
George Rowland White Performance Center
Address
201 Wood Street
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222
About George Rowland White Performance Center
The George Rowland White Performance Center, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a premier hub for dedicated dance training and artistic expression within the Conservatory of Performing Arts. Emphasizing a career-focused education, the center provides high-level, hands-on learning for aspiring professional dancers. Students benefit from small class sizes, averaging 15 to 20 individuals, and a supportive student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, guided by over 130 full-time faculty with extensive industry experience. The program nurtures a passion for dance alongside technical proficiency through a rigorous curriculum that includes Classical Ballet Technique, Pas de Deux, Men's Class, and Dance Composition. Teaching Artist Daniel Karasik, with a professional background including The Georgia Ballet and Dayton Ballet, brings invaluable performance and choreographic expertise. The center actively showcases versatile young artists through a dynamic season of performances, featuring inspirational choreography from renowned faculty and acclaimed guest artists. Programming highlights include the Student Choreography Project, showcasing diverse styles, the innovative Contemporary Choreographers event, and powerful Winter and Spring Dance Concerts. The Faculty Dance Concert presents an eclectic selection of ballet, contemporary, and jazz pieces. Specific concentrations, such as jazz, and interests in musical theatre, underscore the program's preparation for diverse professional dance opportunities. Students develop their quality of movement, musicality, and performative energy, fostering confidence and readiness for the professional world.
Styles offered at George Rowland White Performance Center
Programs from George Rowland White Performance Center
98 programs available
Classes
B.A. in dance, jazz concentration
I chose Point Park because of the range of talented and intelligent faculty, the city environment of the campus and the success rates of graduating seniors. Point Park prepares you for the real world. You will train with choreographers from all around the world and you are expected to be no less professional than a dancer in a professional dance company.
B.F.A. in dance, jazz concentration
My favorite experience at Point Park was becoming so close to my peers and being able to share dance with them every day. I would recommend Point Park because I feel that in the four years I was there I became a completely different dancer and a person.
B.A. in dance, dual concentration in jazz and modern
My advice to today's students would be to take advantage of the many different teachers and styles of dance offered in the program. Push yourself, talk to your teachers and choreographers about their own experiences, and try to become as well-rounded as possible so that you are ready for anything in the real world.
B.A. in dance, jazz concentration
I chose Point Park University because there were so many students that I looked up to in classes before mine. I was also influenced to attend by Professor Jodi Welch, who is my teacher and mentor.
B.A. in dance, jazz concentration
Point Park's training opened my eyes to the real world and prepared me with what to expect after graduation, how to conduct myself and to remain versatile regardless of my strengths and weaknesses.
B.A. in dance, jazz concentration
This program focuses on jazz concentration, providing graduates with a foundation in dance, jazz, and artistic development for aspiring professional dancers.
jazz
abdominal work
ballet barre
Yoga
Pilates
Dance Program
Point Park's dance program is thorough. It knows how to train dancers and prepare you for the professional world.
Pre-Professional Dance Program
Point Park's Pre-Professional Dance Program, preparing students for a future in dance.
jazz
Degree earned: B.F.A. in dance, jazz concentration, 2005. The jazz concentration within the B.F.A. in dance program.
nutrition
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
somatics
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
African
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
salsa
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
musical theater
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
hip hop
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
modern
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
contemporary
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
tap
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
jazz
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
ballet
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
Conservatory Dance Company at the Byham Theater
Choreographed by MADBOOTS, Larry Keigwin, Matthew Powell and Sonya Tayeh, this is one of the biggest shows of the season. Tayeh of "So You Think You Can Dance" will choreograph a world-premiere piece alongside works by Powell and contemporary duo MADBOOTS. Keigwin will present Triptych, a minimalist, abstract piece inspired by the classic triptychs of photography.
Conservatory Dance Company at Point Park University
Point Park University faculty choreograph an eclectic and electric selection of pieces sure to entertain. Styles ranging from ballet to contemporary to jazz illustrate the impressive talents of the conservatory students.
Five
Rubén Graciani, associate professor and dance chair, and Kiesha Lalama, associate professor, collaborate to debut a brand new work with the Conservatory Dance Company. Performed with a live choir on the Rockwell Theatre stage, Five takes us inside the minds and senses of the dancers to reflect on the difficult choices we make every day.
Point Park Connections
Point Park Connections features an array of dance styles as exciting and varied as our adjunct dance faculty. Working closely with the conservatory students to teach and refine technique, the adjunct faculty members create a level of familiarity and collaboration that brings remarkable results to the stage.
Salsa
Salsa is a vibrant and popular social dance with roots in Latin America, particularly Cuba and Puerto Rico, known for its rhythmic hip movements, partner turns, and energetic steps.
