Malashock Dance School

Nestled within the vibrant Arts District at Liberty Station, Malashock Dance School is a cornerstone of San Diego's dynamic dance community. For residents across the California region, this esteemed institution offers a unique and enriching opportunity to explore the art of movement, whether you're taking your very first dance steps or refining advanced techniques. Part of the larger Malashock Dance organization, founded in 1988 by the illustrious John Malashock, the school embodies a mission to illuminate the power of dance as an invaluable part of the human experience. It is a gathering place where passion meets instruction, where creativity is nurtured, and where individuals of all ages and abilities can find a sense of belonging and joy through dance. Malashock Dance School is more than just a place to learn steps; it's a community dedicated to fostering personal expression, discipline, and a lifelong love for the performing arts.

Malashock Dance School is ideally located at 2650 Truxtun Rd #104, San Diego, CA 92106, USA, within the historic and culturally rich Liberty Station. This prime location in Point Loma makes it incredibly accessible for locals throughout San Diego and the surrounding areas. Liberty Station itself is a thriving hub of arts, culture, dining, and recreation, offering ample parking options for visitors, which is a significant convenience for students attending classes. The studio is situated amidst other artistic organizations within the Dorothea Laub Dance Place, creating a collaborative and inspiring atmosphere for dancers. For those utilizing public transportation, Liberty Station is served by various bus routes, making it reachable even without a car. Its proximity to major roadways ensures a straightforward drive from different San Diego neighborhoods. This central and vibrant setting not only provides a beautiful backdrop for dance education but also allows students to be part of a larger artistic ecosystem, enriching their overall experience.

Services Offered:

• Diverse Adult Dance Classes: Malashock Dance School offers a wide range of adult dance classes for various skill levels, including Beginning Ballet for Teens & Adults (ages 13+), Intermediate Contemporary, Open Company Class, Beginning/Intermediate Jazz, Contemporary Modern, Beginning Modern for Teens & Adults, Afro-Modern with Dunham Roots, and Beginning/Intermediate Ballet. These classes are designed to challenge both mind and body.
• Youth Dance Programs: For younger dancers, the school provides structured programs such as Creative Dance 1 (ages 3-4), Creative Dance 2 (ages 4-5), All Levels Ballet (ages 8-12), All Levels Jazz (ages 8-18), All Levels Hip Hop (ages 8-18), and Pre-Ballet.
• Inclusive Dance Programs: A notable service is "Dance ABILITY," an energetic and inclusive dance class specifically designed for dancers ages 12+ with cognitive disabilities. This program focuses on enhancing flexibility, balance, and gross motor skills in a safe and supportive environment, fostering social skills and a sense of belonging.
• Professional Development Workshops: Malashock Dance offers professional development workshops for dance teachers, focusing on inclusive practices, building student trust, classroom management, and best practices for in-school instruction.
• Company Class Access: Experienced dancers have the unique opportunity to attend "Open Company Class," led by the Artistic Director, which prepares dancers for the company's repertoire and creative processes.
• Collaborative Projects and Performances: As part of Malashock Dance, students and company members participate in diverse performances and collaborative projects with other major arts organizations, such as the San Diego Symphony, San Diego Opera, and La Jolla Playhouse.
• Education Outreach Programs: Malashock Dance facilitates unique, in-school and after-school outreach programs like "Math in Motion," providing free or low-cost dance programming to communities lacking affordable arts education.
• Studio Rentals: The state-of-the-art studio space is also available for rentals, providing a versatile venue for various dance and movement needs.

Features / Highlights:

• Exceptional and Welcoming Instructors: Teachers like Maria Benjamin are praised as "amazing" and "so welcoming," creating a positive and encouraging environment where students feel supported and motivated. Their ability to challenge both mind and body is a key highlight.
• Renowned Artistic Leadership: Founded by six-time Emmy-winning choreographer John Malashock, and now under the Artistic Direction of Christopher Kaui Morgan, the school benefits from a legacy of artistic excellence and innovation.
• Diverse and Inclusive Programs: Malashock Dance believes "dance belongs to everyone" and actively designs for inclusivity, regardless of race, ability, or background. The "Dance ABILITY" program is a testament to this commitment.
• Holistic Development: Beyond teaching dance technique, the school fosters personal development, helping students improve fitness, express themselves, get grounded, inspired, and build confidence, discipline, and a sense of belonging.
• State-of-the-Art Facility: Located at Dance Place San Diego in Liberty Station, the school boasts a "state-of-art studio space" which enhances the learning experience.
• Connection to a Professional Dance Company: Students have the unique advantage of being connected to Malashock Dance, a professional modern dance company renowned for creating over 100 original works and performing widely. This provides inspiration and potential pathways for advanced students.
• Community Engagement and Outreach: Malashock Dance maintains a strong connection to the San Diego community through extensive outreach programs, bringing dance education to schools and underserved areas.
• Emphasis on Creativity and Personal Expression: The classes encourage students to "bring their entire selves into the class and express themselves without inhibition," fostering authentic artistic exploration.

Contact Information:

Address: 2650 Truxtun Rd #104, San Diego, CA 92106, USA

Phone: (619) 260-1622

For locals in the California region, particularly those in and around San Diego, Malashock Dance School offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the art of dance. Its prime location within the vibrant Liberty Station Arts District makes it incredibly accessible, allowing residents to easily integrate dance classes into their lives while also enjoying the surrounding cultural amenities. What truly sets Malashock Dance School apart and makes it so suitable for the local community is its deep-rooted philosophy that "dance belongs to everyone." This commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its diverse class offerings, catering to all ages and abilities, including specialized programs like "Dance ABILITY" for individuals with cognitive disabilities.

The school's legacy, guided by the vision of John Malashock and now Christopher Kaui Morgan, ensures a consistent standard of artistic excellence and innovation. Students benefit from the expertise of "amazing" and "welcoming" instructors who not only impart strong technique but also inspire personal growth, confidence, and self-expression. For parents in San Diego, knowing their children are in an environment that fosters discipline, creativity, and a love for movement in a supportive community is invaluable. For adults, it's a chance to challenge themselves, unwind, and connect with others through the power of dance. Whether aspiring to a professional career, seeking a creative outlet, or simply looking to enhance well-being, Malashock Dance School provides a nurturing and enriching experience that makes it a true gem for the San Diego community.

Malashock Dance School

2650 Truxtun Rd #104, San Diego, CA 92106, USA