University of Iowa Dance Department Relocates to a Modernized Facility

The University of Iowa’s Department of Dance has found a new home that brings modernity and inspiration to its faculty and students. Nestled on the west side of the Iowa River, this recently renovated space fosters collaboration with other performing and visual arts programs, marking a fresh chapter in the department’s storied history.

The renovation, a product of the university’s P3 program, breathes new life into the former art museum building, which suffered flood damage in 2008. Jennifer Kayle, the department executive officer and professor, reflects on this transition, stating, “This represents a brand new era for us… Our building is a world-class, updated facility. I think everyone is going to be just so impressed with the design. It’s a new jewel in the crown of the University of Iowa.”

Previously housed in Halsey Hall—a building originally constructed as a women’s gymnasium—the dance program’s move signifies a significant upgrade. Established in 1924 under the guidance of Elizabeth Halsey, the Department of Dance evolved from a physical education program. The development of a comprehensive dance curriculum led to the introduction of a Bachelor of Arts in Dance degree in 1976, and the department was officially recognized in 1988, now offering BA, BFA, and MFA degrees.

The new facility consolidates the department’s resources, including digital arts spaces, which were previously scattered across the campus. Kayle notes, “We’ve been across the river from our own program in a lot of ways. Now, we have everything under one roof: digital arts classrooms, the motion capture studio, five studios, and an office suite. Each studio is an appropriate size and has better functionality, with an upgraded sound system and video projection.”

Significantly, one studio features a wood floor, accommodating a range of dance styles such as hip-hop and street dance, which have been newly integrated into the curriculum. Additionally, the facility includes an informal performance space, further enhancing opportunities for student and faculty showcases.

The department’s new home offers dedicated areas for students to gather, study, and socialize, filling a void left by the older Halsey Hall. Andre Perry, assistant provost for arts and creativity, emphasizes the building’s contribution to a growing arts community on campus, saying, “The Department of Dance’s proximity to the School of Art, Art History, and Design; Department of Theatre Arts; and Hancher Auditorium affirms the arrival of an arts neighborhood on campus. The opportunities for learning, collaborating, and building community are abundant.”

With a reputation for high MFA placement rates, the Department of Dance aspires to continue its tradition of excellence. Kayle expresses her vision for the future, stating, “What this building represents is both a huge commitment from the university to our students and faculty, and an inspiring space ready for our whole community — beginners, experts, observers, and all friends of dance.”

More from the Department of Dance

Stephanie Miracle, choreographer and assistant professor of dance, is the recipient of the 2026 Obermann Interdisciplinary Achievement Award, a peer-nominated prize for UI faculty who excel in collaborative work. In this story, she talks about the challenges and rewards of interdisciplinary work.

“Interdisciplinarity is important in general, but in dance, it’s a powerful tool,” she says.