West African Dance
West African Dance is a dynamic and energetic form of dance originating from various cultures in West Africa, often performed with live drumming and expressing community, celebration, or storytelling.
Flamenco
Flamenco is a passionate and expressive art form originating from Andalusia, Spain, characterized by intricate footwork (zapateado), hand clapping (palmas), and soulful singing (cante).
Indian Dance
Indian Dance refers to the diverse classical and folk dance traditions of India, each with its unique postures, gestures, and storytelling techniques, often rooted in mythology and spirituality.
African Dance
African Dance encompasses a vast array of traditional and contemporary dance styles from across the African continent, often characterized by rhythmic movements, intricate footwork, and expressive gestures.
West African Drumming
West African Drumming is a percussive art form integral to the cultural fabric of many West African societies, used in ceremonies, celebrations, and storytelling, often accompanied by dance.
Chinese Mongolian Dancing
Chinese Mongolian Dancing is a vibrant and expressive dance form originating from the Mongolian ethnic group within China, often incorporating elements of horseback riding and storytelling.
Irish Step Dancing
Irish Step Dancing is a traditional form of dance with roots in Irish culture, characterized by precise footwork and upright posture. It is often performed to lively traditional Irish music.
jazz
The versatility and variety the dance program offers in ballet, modern and jazz. Training with these outside choreographers allowed me to gain broader tools and information about these art forms.
modern
The versatility and variety the dance program offers in ballet, modern and jazz. Training with these outside choreographers allowed me to gain broader tools and information about these art forms.
ballet
The versatility and variety the dance program offers in ballet, modern and jazz. Training with these outside choreographers allowed me to gain broader tools and information about these art forms.
More than 200 classes
More than 200 classes led by guest artists and choreographers in Point Park's state-of-the-art dance facilities and at the Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts School , located within walking distance to campus.
Master class led by Parsons Dance
A master class led by Parsons Dance from New York City.
master class with Parsons Dance
NHSDF continues through March 6 with more than 200 classes led by guest artists and choreographers and a master class with Parsons Dance.
more than 200 classes
NHSDF continues through March 6 with more than 200 classes led by guest artists and choreographers and a master class with Parsons Dance.
warm-up class
trending commercial world
This style encompasses the trending commercial world that is quickly shaping new aspects of the dance business, and is part of a gamut of styles provided to cultivate students' studies.
jazz
The classic foundations of jazz are taught as part of a gamut of styles provided to cultivate students' studies in the dance business.
Pilobolus Master Class with Dancers
This master class focuses on creation, collaboration, and improvisation, aiming to open up advanced young professional dancers to new ways of thinking about their craft. The class involved improvisational exercises, teamwork building, and exercises to enhance spatial and bodily awareness. The key message emphasized the importance of teamwork, requiring participants to be conscious of their surroundings and others.
jazz concentration
The jazz concentration within the B.F.A. in Dance program at Point Park University provides a specialized focus for aspiring dancers.
B.F.A. in Dance
Pursue a B.F.A. in dance with a jazz concentration, receiving a liberal arts degree and growing as an artist with supportive teachers.
jazz
Jazz concentration within the dance program at Point Park University.
Dance
The dance program at Point Park University offers a rigorous schedule and has top-of-the-line alumni accomplishments. The professors are amazing and the facilities are gorgeous. The program has prepared me for auditions and classes outside the university community.
Spring Dance Concert
The dance season culminates in a special performance of works by masters of the new and old worlds, including Joshua Peugh, Jennifer Archibald, Sidra Bell and Matthew Powell.
Point Park Connections
Point Park University's part-time faculty includes exceptional regional artists and instructors in a range of styles. Working closely with Conservatory students to refine technique, these gifted educators create a level of familiarity and collaboration that translate into magical moments on stage.
Faculty Dance Concert
An eclectic and electric selection of pieces range from ballet, contemporary and jazz to shine a spotlight on the versatility and strength of our students. Choreographers include Kiesha Lalama, Jason McDole, Mark Burrell, Susan Stowe and Jay Kirk.
Winter Dance Concert
Join us for a powerful performance of works by John Heginbotham, Adam Hougland, Garfield Lemonius, and Lucinda Childs with stagers Jorge Perez Martinez and Matt Pardo.
