ExxonMobil Discovery Series: Dance to Connect

Introducing 5th Graders to the World of the Performing Arts

Arts Partner: Chapman Dance and Katherine. G McGovern College of Arts, School of Theatre and Dance

Fine Arts, Math, Science, SEL

Dance to Connect is a vibrant, educational dance presentation that invites students to explore how movement can be a powerful tool for building social bonds, understanding scientific concepts, and expressing emotions. Led by professional teaching artists, this interactive session combines live dance performance, audience participation, and engaging discussion to demonstrate how dance connects us — to ourselves, to each other, and to the world around us. Learning objectives include discovering of how movement can represent scientific ideas, practicing collaboration, empathy, and creative expression, and fostering a sense of connection, belonging, and self-confidence. Dance to Connect leaves students energized, informed, and inspired to see dance not just as art, but as a powerful bridge between people, ideas, and learning.

Learn More about the Hobby Center’s educational programming and future opportunities for Houston school districts.

This project is supported in part by an award from the Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs and Mid-America Arts Alliance and The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion 2025 BIG grant.

About Chapman Dance

Teresa Chapman is the Director of the Dance Program at the University of Houston and founder of Chapman Dance, which currently works on a project-to-project basis.  Described as “uber-physical, risk-taking,” “vibrant and mesmerizing” by the press, Chapman Dance has proven to deliver exceptional dancing for over fifteen years in Houston and across the nation.   Chapman has received multiple grants from the University of Houston and Houston Arts Alliance to support her work. Known for her full-bodied, athletic choreography, Chapman continues to produce works that celebrate the Human spirit.  Chapman received her MFA in Dance from California State University, Long Beach.

Photo credit: Lynn Lane