arts education. For more information about performing arts at Lees-McRae, visit lmc.edu/pa or contact Danielle Curtis, interim chair of the division of creative and fine arts, at curtisd@lmc.edu.