Contemporary Choreographers
Experience an unforgettable evening as emerging and established artists push the boundaries of dance and explore new ideas and new movement. Featuring works by Joshua Manculich, Brice Mousset and Kate Skarpetowska.
modern dance
The Conservatory of Performing Arts has a long tradition of training superbly versatile dance artists. That we are always ranked among the best schools in the country speaks volumes of our dedication to the profession and to preparing artists for an ever-changing industry. OnStage takes months to research the best programs, basing it off cost vs. scholarships, curriculum, performance opportunities, facilities, faculty experience, career support and more. The blog called Point Park's facilities "state of the art" and notes "triple threat" training in ballet, jazz and modern dance.
jazz
The Conservatory of Performing Arts has a long tradition of training superbly versatile dance artists. That we are always ranked among the best schools in the country speaks volumes of our dedication to the profession and to preparing artists for an ever-changing industry. OnStage takes months to research the best programs, basing it off cost vs. scholarships, curriculum, performance opportunities, facilities, faculty experience, career support and more. The blog called Point Park's facilities "state of the art" and notes "triple threat" training in ballet, jazz and modern dance.
ballet
The Conservatory of Performing Arts has a long tradition of training superbly versatile dance artists. That we are always ranked among the best schools in the country speaks volumes of our dedication to the profession and to preparing artists for an ever-changing industry. OnStage takes months to research the best programs, basing it off cost vs. scholarships, curriculum, performance opportunities, facilities, faculty experience, career support and more. The blog called Point Park's facilities "state of the art" and notes "triple threat" training in ballet, jazz and modern dance.
B.F.A. in Dance Program
Point Park University's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance program has been named by OnStage Blog as one of the 10 best in the country for 2017-18. Point Park came in at No. 8 on this year's list, sharing space with such schools as The Juilliard School, Southern Methodist University, Indiana University and Butler University.
Master classes with Parsons Dance
Master classes with Parsons Dance, featuring Point Park alumni Henry Steele '16 and DaMond Garner '18. Students had the opportunity to learn the Parsons style from esteemed alumni.
Master Classes
More than 150 master classes led by guest artists and choreographers in Point Park's state-of-the-art dance facilities. These classes offer students opportunities to learn from professionals in the field and refine their skills.
Spring Dance Concert: Iconic Choreographers of Ballet, Modern and Jazz
The spirit of one of the fathers of modern dance lives on in his exuberant choreographic body of works. The dance department welcomes to the University for the first time, Company B, a poignant work by dance legend, Paul Taylor, on a concert featuring works of other prominent artists. Ballet – George Balanchine, Modern – Martha Graham, Jazz – Bob Fosse, Modern - Paul Taylor.
Winter Dance Concert: Mother of Invention
Accessibility is the mother of invention, and Justin Peck is making ballet that speaks to our everyday lives. The Conservatory Dance Company will perform In Creases, a work by Justin Peck, one of the premier new “it” choreographers for the ballet stage. Ballet - Justin Peck, Hip Hop - Rennie Harris, Contemporary – Penny Saunders, Jazz/Commercial – Teddy Forance.
Contemporary Choreographers: Poised for Renaissance
This season’s Contemporary Choreographers offerings will celebrate tap’s resurgence by including tap duo Chloe and Maud Arnold, as their performances will help celebrate the rich roots tap explores in African and Irish American dance forms. Contemporary - Norbert De La Cruz III, African American Contemporary – Camille A. Brown, Ballet – Jessica Lang, Tap – Chloe and Maud Arnold.
dance
The dance program at Point Park University has once again been recognized as one of the Best College Dance Programs for 2020-21 in the U.S. by DanceUS.org.
modern
ballet
Dance Composition
I teach Modern Dance Technique and Dance Composition. I think that taking dance class is a sacred act of inviting wonder into our lives. I love spaces where imagination and discovery flow through the work.
Modern Dance Technique
I teach Modern Dance Technique and Dance Composition. I think that taking dance class is a sacred act of inviting wonder into our lives. I love spaces where imagination and discovery flow through the work.
dance
ballet
Take ballet class even if you don’t plan on being a ballet dancer — every style of dance can offer you different qualities and strengths that value your diversity and range. Keep dreaming big and set new goals. Never doubt yourself or your abilities. Always be present, focused and work hard. Let your passion lead you and guide you.
contemporary ballet partnering
I teach classical ballet and contemporary ballet partnering classes. I believe the technique is the root of dance training and class is where dancers hone their foundation. My ballet offers the dancer an explorative approach to classical ballet technique that incorporates the full upper body combined with precise footwork. I also focus on encouraging the dancer to work smart and hard within the framework of traditional ballet with an emphasis on developing strength, fluidity, artistry and appreciation of musicality.
classical ballet
I teach classical ballet and contemporary ballet partnering classes. I believe the technique is the root of dance training and class is where dancers hone their foundation. My ballet offers the dancer an explorative approach to classical ballet technique that incorporates the full upper body combined with precise footwork. I also focus on encouraging the dancer to work smart and hard within the framework of traditional ballet with an emphasis on developing strength, fluidity, artistry and appreciation of musicality.
