Business Details
Award-Winning Dance Academy in Littleton, CO
Founded with a passion for dance, Shelly True Dance Academy has become a premier destination for dancers aged 3 through adult. Our comprehensive programs in ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip hop, musical theatre, and specialized intensives cater to both recreational and competitive dancers. With three state-of-the-art studios featuring floating floors and marley surfaces, we prioritize technical excellence, artistic expression, and personal growth. Recognized nationally for our award-winning competitive program, we foster an environment where dancers develop discipline, creativity, and confidence.Our faculty comprises industry professionals with extensive performance and teaching experience, including connections to the Denver Broncos Cheerleaders and Broadway productions. Through structured company programs starting at age 5, we cultivate well-rounded artists prepared for professional dance careers. Our alumni have achieved success on global stages, from Las Vegas shows to Grammy performances, reflecting our commitment to nurturing both technical mastery and individual artistry.
Services
Ballet
Contemporary
Jazz
Hip Hop
Musical Theatre
Tumbling
Tech & Turns
Stretch & Strength
Poms Intensive
Cheerleader Prep
Highlights and features
- Our faculty includes Denver Broncos Cheerleaders choreographers and directors
- Recognized nationally for competitive program achievements and creative direction
- Offer 8+ dance styles including specialized tech/turns and stretch & strength training
- Company program accepts dancers starting at age 5 with individual placement
- Alumni have performed with Katy Perry, in La La Land, and on Broadway tours
Services
Ballet
Our ballet program develops foundational technique through structured training in pointe work, barre exercises, and center combinations. Students progress through graded levels focusing on proper alignment, musicality, and artistic expression. Classes emphasize classical repertoire while preparing dancers for contemporary applications in competitive and performance settings.
Competitive Dance
Award-winning competitive program placing dancers in regional and national competitions. Five company levels accommodate ages 5+ with specialized choreography in multiple genres. Training includes competition preparation, team building, and performance skills. Participants compete 4-5 times locally and nationally during July for advanced teams.
Hip Hop
Contemporary hip hop classes focus on street dance techniques, freestyle expression, and rhythmic precision. Instructors emphasize individual style development while maintaining technical foundation. Classes incorporate current trends and choreography from industry professionals with professional performance experience in major productions.
Tech & Turns
Specialized training in advanced dance techniques focusing on pirouettes, multiple turns, and technical proficiency. Classes break down complex movements with progressive drills to improve balance, control, and execution. Designed to enhance performance quality across all dance styles through targeted skill development.
Cheerleader Prep
Denver Broncos Cheerleader preparation program during tryout seasons. Includes pom routines, sideline choreography, and audition technique. Training focuses on precision, energy projection, and team coordination. Led by current and former professional cheerleaders with extensive performance experience in major sporting events.
People
Shelly Trujillo
Owner and Director
Choreographer for Denver Broncos Cheerleaders with 25+ years teaching experience. Created internationally recognized dancers and worked with major entertainment brands. Directs award-winning competitive program and develops curriculum for all dance styles.
Meghan Lawitz
Company Director
Founder of Rogue Co. Dance with 15 years Colorado dance community experience. Former Damsels Contemporary Dance Company co-director. Provides artistic direction for contemporary programs and competition choreography with national judging experience.
Tia Bloom
Mini Company Director
B.A. in Child Development with dance minor. Former University of Akron dance team member. Specializes in early childhood dance education and musical theater instruction. Develops curriculum for combo classes and young dancer development.
Jackie McMenaman
Ballet Instructor
Former David Taylor Dance Theatre principal dancer. Mentored by Nikoloz Makhateli. Brings classical ballet expertise from 12+ years performing with major companies. Focuses on technical foundation and professional preparation.
Naomi Luna
Hip Hop Instructor
America's Got Talent performer and Denver Broncos Cheerleader. Trained with industry leaders. Creates dynamic hip hop curriculum emphasizing performance quality and technical precision in a supportive learning environment.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer for beginners?
We offer ballet, jazz, hip hop, and musical theatre classes for ages 3+. Our structured program builds foundational skills while maintaining a fun, encouraging environment for new dancers.
How does the competitive company program work?
Auditions place dancers aged 5+ into five company levels. Training includes weekly technique classes plus choreography sessions. Teams compete 4-5 times locally with advanced groups attending national competitions in July.
What are the recital requirements?
We hold two annual recitals in December and June. Each family receives two free tickets with additional tickets available for purchase. Costume fees apply and are communicated separately.
Do you offer summer dance programs?
Yes, we hold summer camps and audition sessions in June. These programs provide intensive training and placement evaluations for our competitive dance companies.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
Our faculty includes current Denver Broncos Cheerleaders, professional choreographers, and former company members. All instructors have extensive performance experience and specialized training in their dance disciplines.
Reviews (5)
Patryk Purta
Jan 26, 2021
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This is an amazing studio from the owner to the teachers to the studio manager. They care about the kids and work to develop important qualities in the kids that they will be able to carry forward. The teachers teach to the level of the kids. The studio also puts on amazing recitals. If you want a good dance studio in the Denver-metro area, I highly recommend this studio.
Katie Kalen
Dec 17, 2019
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My daughter is starting her third year of dance classes here. We have loved the teachers, and the way they run things. It's low-key, but you know they are very good at what they do!
Miki Lynes
Nov 15, 2018
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Shelley is a true professional ! She treats everyone like family. We have known her for years and she is an amazing teacher and choreographer!
Jan S.
Oct 10, 2018
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This truly is an amazing place for young children to find their personality. All the teachers there make amazing dances you will never forget. They also make their students amazing dancers!!
Jo Ann Summerall
May 13, 2018
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Sweet, sweet, talented, smart owner & dance staff! We are Blessed to have found them. They have a wide variety of dance styles and levels. Plus they are National Dance winners!
