A new dance studio levels up the student experience, seamlessly integrating lighting, sound, videography and photography to enhance student learning and professional development.
΄σΟσ΄«Γ½βs Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment recently opened its Dean John Bedford Video Dance Studio, named in recognition of the founding deanβs profound impact on arts education and management.
The studio is equipped with cutting-edge technology found at only a handful of dance schools in the nation. It empowers students in building comprehensive portfolios, capturing performance artistry and exploring new creative avenues. It boasts an impressive array of features, including:
- Advanced lighting system: Over 70 professional lighting instruments, many with Multiverse technology, are mounted on ceiling pipes and movable side dance lighting towers and controlled with a main console.
- Adaptable visuals: 98 feet of black velour drapes, supported by 98 feet of curtain traveler tracks, allow for adaptable backdrops and the concealment of mirrors when needed, facilitating diverse filming scenarios.
- Professional performance surface: 379 square yards of Stagestep Timestep black flooring provides an ideal, resilient surface for dance and performance.
- High-quality video capture: A PTZOptics Move PTZ auto-track camera with joystick controller enables precise and user-friendly video recording.
- Immersive audio: A commercial amplifier powers 24 ceiling speakers and two subwoofers for exceptional sound reinforcement. The Bluetooth-ready system allows dancers to transmit their own music and sound directly from their smartphones.
John Bedford, the founding dean of the Ann Lacy School, pioneered one of the nationβs first undergraduate arts management programs. He held key leadership roles with institutions such as the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and the Dallas Ballet. Bedfordβs dedication to student success is evident in his co-founding of the American Spirit Dance Company and his leadership of international arts tours. A recipient of numerous accolades, including induction into the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame and the prestigious Flo-Bert Award, Bedfordβs legacy continues to inspire.
βThis studio represents a significant leap forward for our students,β said Melanie Shelley, dean of the Ann Lacy School. βBy integrating professional-grade media capabilities directly into the rehearsal and performance space, we are equipping our dance and entertainment business students with the tools allowing them to train on lighting, sound, video and photographic equipment, improving their global marketability in this digital age. Naming this studio in honor of Dean Bedford is a fitting tribute to his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing arts education.β
The Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment is a premier institution dedicated to training the next generation of leaders in dance and entertainment. Offering specialized programs in various dance disciplines and arts management, the school is renowned for its rigorous curriculum, distinguished faculty and exceptional career preparation.
