CLASSES + CAMPS
Ballet classes
The Ballet School at Tiffany’s Dance Academy provides dancers with a solid base from which to grow in an informed, technical environment. We focus on understanding how dance shapes and forms the body. And, how it releases tension. This allows dancers to move efficiently. Dancers are trained to approach varying dance styles.
The faculty draws on the Vagonova, Ceccetti, and French traditions, as well as knowledge gained from years of study in the American dance world where these traditions are blended to produce dancers who are unaffected by a particular style.
OUR BALLET CLASSES
+ Mini and Junior Ballet
Ages 5-7 and 7-9
The Pre-Ballet Program fosters musicality, body awareness, and movement potential in a format that encourages individual artistry. Inspired by the work of Rudolf Von Laban and Irmgard Bartinieff, the class explores the elements of dance; Body, Space, Force, and Time, through creative exercises that are movement focused rather than story focused. The knowledge gained in these classes prepares the student for the attention to detail required in the study of formal ballet training. Research shows that children who begin training with informed creative movement classes are more successful when placed in a traditional technique class.
+ Basic Ballet
Ages 9-11
Prerequisite: Mini and Junior Ballet
This level emphasizes correct postural alignment, principles of turn-out, balance, control, and elementary barre exercises. Center work consists of a repetition of barre work, carriage of the arms, and positions of the body in relationship to the eight points of focus of the stage.
+ Ballet I
Ages 9-11
Prerequisite: Basic Ballet
Building on the foundation set by Basic Ballet, barre work exercises become more complex and of a longer duration to train muscle memory and increase flexibility. Special emphasis is placed on the dancer’s ability to connect and link steps for fluid movement, memorize patterns, and move through space while maintaining proper alignment. At this level we encourage the dancer to examine the combinations and plan ahead for self-correction. This level is typically repeated.
+ Ballet II
Prerequisite: Ballet I
At this level, there is a marked developmental leap, both in the technical aspects of class and in the seriousness with which training is taken by the dancer. This is the age when the young dancer begins to evaluate past experiences in dance and to question whether or not a career would be desirable. Training intensifies to match this period of self-evaluation. All past work is repeated in more complex combinations increasing strength, endurance, stamina and ability to link steps together in a fluid manner. Understanding of motivation, movement goals, imagery, and presentation are stressed in order to develop better artistic expression. Pre- pointe is introduced at this level. This level is typically repeated. Evaluation for full pointe work is conducted at the end of the 2nd year.
+ Ballet III
Prerequisite: Ballet II
From this level forward the plasticity, coordination and smooth connection of movements of the arms, legs, feet, head, and body is the primary developmental goal. Rhythmic patterns are emphasized and attention is given to aiding the dancer’s ability to “tune in” to muscular feelings. Emphasis is placed on greater stability and complexity in the study of adagio and developing the smooth, graceful and subtle qualities in movement. Study of turning in open positions is part of the daily routine at this level, as is the study of battu, petite allegro, and grand allegro. Regular and repeated reference will be made to facilitate the dancer’s understanding of movement goals and ability to “self correct”.
+ Ballet IV/V
Prerequisite: Ballet II
The upper levels of Tiffany’s Dance Academy ballet students are self-motivated and take ballet technique classes up to 5 days per week. Levels IV/V are sometimes combined and other times separated as needed by the dancers to best challenge and refine technique. Advanced dancers are encouraged to wear pointe shoes when requested by the instructor.
+ BOYS BALLET
With a strong male ballet faculty, Tiffany’s Dance Academy offers Boys technique classes in order to build the specific strength and skills required for male dancers. Boys technique classes focus on upper body strength-building required for partnering, grand allegro and covers all male-specific jumps and turns.
+ POINTE
All students at TDA will be evaluated by the Program Director and dance medicine specialist Dr. Selina before they graduate to full pointe work. Pointe classes are offered separately from regular technique classes in order to safely build the strength required for full pointe work. Pointe Levels A, B, and C may be repeated based on the specific needs of each dancer, and advanced dancers are encouraged to wear their pointe shoes in all technique classes.
