The UMBC Dance Department presents the Fall 2000 Dance Showcase from December 7 through 9 at 8 p.m. in Fine Arts Studio 317. Tickets are $8 general and $5 students/seniors; all proceeds benefit the UMBC Dance Department Scholarship Fund. For more information, call (410) 455-6240.

The program, choreographed and performed by UMBC dance students, also includes work by visiting artist David Appel and dance instructor Sandra Lacy. Friday's program will include performances by the African Dance class.

The consistently standing-room-only events are an integral part of students' dance training, a perfect example of the importance the University places on real-world experience. Dance professor Douglas Hamby, who has organized the showcases for over four years, explains, "To be successful, our students have to find their niche as a dancer and choreographer, and this concert gives them the chance to develop those abilities and learn about themselves and each other. They have to learn to be ready for anything."