Academy of American Dance

About Academy of American Dance

The Academy of American Dance, located in Redwood City, California, has been a cornerstone of dance education since its founding in 1999. Tracing its roots back to Julia Dugan's Cardinal Ballet at Stanford University in 1993, the studio is dedicated to developing artistry and sound technique in dancers of all ages and levels. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Julia Ball-Dugan, who holds BA and MA degrees from Stanford with a specialization in integrating anatomy and kinesiology into dance, the academy emphasizes anatomically informed and injury-free practices. Julia Dugan's extensive professional ballet experience and Master's in Dance Education inform a progressive curriculum, incorporating Pilates, EBAS, and Feldenkrais, alongside Vaganova method certification for pre-ballet through level 5. The Academy offers a comprehensive curriculum encompassing Ballet, Contemporary, Modern, Hip Hop, Jazz, and Tap. Students can explore specialized Pointe work, Jazz/Hip Hop combos, and Little Ballet/Tap classes. The faculty comprises accomplished dancers and educators, including Assistant Director Tanya Gunton, Modern Instructor Jenny Nagel, Ballet Instructor Adolfo Marazita, Erika Vetter (jazz, tap, ballet), Kristine Chambers (ballet, modern, jazz, tap, contemporary, ballroom), Jayne Zaban (ballet, jazz), Tracy Reeves-Fletcher (jazz, hip hop, pre-ballet, modern, contemporary, ballroom, African dance), Melissa Cheu (tap), and Sarah Eichler (pre-ballet, ballet). Additionally, Owen Grady offers Pilates instruction through his on-site studio, Motio. The academy boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a professional dance floor and a dedicated Pilates studio with reformers, fostering a nurturing environment for passionate dancers to grow and express themselves while prioritizing long-term health and artistic development.

Styles offered at Academy of American Dance