Performance Opportunities
Tiffany’s Dance Academy offers more performance opportunities than your average dance studio. These include an annual Nutcracker, Performing Company Showcase, Spring Recital, and Regional Dance Conventions and Competitions for those who join the Performing Company.
Beyond TDA
Dancers trained in the program are accepted to various summer and year-round programs including the San Francisco Ballet School, Joffrey Ballet School, Boston Ballet School, Arts Umbrella in Vancouver, Canada as well as collegiate dance programs including The University of Arizona, the University of California Irvine, the University of California Santa Barbara, NYU and Chapman University.
THE BALLET SCHOOL PERFORMANCE VIDEOS
Amie Kilgore and TDA Instructor Cesar Degollado perform The Snow Queen in Tiffany's Dance Academy's production of The Nutcracker.
Tiffany's Dance Academy Performing Company dancers perform a segment of Swan Lake during a performance at Chabot Theater in Hayward in 2018.
Sample ballet video of Tiffany's Dance Academy's production of The Nutcracker 2019 / Waltz of the Flowers
Young dancers at Tiffany's Dance Academy perform in The Greatest Show.
FIND YOUR STUDIO TO REGISTER TODAY
Tiffany’s Dance Academy has four locations in the San Francisco Bay Area. Click on your location below to learn more and register for a class!
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING
My two daughters dance at the Livermore location and we absolutely love the staff. The teachers are wonderful ... My girls have improved so much. Mrs Vanessa (front desk) is the best, she is super helpful and always has a smile on her face.
Binh P.
I was recently visiting family in Livermore and was blown away by my two nieces performance at their dance recital. Amazing! But perhaps I shouldn't have been surprised as my nieces are always raving about their dance classes every time we talk or Skype. It's all they want to talk about. It was also nice to finally put a face to this Tiffany lady that they talk about incessantly. She couldn't have been nicer.
Alan B.
I signed my daughter up a few years ago and didn't expect her to love it as much as she did. The teachers have all been amazing-- so patient and kind to the children. Its definitely more of a professional school to enroll your child in. There is constant communication of what is going on, so they definitely keep us on track when there's so much else going on in our lives. I recommend Tiffany's to all of my friends!
D.J.
We love Tiffany Dance Academy! We've had our two girls in their studios for over six years and continue to be impressed with them. There isn't excessive pressure on the studios that you see at some studios and yet the results I've seen are fantastic. The staff is wonderful as well, from the teachers to administrative team to those running the business. Really looking forward to my kids continuing to grow with them over the years.
Cali B.
Our daughter started dance at Tiffany’s when she was only 2 years old and has loved every minute of it! Now 4 years old and dance class is the highlight of her week. The instructors here are so kind, caring and patient and it amazes me how much they have taught my daughter! Definitely would recommend this dance studio to anyone looking to get started!
Michael J.
This is a perfect place with perfect mentors to help my child perform very well in his field of interest. One of the best things is responsible and helpful staff.
Abston J.
My daughter has been coming here since she was 3 years old. She's been enrolled in Ms Katy's class ever since she first started. Ms Katy is so patient with the kids and an amazing instructor. My daughter also has ms Shannon. So far all the teachers has been great along with ms Iris.
Jenny L.
Tiffany's Dance Academy is a great place for kids to learn how to dance! It is amazing to see my daughter learn and have so much fun at the same time. Kudos to the teachers for being so patient with so many tiny children. I love watching my little girl return home so happy!
Liliya D.
My daughter has been dancing with Tiffany's for the past 7 years. It has been amazing to watch her growth over the years. She has developed many friendships and increased self confidence. For this alone I am totally grateful. Overall I couldn't be happier here. It feels like a small family. Most important my daughter is happy here.
Rebecca S.
My daughter and I love this place! I am more than grateful for all they have done for my daughter and I! We have had nothing but great experiences here! :)
Marie S.
