Guidance

In dance an instructor is a second parent, guidance counselor, and sensei all rolled into one. So it is imperative that an aspiring dancer finds the right fit to ensure the best development. To locate the perfect instructor, certain criteria and expectations need to be processed.

The first step is deciding on a level of commitment. If a dancer is extremely devoted, chances are they will follow a strict schedule; where as a recreational dancer will take class occasionally. Companies and schools have strenuous dance training that requires great undertaking, while private studios offer classes and training in a wide range of levels and ages. When first getting your feet wet, start with the minimal amount of commitment and work up.

Always trial-run instructors and studio set-up for at least a month. This provides you with information on class size, instructor strengths and weaknesses, peer evaluation, and scheduling. With this information a pro and con list can be made, which will aid you in choosing to remain there or to keep searching. Always try new techniques and different instructions before deciding on a semi-permanent area of study.

Be on the lookout for opportunities to perform and take part in. Things such as dance workshops or choreography showcases are great ways to improve your technique. Going to the ones that require an audition, also prepares you for job and company auditions in the professional realm. Things that take you out of your comfort zone increase the span of your technique, which makes you more adaptable and a better dancer. Therefore, a teacher that challenges you and gives you hands-on training is the best match.

Whether you choose to dance a lot or for purely recreational purposes, you can find your right match by doing your research. To guide you on your quest I've created a list of studios in Orange County available for different levels and areas of study.

Beginners:
(This is the area for students who are interested in dance, but unsure of whether to pursue.)
The Music Room: Orange
Here students can take from ages 3 to 18. Class sizes are moderate with a large amount of faculty, who are well-trained. There are several performance oppurtunities throughout the year. Most of the Music Room students dance recreationaly, so students are under less pressure. They do have a competition team, but they do not place a great influence on it.

Boogiezone: Irvine, Torrance, Alhambra
Boogiezone is a dane network created to bring dance to the community once a week. Many choreographers and instructors are asked to teach, which creates a wide range of styles and techniques that benefit a dancer. There are three seperate destinations of boogiezone and classes are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, more information can be found in the forum under community class.

High School:

OCHSA: Santa Ana
The Orange County High School of the Arts has a leading performing arts program, with specific strengths in dance and musical theater. Students are placed in academic classes at high school level and specific art classes at a college level. Choreography and performance are a major priority and training is extended.

College and Professional:

Chapman University: Orange
Institutes a four-year education plan in dance studies including history, anatomy and kinesiology, choreography, performance and training. Main techniques of study include jazz, ballet, and modern, as well as ballroom, tap, turns, pointe, yoga, and pilates.

The Edge and Millenium: Los Angelos
These two dance centers provide classes to adults and professionals who are looking to improve their technique and style, but who have a basic foundation in dance. Majority of the classes are geared towards advanced students. They also give late night classes for those who work or attend school.