International Academy of Dance

- 320 Encinal St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

The International Academy of Dance (IAD) is a premier performing arts institution and ballet school nestled in the vibrant community of Santa Cruz, California. Founded on the principle of "dancing for the joy of it," IAD provides a nurturing and professional environment where students of all ages and levels can grow their skills, build confidence, and foster a lifelong passion for dance. As a women-owned business, the academy is dedicated to offering high-quality instruction across a diverse range of dance styles, with a strong foundation in classical ballet. From the earliest moments of a three-and-a-half-year-old’s first class to the dedicated training of a pre-professional dancer, IAD is committed to each student's journey. The studio’s curriculum is thoughtfully designed to not only teach technique but also to instill discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. Students have the incredible opportunity to participate in grand-scale productions, including the highly anticipated annual Nutcracker ballet, which allows them to showcase their talents in a professional setting. Beyond the stage, the studio actively engages in community outreach, solidifying its role as a key contributor to the local arts scene. By creating a warm, supportive, and safe space, IAD offers more than just dance classes; it builds a community where lasting friendships are formed and where every dancer is encouraged to be strong, graceful, and empowered, both on and off the stage. This commitment to holistic development, artistic excellence, and a positive atmosphere makes the International Academy of Dance a true gem in the heart of California's coastal community.

The International Academy of Dance is located at 320 Encinal St in Santa Cruz, California, making it a convenient and accessible destination for families throughout the region. The studio's location is a significant advantage, providing easy access from various neighborhoods and major roadways. The academy has made a clear commitment to inclusivity, with a range of accessibility features designed to ensure a seamless experience for all. The facility provides a wheelchair-accessible car park, which makes arrival and departure simple and stress-free. The building also has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all individuals can easily navigate their way into the studio. Once inside, the academy continues to demonstrate its dedication to accessibility with wheelchair-accessible seating in common areas and a wheelchair-accessible toilet. These features are a testament to the studio's inclusive philosophy, ensuring that everyone in the community, regardless of mobility challenges, can participate in and enjoy the world of dance. The combination of a central location and comprehensive accessibility makes International Academy of Dance a practical and welcoming choice for anyone in California seeking a high-quality dance education in an accommodating environment.

The International Academy of Dance offers a wide and impressive variety of dance, fitness, and performing arts classes for students of all ages and abilities. The curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded dance education while allowing dancers to specialize in their areas of interest. Here is a list of some of the services and programs available:

• Ballet Classes: From pre-ballet for young children to advanced classes, including pointe, graded programs, and pre-professional training.
• Diverse Dance Styles: Classes are offered in Jazz, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, Modern, Tap, and Aerial Dance, encouraging students to become versatile performers.
• Adult Classes: A variety of lessons tailored for adults, including ballet, group fitness, and Pilates classes, perfect for beginners or those returning to dance.
• Youth Classes: Specialized programs for children and teens, including a competition team and classes designed for high school students.
• Private Lessons: One-on-one instruction for personalized training and accelerated skill development.
• Summer Programs: A wide selection of Summer Dance Camps, classes, and intensives to keep dancers engaged and learning during the summer months.
• Performances: Opportunities for students to perform in professional-level productions, including the annual Nutcracker ballet.
• Online Classes: Offering a flexible option for students to continue their training from home.
• Pilates Classes and Dance Conditioning: Focused on physical training and injury prevention, these classes help dancers build strength and flexibility.
• Voice & Acting for Dancers: A unique offering that helps dancers become more well-rounded performers.
• Trial Class: A low-cost or free option to try a class to ensure the studio is a good fit.

International Academy of Dance is distinguished by a number of key features that contribute to its standing as a premier dance school in Santa Cruz. These highlights are what make the academy not just a place for learning, but a community for personal and artistic growth. Some of the most notable highlights include:

• Identifies as women-owned: The studio's leadership reflects a commitment to empowering women in business and the arts.
• On-site and online services: The flexible class options cater to various schedules and needs, making dance education accessible to more people.
• Good for kids: The studio has a strong reputation for being a safe, nurturing, and positive environment for children of all ages.
• Comprehensive accessibility: The provision of a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, seating, and toilet ensures an inclusive experience for all.
• Secure payment options: The studio accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions convenient and secure.
• Professional productions: The opportunity for students to perform in high-quality shows like the Nutcracker is a major highlight, giving them invaluable stage experience.
• Focus on injury prevention: The inclusion of classes like Pilates and the teachers' commitment to proper technique ensure the health and safety of their students, particularly for advanced training like pointe.

For more information, to inquire about specific class schedules, or to sign up for a trial class, you can easily contact the International Academy of Dance. The dedicated and professional staff are ready to assist you and provide details about their programs. Their contact information is as follows:

Address: 320 Encinal St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

Phone: (831) 466-0458

When selecting a dance studio in the Santa Cruz area, International Academy of Dance is an outstanding choice, and its value is best summarized by the trust and loyalty of its long-term families. The most compelling reason to choose IAD is the profound sense of trust and professionalism highlighted in customer reviews. One parent, whose daughter has been dancing at the academy for over a decade, perfectly encapsulates this, stating, "We completely trust the teachers there to correctly teach new techniques while at the same time preventing injury." This is a crucial factor, especially when it comes to milestone moments like going "en pointe," where expert guidance is paramount. The review also praises the staff as "professional and organized," which gives parents confidence and peace of mind, especially when their children are backstage during performances. The fact that the studio has "grown over the years" and has maintained a high level of quality for over a decade speaks volumes about its leadership and commitment to excellence. Another parent noted that their daughter "has gained so many skills in her first year," and that the productions are "amazing," demonstrating that IAD delivers on its promise of both technical growth and inspiring performance opportunities. The studio’s commitment to providing a trial class or week for a low price shows its confidence in its programs and allows new families to see the amazing environment for themselves without a big commitment. By choosing the International Academy of Dance, you are choosing a studio with a proven track record, a focus on student health and safety, and a passionate community that will support your child’s journey from their first dance steps to their most amazing performances, all while fostering a lifelong love for the art.

International Academy of Dance

320 Encinal St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA