Business Details
37 Years
experience
Premier Dance Education in Callahan, Florida
Callahan Dance Academy has been a cornerstone of dance education in Callahan, Florida, for over 36 years. Founded by Terri Gaughran at age 19, our academy combines decades of industry expertise with a personalized approach to nurture dancers of all ages and skill levels. Our faculty includes seasoned instructors with extensive backgrounds in competitive dance, choreography, and education, many of whom began their careers as students here. We offer a comprehensive curriculum spanning ballet, jazz, hip-hop, acrobatics, and more, complemented by summer camps and performance opportunities. Our mission prioritizes individual growth, fostering confidence and artistry through tailored teaching strategies.With a legacy rooted in the Buddy Sherwood School of Dance tradition, we maintain rigorous standards while embracing innovation. The studios success reflects our commitment to community, evidenced by multigenerational families who continue to trust us with their dance education. From beginner classes to advanced training, we provide a supportive environment where every student can thrive. Our partnerships with local schools and participation in regional events underscore our dedication to cultural enrichment. As we continue to evolve, our core values remain unchanged: excellence in instruction, inclusivity, and a lifelong passion for dance.
Services
Ballet Classes
Jazz Instruction
Hip-Hop Workshops
Acrobatics Training
Summer Dance Camps
Performance Coaching
Competitive Team Prep
Private Lessons
Parent-Child Classes
Adult Dance Fitness
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We offer 36 years of proven dance education expertise
- Our faculty includes award-winning instructors with competitive dance backgrounds
- Personalized teaching strategies tailored to individual learning needs
- Comprehensive curriculum covering 8+ dance styles and performance opportunities
- Multigenerational staff with deep community connections
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops proper technique and grace for ages 5+. Students learn foundational positions, barre work, and classical repertoire. Classes emphasize posture, flexibility, and performance skills. Instructors use progressive curriculum aligned with international standards.
Hip-Hop Workshops
Contemporary hip-hop classes focus on rhythm, isolations, and freestyle expression. Students master current trends while developing musicality and stage presence. Workshops available for all skill levels, ages 7+. Choreography incorporates commercial and street styles.
Acrobatics Training
Certified instructors teach safe progressions from basic rolls to advanced flips. Classes emphasize strength, flexibility, and spatial awareness. Students integrate acro skills into dance routines. Equipment includes sprung floors and safety mats.
Summer Dance Camps
Themed week-long camps combine dance training with creative activities. Options include Princess Camp, Dance Party Camp, and Let's Go Girls Camp for ages 3-12. Each session concludes with a showcase for family and friends.
Competitive Team Prep
Audition-based teams receive elite training in multiple genres. Members compete regionally with choreography by award-winning instructors. Program includes costume design, rehearsal scheduling, and performance coaching for solo/duet participants.
People
Terri Gaughran
Owner & Director
Founder with 36 years of experience, trained at Buddy Sherwood School of Dance. Specializes in choreography and dance education for all ages. Holds leadership roles in local dance competitions.
Nancy McDaniel
Studio Manager
30+ years in dance administration, teaching since age 17. Manages daily operations and parent communications. Former competitive dance team coach with convention judging experience.
Ashley Taylor
Studio Director
30-year CDA veteran teaching all styles. Bachelors in Elementary Education, combines classroom techniques with dance instruction. Organizes community performance opportunities and summer programs.
Jena Crews
Marketing Director
24-year studio member with MBA in Marketing. Teaches jazz and contemporary while managing business development. Creates promotional campaigns and social media content for the academy.
Shannon Fasan
Ballet Instructor
Classical ballet specialist with degree in Dance Performance. Former BYU competition dancer, teaches Vaganova technique. Focuses on injury prevention and proper alignment for young dancers.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach ballet, jazz, hip-hop, tap, clogging, acrobatics, contemporary, and ballroom styles for ages 2.5+.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! Annual recitals feature all students, with costumes and professional staging. Our 2025 recital is May 3.
Do you offer summer programs?
Our themed summer camps include Princess Camp, Dance Party Camp, and Let's Go Girls Camp for ages 3-12.
What are your class pricing options?
Monthly tuition ranges from $60 for one class to $190 for six classes, with discounts for military families.
How experienced are your instructors?
Our faculty has over 150 combined years of teaching experience, including multiple generations of dance educators.
