The dance department is one of six major programs operated by The Governor's School for the Arts. Average student enrollment in the department is sixty. The department operates at the TRDance Center, located in the cultural center of downtown Norfolk, across the street from the TCC Roper Performing Arts Center.

The dance department is designed to accommodate both the pre-professional and the non-professional dancer; however, the same rigorous standards are maintained for all.

Students major in either ballet or modern dance and perform in both traditional and non-traditional settings. Ballet, modern, jazz and tap companies, which are available by audition, offer students opportunities to work with professional choreographers. Curriculum includes modern, ballet and jazz technique classes, pointe, pas de deux, The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning, tap, anatomy and kinesiology for dancers, rhythmic analysis, dance history, improvisation, choreography, and contact improvisation.