Dance (jazz)
Point Park's rigorous dance program provides students the ability to grow and have a taste of the real world before they step into it. Additionally, the diverse program allows students to explore all that dance can be. I learned just as much from the students as I did from the teachers. When I look back I see that the possibilities were endless.
Dance Composition I-III
Entrepreneurship in the Arts
Men's Class
Pas de Deux
Classical Ballet Technique
My technique classes are completely performance based. It is paramount to my teaching philosophy that students in my class lead with their love for dance — the outcome transcends technique. While I work to establish relevant training in classical technique, I believe in class as a space that also curates our quality of movement, line, musicality, performative energy, and ability to pick up material.
B.A. in Dance Education
Major in dance
BODYTRAFFIC master classes
BODYTRAFFIC — a premier Los Angeles-based contemporary dance company led by Artistic Director Tina Finkelman Berkett — performed at the Opening Ceremony, taught four master classes at NHSDF and held auditions for Point Park seniors before the festival.
Resident Choreographers
Taylor Knight '12 and Anna Thompson '12, co-founders of slowdanger, served as Resident Choreographers at Springboard Danse.
guest teaching artist and choreographic assistant
Kimie Parker '19 served as a guest teaching artist and choreographic assistant for Sidra Bell Dance New York at Springboard Danse.
classes
Springboard Danse offers classes as part of its summer project for career development and connection.
Springboard Danse | Pittsburgh Summer Project
Facilitates employment opportunities, commissions and relationships with lifelong collaborators. Includes PLATFORM, a public showing of works from their Resident, Fellow and Emerging Choreographers, ABYSS, an iterative and site-specific dance/sound performance, and an invitation-only final industry showing.
Master Class
NHSDF participants with Point Park University alumni Ahmad Simmons and Ian Spring from Parsons Dance Company. Dance alumni Ian Spring and Ahmad Simmons - members of Parsons Dance Company in New York City - returned to Point Park's campus to teach a master class at the 2016 National High School Dance Festival. Held in the George Rowland White Performance Center's studio 3, more than 70 high school dancers participated in the 80-minute class on Friday morning. Learn more about the alumni and the master class in the interview below.
Courses
Giordano Dance Chicago Mentorship Program
This program is for students in college who have a strong interest in pursuing a career with Giordano Dance Chicago. Mentors are wonderful people who really take an interest in helping you get where you want to be. The mentorship program has welcomed me with open arms and hearts into their family.
Workshops
Summer Dance Workshop
injury prevention
Students will train with resident dance faculty, guest artists and choreographers to develop a solid foundation of skills in Point Park's state-of-the-art George Rowland White Performance Center during the festival.
Contemporary Choreographers
Choreographed by Gregory Dolbashian, Ori Flomin, Jessica Hendricks and Septime Webre, Contemporary Choreographers offers two weekends of cutting-edge dance.
Scholarship auditions for dance programs and summer intensives
Scholarship auditions for dance programs and summer intensives in front of prestigious schools from across the country. This provided students with opportunities to showcase their talent and potentially secure future educational placements.
master classes
The event, which drew over 2,100 attendees, is estimated to have generated more than $2 million in economic activity for the local community. This year's festival, the largest of its kind, welcomed more than 1,600 high school students from 100 schools across the U.S. and internationally, offering them the opportunity to engage in master classes, performances and scholarship auditions.
master classes and workshops
The 2025 festival included scholarship auditions for 70 university/college dance programs and summer intensives, including Point Park, more than 200 master classes and workshops in the University's state-of-the-art facilities, plus Gala, Showcase, Embedded and Outstanding Student Choreography Concerts.
workshops
Springboard Danse's summer project involves workshops for dancers to collaborate and connect.
SpringboardX Pittsburgh Immersive Workshops
Two days of immersive workshops offering dancers an opportunity to experience and connect with the Springboard community in a non-audition setting. Workshops blend storytelling, theatricality, improvisation and contemporary technique, while sharing skills for building diverse and successful careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I contact George Rowland White Performance Center?
Call George Rowland White Performance Center at (412) 392-4775 or visit https://www.pointpark.edu/newstaglisting/george%20rowland%20white%20performance%20center.
What is George Rowland White Performance Center's phone number?
Reach George Rowland White Performance Center directly at (412) 392-4775.
What is the best way to contact George Rowland White Performance Center?
The quickest way is to call (412) 392-4775 or visit https://www.pointpark.edu/newstaglisting/george%20rowland%20white%20performance%20center.
Does George Rowland White Performance Center have a website?
Yes, you can find George Rowland White Performance Center online at https://www.pointpark.edu/newstaglisting/george%20rowland%20white%20performance%20center.
What city is George Rowland White Performance Center in?
George Rowland White Performance Center is in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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