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Photo: George Mason School of Dance students in front of the Northern School of Contemporary Dance in Leeds, UK during their Leap Into Leeds study abroad trip.
The 2025–2026 academic year marked an exciting milestone in the growing partnership between George Mason University's School of Dance and the Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD) in Leeds, England. Building on the international collaboration formally established in 2024, Associate Professor Shaun D’Arcy created and led the inaugural in-person exchange, designed to foster artistic collaboration, cultural exchange, and meaningful connections between students and faculty at both institutions.
The exchange began in fall 2025, when the School of Dance welcomed six NSCD students and one faculty member for a week of classes, creative work, and community engagement. Our UK guests experienced daily classes, got a glimpse into rehearsals, and attended performances at the Center for the Arts at George Mason University and the Kennedy Center. In June 2026, D’Arcy led the first Leap Into Leeds study-abroad program, accompanying a cohort of Mason dance majors to Leeds for an immersive educational and cultural experience.
While at NSCD, Mason dancers participated in daily technique and creative practice classes alongside their UK peers, while also engaging with the city's vibrant arts community. Highlights included taking company class with Phoenix Dance Theatre, attending a performance at Leeds Playhouse, visiting museums and galleries throughout Leeds, and exploring the historic city of York. These experiences complemented the academic curriculum by exposing students to diverse artistic perspectives and the rich cultural heritage of northern England.
The inaugural Leap Into Leeds program exceeded expectations, strengthening our international partnership while providing transformative experiences for everyone involved. Watching students build lasting relationships across cultures, learn from one another, and grow as artists was incredibly rewarding. The exchange also created new opportunities for future collaboration, including teaching, guest artist residencies, and creative projects that will continue to enrich both institutions for years to come.