A subcategory of the jazz genre, contemporary dance incorporates ballet and modern technique and vocabulary. Contemporary dance is exemplified by its use of traditional ballet technique, various jazz styles, and emotional musical connection. Classes consist of center barre as well as choreography that infuses all three genres.
Related Faculty
Casey Harkness Andrade
FSPA Dance Director, Dance Company Director; Instructor of Jazz, Contemporary, and Dance for Musical Theater

Casey Harkness Andrade is a professional choreographer, educator, and performer. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Dance Performance from Rhode Island College where she trained and studied with exceptional choreographers including Clay Talifaro, Sean Curran, Colleen Cavanaugh, and Mark Taylor. Casey has worked and performed with various artists throughout the Northeast. While dancing with the Andary Dance Company, Casey had the opportunity to perform at the Cunningham School in New York City. As a member of the Franklin Performing Arts Company, Casey has enjoyed roles such as Morticia in The Addams Family and Mayzie in Seussical. Casey has ten years experience being an adjudicator and choreographer for regional and national competitions such as Elite Dance Challenge and Celebration Talent. She has been an adjunct faculty instructor at Rhode Island College, where she taught jazz and worked with the RIC Dance Company as assistant rehearsal director. Casey is currently an adjunct professor at Dean College, teaching courses in both jazz and tap. A member of FSPA’s Dance Faculty since 2011, Casey is the director of the dance department and the FSPA Dance Company. She teaches a variety of classes in dance and musical theater as well as creates and facilitates curriculum, placement of students, and performances for the school.