College of Dance

The College of Dance is a haven for bards who harness the power of movement and rhythm to weave magic and captivate audiences. Embracing the ancient traditions of dance as a form of arcane expression, bards of this college eschew traditional spellcasting methods in favor of intricate choreography and rhythmic patterns. Through their dance, they imbue objects with temporary life, coaxing them to animate and perform tasks or even join in synchronized combat alongside their allies.

These bards are consummate performers, adept at weaving stories and emotions through their movements. Whether performing in grand theaters or humble taverns, their dances have the power to enchant, inspire, or evoke laughter. In battle, their mastery over dance allows them to force a whimsical and disorienting dance upon foes, causing them to involuntarily mimic the bard's movements, rendering them vulnerable or immobilized amidst the swirling chaos of battle.

Members of the College of Dance gather not only in theaters and performance halls but also in secluded dance studios or open-air pavilions where they practice their craft and refine their techniques. They share a deep camaraderie, bonded by their dedication to the art of dance and the pursuit of magical expression through movement. Their performances often blend entertainment with subtle social commentary, using their platform to challenge authority, celebrate diversity, or highlight the absurdities of the world around them.

Dance Magic

When you join the College of Dance at 3rd level, bard features such as Bardic Inspiration, Song of Rest, and Countercharm that require creatures to hear you to function no longer have this requirement. Instead, creatures have to see you for the feature to function.

Rhythmic Spellcasting

Also at 3rd level, when casting a spell, you don’t need a spellcasting focus or spell components if you have free use of all of your arms and legs. However, if a cost is indicated for a material component, you must have that specific component before you can cast the spell. You cannot be holding anything unless it is a Tiny object or a weapon with the light property.

Power of Dance

Starting at 6th level, you can cast animate objects as an action, without expending a spell slot. It does not count as one of your known bard spells. You must have free use of all arms and legs to use this feature. You can do this an amount of times equal to your proficiency bonus, and you regain all uses after a long rest. You can control a number of objects with this spell equal to your level.

Quick Feet

Also at 6th level, you can cast a spell that has a casting time of one action or bonus action without expending the action or bonus action. You can do this a number of times equal to your proficiency bonus, and only once per turn. You regain all uses after a long rest. If the spell is 4th level or higher, you gain one level of exhaustion per spell level above 3rd. You cannot cast spells in this way if you have exhaustion.

Entrancing Waltz

At 14th level, you can cast otto’s irresistible dance as an action, without expending a spell slot. It does not count as one of your known bard spells. You must have free use of all arms and legs to use this feature. You can do this an amount of times equal to your proficiency bonus, and you regain all uses after a long rest.