Last week, six undergraduate Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD) students visited George Mason University (GMU) for an in-person international exchange. The NSCD students were fully immersed into the dance programme at GMU, and experienced other opportunities to see arts performances, and visit cultural sites in the nation's capital.
NSCD has spent the last 12 months collaborating with students at GMU based in Virginia, USA. The partnership began in 2024 and was established to allow cross Atlantic remote technique class delivery in which an NSCD lecturer taught a group in person at NSCD, whilst students at GMU joined the class remotely. These sessions have been delivered on a monthly basis with the aim of exploring UK versus USA dance training, industry similarities and differences, and helping students from both academic institiuions to expand their creative horizons and gain a global perspective on dance education.
Matthew Slater, Head of Undergraduate Studies at NSCD remarked:
"The opportunity to go and visit the dance and teaching facilities and campus of George Mason University is something people can only dream of. We are lucky enough here at NSCD to be able to partner and show our students dance life and culture outside of the UK in the USA. The trip was a fantastic way to learn cross teaching methods, but had a tough schedule for the students to follow. As well as being able to take in the life of an American student, NSCD students were afforded the experience to expand their horizons. We were able to open up the world to show just how creative partnerships not only work, but offer fulfilling chances to expand and improve their own dance experience."
Shaun Boyle D’Arcy, Associate Professor at GMU commented:
“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome the talented students from Northern School of Contemporary Dance to [George] Mason’s School of Dance! It’s inspiring to see our UK visitors so deeply engaged in our curriculum, sharing their artistry, exploring our campus and national landmarks, and building meaningful connections with our students — a true celebration of our partnership!”
A reciprocal visit is planned for GMU students to visit NSCD in Leeds in June 2026.
Applications for NSCD's undergraduate courses are open for 2026 entry. Find out more about how to apply here.
