O'Brien Center of the Arts

- 226 Petaluma Blvd N, Petaluma, CA 94952

The O'Brien Center of the Arts in Petaluma, California, is a true gem in the heart of Sonoma County's arts scene. While its name suggests a broad range of artistic endeavors, it is a renowned dance school that has become a second home for many dancers, from young children taking their first steps in ballet to advanced students preparing for professional careers. The center is a point of interest not just for its physical location but for the vibrant community and high-quality instruction it fosters. Under the dedicated leadership of Artistic Director Martha O'Brien, the studio has built a reputation for excellence, providing an environment that is both nurturing and challenging. It offers a variety of dance styles and unique opportunities that set it apart from other studios in the region, making it an essential destination for anyone in California with a passion for dance.

What makes the O'Brien Center of the Arts so special is its commitment to the individual growth of each dancer. The philosophy here is not just about technique; it's about fostering confidence, discipline, and a genuine love for the art form. This is a rare quality, as highlighted by a customer who stated that Martha O'Brien "truly values a dancer's heart and effort over their body type, which is so important and hard to find in the dance world." This emphasis on a positive body image and the intrinsic value of hard work creates an incredibly supportive environment where students feel seen and appreciated. This welcoming atmosphere is a recurring theme in reviews, with students describing the place as their "second home" and noting that "other students are extremely welcoming and kind."

The center also stands out for its diverse offerings. It's not just a ballet studio, but a place that offers "many styles as well as competition based dancing and large ballet productions," as one dedicated dancer shared. This variety provides a comprehensive dance education, allowing students to become well-rounded and versatile. The inclusion of large-scale productions gives dancers the invaluable experience of performing on a professional stage, which is a significant opportunity for aspiring artists. The presence of a variety of teachers also contributes to a rich and well-rounded learning experience, ensuring that students receive different perspectives and techniques to enhance their skills. This blend of styles and teachers, along with a focus on individual improvement, creates a dynamic and rewarding environment for all who participate.

Located at 226 Petaluma Blvd N, Petaluma, CA 94952, USA, the O'Brien Center of the Arts is conveniently situated in a central part of the city. For those in California, its location makes it an accessible option for dance students and their families from Petaluma and beyond. The center has made a conscious effort to be accessible to all members of the community, as evidenced by its wheelchair-accessible car park and wheelchair-accessible entrance. This thoughtful approach ensures that a wider audience can enjoy the benefits of dance education and participate in the studio's community. For parents, knowing that the studio is good for kids and has easy accessibility is a crucial factor in making a choice about their child's extracurricular activities.

Services Offered

• Classes For Kids: Structured dance classes designed specifically for younger students.
• Dance Classes: A wide range of classes for all ages and skill levels in various styles.
• Intensive Programs: Dedicated, immersive training for serious dancers to accelerate their progress.
• Summer Intensive Programs: Specialized summer courses that offer extra conditioning, master classes with guest teachers, and opportunities to try new forms of dance.

Features / Highlights

• An incredibly dedicated artistic director, Martha O'Brien, who is known for valuing a dancer's heart and effort over body type.
• Offers a variety of dance styles and is not limited to a single form.
• Provides opportunities for competition-based dancing and participation in large-scale ballet productions.
• Features a variety of teachers who provide efficient and effective corrections for continuous improvement.
• A welcoming and kind environment where students feel supported and at home.
• Good for kids, with programs designed to be engaging and beneficial for children.
• Accepts credit and debit cards for convenient payment.
• High degree of accessibility with a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance.

Contact Information

Address: 226 Petaluma Blvd N, Petaluma, CA 94952, USA

Phone: (707) 765-1771

Mobile Phone: +1 707-765-1771

What is worth choosing

Choosing the O'Brien Center of the Arts is a decision to join a community that truly cares about its members. The overwhelmingly positive reviews from real customers paint a clear picture of a place where professional instruction is balanced with a supportive and kind environment. Dancers consistently praise Artistic Director Martha O'Brien for her dedication and her focus on the individual, noting her kindness and her emphasis on a dancer's "heart and effort" over their physique. This is a refreshing and vital quality in the often-demanding world of dance, making it an excellent choice for parents seeking a healthy and encouraging atmosphere for their children.

The quality of instruction is also a significant factor. A long-time student noted that they had "seen the most improvement under this management" and were "continuously pushed and given the most efficient corrections from teachers." This demonstrates the high standard of teaching and the commitment to helping every student reach their full potential. The variety of classes, including intensive and summer programs, ensures that dancers of all levels can find a path for growth, whether they are a beginner or an aspiring professional. The opportunity to participate in large ballet productions is a unique and valuable experience that adds another layer to the students' training.

Beyond the instruction, the sense of community is a major draw. The description of the studio as a "second home" and the staff as "second moms" speaks volumes about the deep personal connections formed within the center. The kind and welcoming nature of the other students and staff members like Ms. Sharon, who makes costumes and provides support, creates an atmosphere that is both professional and familial. This blend of high-quality training and genuine care makes the O'Brien Center of the Arts not just a place to learn to dance, but a place to grow as a person. For anyone in Petaluma and the wider California area, this studio offers a truly exceptional and enriching experience.

O'Brien Center of the Arts

226 Petaluma Blvd N, Petaluma, CA 94952, USA