San Jose Dance Theatre

Welcome to San Jose Dance Theatre (SJDT), a premier dance academy and cultural institution nestled in the vibrant city of San Jose, California. For families and aspiring dancers across the Silicon Valley, SJDT offers an unparalleled environment for artistic development, fostering not just technical excellence but also strong character and a lifelong passion for dance. We understand that selecting a dance studio involves seeking a place that harmonizes rigorous training with a supportive community, and SJDT consistently exceeds these expectations.

Since 1965, San Jose Dance Theatre has been a cornerstone of the South Bay's cultural landscape, enriching the community through accessible performances, exceptional training, and creative outreach. As a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, SJDT is deeply committed to promoting the positive impact of dance in Silicon Valley. Our mission is to illuminate the human experience through movement and music, nurturing an appreciation for the arts among a diverse and expanding audience.

Under the guidance of a remarkable team of professionals, including the acclaimed Brooke Wertwijn (who has served as Academy Director and co-directed The Nutcracker), SJDT provides an environment where dancers thrive. Our faculty comprises professional and college-educated dancers, ensuring that students receive instruction of the highest caliber. What truly sets SJDT apart is its dedication to a supportive and organized experience for both students and parents, a rare gem in the dance world. This nurturing approach helps young dancers not only develop their ballet technique but also indirectly grow their character during vital formative years.

From foundational ballet to contemporary dance and conditioning, SJDT offers comprehensive programs for all ages and levels, providing innovative opportunities for dancers to flourish. This overview aims to introduce you to the spirit of excellence, community, and artistic passion that makes San Jose Dance Theatre a beloved and well-regarded destination for dance education and performance in the California region.

San Jose Dance Theatre (SJDT) is conveniently located at 1756 Junction Ave E, San Jose, CA 95112, USA. This strategic address places our state-of-the-art facility in a highly accessible area of San Jose, making it a convenient destination for dance students and their families from across the Silicon Valley. Whether you reside within San Jose or in neighboring communities such as Santa Clara, Milpitas, Sunnyvale, or Fremont, our studio’s location ensures a straightforward and efficient commute.

Junction Avenue East provides excellent road access to our facility. For those traveling by car, SJDT offers plenty of free parking, a significant convenience for students and parents, especially given the intensive training schedules many students undertake. This ample parking helps to streamline arrivals and departures, reducing stress and allowing families to focus on the dance experience. We understand that ease of access is a crucial factor for busy Californian families, and our location has been thoughtfully chosen to minimize travel time and logistical challenges.

While driving is a common mode of transportation for many of our students, San Jose also offers various public transportation options. Local bus routes may provide connections within proximity to our studio. We recommend consulting current VTA (Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority) schedules and routes for the most up-to-date public transport information. Additionally, ride-sharing services are widely available in this well-connected part of California, offering flexible alternatives for those who prefer not to drive. Our commitment to providing a welcoming and accessible learning environment extends to ensuring that our physical location, with its "great new facilities," is a comfortable and efficient hub for the local dance community. The presence of a "big break room where I can work while waiting or dancers can do homework and eat, too" further enhances the convenience and comfort for families.

At San Jose Dance Theatre (SJDT), we offer a comprehensive suite of dance education and performance services designed to cater to a wide range of ages, skill levels, and artistic aspirations. Our programs are structured to provide excellence in training while fostering a supportive and enriching environment.

• Ballet Training: SJDT is renowned for its premier ballet training academy. We provide a well-rounded ballet education with exposure to various training techniques, including Vaganova, Cecchetti, ABT, and Balanchine. This diverse approach ensures students gain a comprehensive understanding of classical ballet.

• Pre-Professional Programs: For serious students, our academy offers intensive programs designed to train dancers for professional careers. This includes rigorous daily classes, fostering a deep passion and commitment to dance.

• Diverse Dance Forms: Beyond classical ballet, our programs offer instruction in a variety of other essential dance forms, including:

  • Pointe and Pas de Deux: Advanced classical ballet techniques crucial for aspiring professionals.
  • Modern Dance: Exploring expressive and contemporary movement.
  • Jazz: Focusing on dynamic and rhythmic styles.
  • Mat Class and Progressive Ballet Technique: Conditioning and strengthening programs vital for injury prevention and enhanced performance.

• Open Division Program and Drop-In Classes: SJDT offers an "Open Division program for students that wish to study ballet and other dance forms in a flexible schedule." This includes drop-in classes, providing accessibility for students with varying commitments or those wishing to try out the program before committing to a full academy schedule.

• Summer Intensives: Providing concentrated training opportunities during the summer months, allowing students to deepen their skills and explore intensive study, as noted by a parent whose daughter "developed a super passion for dance and joined their summer intensive."

• Youth and Teen Programs: Classes are available for various age groups, from early childhood (e.g., "age 4") through teenage years, ensuring age-appropriate and progressive instruction.

• Performance Opportunities: SJDT provides extensive performance possibilities. Students have at least "2 performance a year and the occasions increase as dancer grows to higher levels." The highlight is "The Nutcracker," a legendary production held at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, running for "two weekends with 9 shows in a theater for about 2500 people." Other performances like "The Wizard of Oz Ballet" are also presented.

• Master Classes: Occasional "masters classes add even more variety to the mix," bringing in guest instructors to provide fresh perspectives and specialized training.

• Volunteer Opportunities for Parents: SJDT encourages parental involvement, allowing parents to "be part of the school by volunteering," for example, as "stage crew volunteer," which provides a unique way to share the experience with their dancing children.

These comprehensive services highlight SJDT's dedication to providing a holistic and world-class dance education and performance experience for the San Jose community.

San Jose Dance Theatre (SJDT) stands out as a truly exceptional dance institution in California, distinguished by several key features and highlights that contribute to its sterling reputation and the success of its students.

• Professional and College-Educated Faculty: A defining highlight is SJDT's faculty. As one parent noted, "teachers who I think are all professional dancers (and college educated as well!)." This ensures students receive instruction from highly qualified individuals who bring both practical experience and theoretical knowledge to their teaching. Specific mentions include Linda Hurkmans for classical ballet, Kim Gardner for conditioning and injury prevention, and Sian Ferguson for contemporary classes, among "many other excellent teachers."

• Exceptional Leadership and Administration: The organization's strong administrative backbone is a rare and highly valued asset. "SJDT was a pleasant surprise. They are not only wonderful in teaching dance... but they are organized, professional and supportive to students and parents." The former Academy Director, Brooke Wertwijn, is particularly praised as "a gem, responds to emails right away (a rarity), and very accommodating and flexible," setting a high standard for professional communication and support.

• Supportive and Nurturing Environment: Despite the rigorous training, SJDT fosters a deeply supportive atmosphere. Students describe it as feeling "like family from day one." The "main values which are about learning through very supportive environment and family matters the most" resonate with parents, indicating a focus on well-being alongside technical development. "Corrections and guidance is given in a way that it's understandable and age appropriate."

• Holistic Student Development: SJDT's impact extends beyond dance technique. It helps "mold her personality, knowledge and values," and contributes to "huge growth of confidence." Students grow from being "rather shy" to "just smiling and fully enjoying herself on the stage," demonstrating the positive influence on character development during vital formative years.

• High-Quality Facilities: The school boasts "great new facilities," including "large class rooms and appropriate equipment for the dancers." The "big break room" is a popular feature, allowing parents to work and dancers to do homework, highlighting the practical consideration for families.

• Legendary Performance Opportunities: SJDT is renowned for its "great performance possibilities," particularly "The Nutcracker," which is a "legendary" production held at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts. This grand-scale event, running for "two weekends with 9 shows in a theater for about 2500 people," provides an unparalleled stage experience for dancers and is a cherished holiday tradition for the community.

• Community Engagement and Parental Involvement: The opportunity for parents to volunteer, such as being a "stage crew volunteer," allows them to "be part of the school" and share the experience with their children, fostering a strong sense of community and connection.

These features collectively define SJDT as a truly exceptional and enriching institution for dance in San Jose.

For detailed information regarding class schedules, enrollment, summer intensives, performance dates, or any other inquiries about our diverse dance programs and facility rentals, please do not hesitate to contact San Jose Dance Theatre using the information provided below. Our dedicated and professional team is prepared to assist you and guide you through the process of joining our vibrant dance community.

Address:
1756 Junction Ave E,
San Jose, CA 95112, USA

Phone:
(408) 286-9905

Mobile Phone:
+1 408-286-9905

We highly encourage prospective students and parents to reach out to us by phone during our operating hours. Speaking directly with our administrative team or former Academy Director Brooke Wertwijn will allow us to understand your specific dance goals, whether for recreational enjoyment, pre-professional training, or participation in our grand productions. We are committed to providing clear, professional, and helpful information to ensure a smooth and informed start to your dance journey. Your path to artistic excellence, personal growth, and becoming part of San Jose's cherished dance tradition is just a phone call away!

In conclusion, San Jose Dance Theatre (SJDT) stands as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended event venue and educational institution for locals in the California region, particularly those residing in San Jose and its vibrant surrounding communities. Its prime location at 1756 Junction Ave E, San Jose, CA 95112, USA, offers excellent accessibility and ample free parking, making it a convenient choice for families navigating busy schedules.

The core suitability of SJDT for local users lies in its remarkable blend of professional excellence and a profoundly supportive environment. The academy boasts a faculty of professional, college-educated dancers who provide "top-notch training" in various techniques, from Vaganova ballet to contemporary and conditioning. This high caliber of instruction ensures that students, regardless of their starting level, receive the best possible guidance to develop their skills.

Beyond technical training, SJDT is praised for its exceptional administration, described as "organized, professional and supportive to students and parents." The personalized attention, accommodating approach, and quick communication from leaders like Brooke Wertwijn create a rare and valued experience for local families. This supportive atmosphere helps to "grow confidence" and "mold personality, knowledge and values," ensuring that students develop holistically during their formative years.

Furthermore, SJDT offers unparalleled performance opportunities. Its annual production of "The Nutcracker" at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts is a cherished local tradition, providing students with the invaluable experience of performing in a major professional setting to an audience of thousands. This, combined with other showcases and master classes, creates a dynamic and enriching artistic journey. The modern facilities, including spacious classrooms and a convenient break room, further enhance the experience for both dancers and waiting parents. For any local resident in San Jose and the wider California area looking for a dance academy that combines artistic rigor, administrative excellence, and a truly nurturing community, San Jose Dance Theatre is undoubtedly a premier choice and comes with the highest recommendation.

San Jose Dance Theatre

1756 Junction Ave E, San Jose, CA 95112, USA