Business Details
27 Years
experience
Premier Dance School in Redwood City, CA
Founded in 1999 by Julia Dugan, the Academy Of American Ballet is a premier institution dedicated to advancing dance education through a unique blend of artistry and anatomical science. Our approach prioritizes injury-free training grounded in the Vaganova method, emphasizing natural movement and technical precision tailored to each student's physical capabilities. With state-of-the-art facilities featuring professional sprung floors and a Pilates studio, we provide a safe, nurturing environment for dancers aged 2 to adult.Our instructors, many of whom hold advanced degrees in dance education, integrate kinesiology and body mechanics into every lesson, ensuring long-term health and artistic growth. Over 20 years, we've trained hundreds of dancers, many of whom have attended prestigious programs at American Ballet Theatre and San Francisco Ballet, while maintaining a community-focused ethos through free performances and outreach initiatives.
Services
Ballet
Modern Dance
Jazz
Hip Hop
Tap
Pilates
Contemporary
Pointe Work
Progressing Ballet Technique
Stretch/Strength Training
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We specialize in anatomically informed dance training to prevent injuries and promote long-term health
- Our instructors hold advanced degrees in dance education and kinesiology
- We maintain state-of-the-art facilities with professional sprung floors and Pilates equipment
- We've trained dancers who've attended prestigious programs at American Ballet Theatre and San Francisco Ballet
- We offer age-appropriate choreography and community engagement through free performances
Services
Ballet Training
Our ballet program follows the Vaganova method with anatomically informed instruction. We offer classes from pre-ballet through advanced levels, focusing on proper technique and artistic expression. Students develop strength, flexibility, and performance skills in a safe, nurturing environment.
Pilates Instruction
We provide Pilates training using reformers and mat work to enhance dancers' core strength and body awareness. Classes include specialized programs for injury prevention and performance enhancement. Our instructors integrate Pilates principles with dance-specific conditioning techniques.
Modern Dance
Our modern dance classes emphasize creative expression while maintaining technical proficiency. Students explore diverse movement styles and improvisation techniques. Classes focus on developing individual artistry within a structured training framework.
Progressing Ballet Technique
This specialized program builds strength and muscle memory through targeted exercises. Designed for intermediate+ dancers, it enhances performance quality and injury prevention. Classes incorporate scientific principles of movement and body mechanics.
Community Performances
We organize free community performances throughout the year, including our annual Nutcracker production. These opportunities allow students to gain stage experience while sharing dance with diverse audiences. Performances feature roles for all skill levels.
People
Julia Dugan
Founder/Director
Julia Dugan founded the Academy in 1999 after dancing professionally for five years. She holds a BA in Economics and MA in Dance Education from Stanford University. With over 30 years teaching experience, she specializes in Vaganova method instruction and anatomically informed training techniques.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer ballet, modern, jazz, hip hop, tap, contemporary, and Pilates classes for ages 2 through adult.
How do you prevent dance injuries?
Our instructors use anatomically informed techniques and the Vaganova method to ensure safe, natural movement development.
What are your facilities like?
We have professional sprung floors, a Pilates studio with 4 reformers, and Marley dance surfaces throughout our Redwood City facility.
Do you offer community programs?
Yes, we organize free community performances and outreach programs throughout the year for all skill levels.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
All instructors have college degrees in dance or related fields and specialized training in anatomy and kinesiology.
Do you have performance opportunities?
We offer annual Nutcracker and June recitals with roles for all students plus community performance opportunities.
