California Dance Academy

Welcome to the California Dance Academy (CDA), a truly exceptional dance studio situated in the heart of Chatsworth, California. For families across the San Fernando Valley, finding a dance studio that blends rigorous technical training with a genuinely supportive and encouraging environment is a top priority. CDA stands out as a premier destination, celebrated by parents for its dedicated instructors and the palpable sense of joy and love they impart to every dancer. This is a place where young individuals, from those taking their first steps to aspiring professionals, can truly flourish, developing not only their dance skills but also vital life lessons such as discipline, perseverance, and confidence.

At California Dance Academy, the culture of the studio is paramount. Owners and staff are committed to creating a professional yet warm and friendly atmosphere, where every student feels valued and important. Whether a dancer dreams of a professional career, training almost every day, or simply wishes to enjoy a few classes a week for personal development and exercise, CDA provides the ideal setting. The emphasis on providing the best technique training, particularly in classical ballet, ensures that students receive a strong foundation for any dance path they choose. This commitment to both technical excellence and personal well-being is what makes California Dance Academy a cherished institution in the Chatsworth community and beyond.

California Dance Academy is conveniently located at 9741 Independence Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311, USA. This central position in the vibrant community of Chatsworth makes the studio easily accessible for families residing throughout the San Fernando Valley, including nearby areas like Northridge, Porter Ranch, Simi Valley, Woodland Hills, and West Hills. Independence Avenue is a well-trafficked street, offering clear routes for quick and efficient commutes to and from classes. The studio itself boasts a fantastic new space, almost twice the size of its old location, featuring four spacious studios. These studios are equipped with multi-layered European-style sprung dance floors, ensuring dancer safety and optimal performance. With high ceilings, ample mirrors, new barres, comfortable dressing rooms, and lounges, the facility provides an exceptional learning environment. Plus, there's plenty of easy parking available, which is a significant convenience for parents and students alike. This prime and accessible location allows CDA to effectively serve a broad demographic of aspiring dancers.

California Dance Academy offers a comprehensive range of services designed to cater to dancers at every stage of their journey, from pre-ballet for the youngest enthusiasts to pre-professional training for those with serious aspirations. Our curriculum is carefully crafted, drawing upon the best of renowned ballet methods such as ABT, RAD, Vaganova, and Cecchetti, ensuring a rigorous yet adaptable approach to dance education. Beyond classical ballet, we provide instruction in a variety of contemporary and popular dance styles, allowing students to explore diverse forms of expression. Our focus is on providing impeccable training that supports both artistic development and personal growth.

Services Offered:

• Comprehensive Dance Instruction: Guiding dancers from beginning to pre-professional levels through a carefully designed curriculum.
• Classical Ballet Training: Foundation in ballet technique drawing on ABT, RAD, Vaganova, and Cecchetti methods, taught by experienced industry professionals.
• Pointe and Variations Classes: Advanced ballet training for eligible students, focusing on pointe work and classical variations.
• Contemporary Dance: Classes exploring modern movement, improvisation, and expressive techniques.
• Jazz Dance: Dynamic and energetic classes focusing on rhythm, coordination, and stylistic versatility.
• Hip Hop Dance: Engaging classes exploring urban dance styles, promoting creativity and individual expression.
• Lyrical Dance: Blending ballet and jazz, focusing on emotional storytelling through fluid movement.
• Conditioning Classes: Programs designed to enhance strength, flexibility, and overall physical well-being for dancers.
• Pre-Division Programs (Ages 3-5): Enhancing natural love of movement through coordination, musicality, and self-confidence.
• Lower Division Programs (Ages 5-12): Building foundation in ballet while exploring other styles.
• Upper Division Programs (Ages 10-18): Deepening ballet training, expanding versatility, and developing stamina and artistry.
• Open Division (Ages 12+ / Adult & Teen): Classes for all abilities and levels, fostering love of dance and technical/artistic growth.
• Performance Opportunities: Strong encouragement for students to participate in annual Nutcracker productions, Spring Showcases, and other community events.
• California Dance Ensemble (Pre-Professional Company): Opportunities for dedicated dancers to participate in a professional performing company, including YAGP and Regional Dance America Festival.
• Summer Intensives and Camps: Focused training programs during the summer to maintain and advance technique, and explore new styles.
• Boys' Class: Dedicated classes specifically designed for male dancers.
• Horton-based Modern Class: Expanding modern dance offerings with specific technique focus.
• Theatre Jazz (incorporating Acro): Blending jazz with theatrical elements and acrobatic skills.
• Studio Rentals: Spacious studios available for hire for various projects and events.

California Dance Academy distinguishes itself through several key features and highlights that are consistently praised by its community. The studio’s commitment to providing a "family feel" while offering professional-level training is a rare and invaluable combination. Reviews from parents frequently emphasize the supportive environment where dancers are encouraged to pursue their dreams without feeling pressured, whether they aspire to compete or simply enjoy dance recreationally. This balanced approach ensures that every student’s journey is celebrated and supported, making CDA a truly special place for dance education.

Features / Highlights:

• Exceptional Dance Instructors: Highly professional, experienced, and dedicated teachers who inspire joy and love for dance in students.
• Professional Technique Training: Recognized for providing top-tier technical training, especially in classical ballet, preparing students for any level of dance.
• Supportive and Encouraging Culture: A safe, warm, and friendly studio environment where all dancers feel valued and encouraged.
• Balanced Approach to Competition: Dancers can choose to compete without feeling less important if they opt not to, fostering a healthy and inclusive atmosphere.
• Family-Like Community: Students make lasting friendships, and parents feel safe and happy with the studio's culture and staff.
• Holistic Development: Focus on building not just dance skills but also discipline, confidence, artistry, and a strong work ethic.
• Experienced Ownership: The academy is owned and operated by professional ballet dancers (Jennifer and Robbin Shahani), ensuring authentic and high-quality instruction.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Four spacious studios with multi-layered sprung floors, high ceilings, mirrors, barres, and excellent sound/lighting systems.
• Diverse Curriculum: Wide range of dance styles and levels, accommodating various interests and developmental stages.
• Proven Success: Students progress to high school dance teams, professional training programs, and even professional careers in dance.
• Numerous Performance Opportunities: Regular chances for students to showcase their skills in annual productions like The Nutcracker and Spring Showcases.

For individuals and families in Chatsworth and the wider California region interested in learning more about the California Dance Academy, we invite you to connect with us. Our dedicated staff is always ready to provide detailed information about our classes, schedules, and enrollment options. Whether you're considering a free trial class or have specific questions about our pre-professional company, we are here to assist you. Feel free to call us or visit our welcoming studio to experience the unique atmosphere that makes CDA a beloved institution for dance education.

Contact Information:

• Address: 9741 Independence Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311, USA
• Phone: (818) 341-0525

In conclusion, for locals in Chatsworth and throughout the San Fernando Valley, California Dance Academy stands as an unparalleled choice for dance education. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique blend of top-tier technical training, particularly in ballet, combined with an incredibly supportive and family-oriented environment. Parents consistently praise the encouraging culture, the professionalism of the staff, and the tangible growth they see in their children—not just as dancers, but as confident and disciplined individuals. Whether a child dreams of dancing professionally, competing, or simply enjoying the art form, CDA provides a nurturing space where every ambition is valued and supported. The strong community feel, excellent facilities, and commitment to holistic development make California Dance Academy an ideal and highly recommended destination for any family seeking to foster a love of dance in their children.

California Dance Academy

9741 Independence Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311, USA