Teachers for the young ballet class are very professional and patient, very good with little ones. Highly recommended for others looking for first dance classes for their princesses
Chian R.
We love TDA in South San Francisco! My child has been attending for over a year and we enjoy all the fun dances in the Twinkle Babies class. They supply different props (bells, headbands, wands, scarves, etc) for different dances and always make classes fun!
Eileen T.
My daughter has been a student here for over a year now. She loves dancing here and is always very excited to take classes here every Saturday morning. My daughter loves her teachers and the staff is very nice. I have recommended one of my daughter's friends to join the school recently. They love the school as well.
Cynthia N.
My child is attending TDA and she always comes home bubbling with excitement. She has a lot of fun and she is learning a ton. This is a successful dance school where the kids are having a good time and learning the skills to become real dancers. Angelica loves Miss Ruth and asks to go to dance class every day. Anything that is teaching my child and giving her exercise at the same time is a great thing in my eyes.
Paige A.
My wife and I have been taking our daughter to Tiffany's Dance Academy for two years now and we couldn't be happier. She recently had her "Big Show" and it was amazing. I'm so proud of her and the hard work she has put in. Her teacher is wonderful and patient and we couldn't ask for a better experience!
Breshvic P.
Well, my daughter did love her classes. Ms. Claire was wonderful. She is such a talented teacher. I would say that she was our favorite! She is so patient and kind with little girls and does miracle organizing them, and her classes are so much fun.
Kate B.
I have been dancing at Tiffany's since I was 5 and I've always LOVED it the teachers are the greatest and Ms. Ruth is sooo sweet. I could never leave Tiffany's I learn so much and I improve everyday it's a great place to take your kids to dance because it is a happy environment and they will learn so much! I have enjoyed every minute of dancing at Tiffany's it's the place to go.
Gwen T.
My daughter has done a whole year with them on her second year and princess camp. Absolutely love this place!...super excited about this year!! Love her teachers thus far!!
Rachel P.
My daughter has a lot of fun here. She dances with Ms. Stephanie and loves her! We are not in it for my daughter to become a professional ballerina. She just wants to dance with no pressure, and feel like part of a team/family. At this studio she can dance in a relaxed atmosphere with a couple of recitals a year.
Malika A.
We loved TDA before covid but have even more respect for them as they've figured out how to keep things fun and consistent. My daughter has loved every teacher she has had and the staff is wonderful to work with.
Natalie H.
Our family has been sending out girls to Tiffany Dance Academy for six years and we cannot say enough great things about all their studios. The San Ramon location is great. It's a nice spacious studio room with easy parking. The instructors are great dance teachers while also being caring and connecting with the students.
Cali B.
We LOVE Tiffany's! Very professional! Teachers and all staff are very nice. I've attended a few other events from other dance studios in the area and it does not compare! Thank you Tiffany's for all that you do!
Leslee M.
Classes are still on so if you were thinking about joining or coming back I highly recommend. Personally i cant wait to see the virtual recital in August and am blown away the planning that has happened to make that occur. Im rambling in my gushing now but it has been such an honor, THANK YOU TIFFANY'S!!!!!
Gwenn E.
My daughter has been dancing here for over 5 years, and I must admit, I have been dancing here for three years (Daddy/Daughter Dances). This school rocks. All of the instructors are top notch, Tiffany and her husband Paul are great, and we are glad to be a part of the TDA family. Choose TDA ... you won't be sorry.
Mike D.
Both my daughters dance here every week. My 3 year old and my 5 year old. They love it and have the best teacher, Ms. Tori. She is patient and real! You can tell she enjoys being with the kids. I would not send my children anywhere else for dance lessons.
Elizabeth D.
It is adorable. We moved from Modesto where my daughter had been in a dance school for two years. She is getting so much more from dance here at Tiffany's! My daughter has so much fun, learns the proper forms of ballet and tap and also learns great team work encouraging her classmates ... we love it here!
K.M.F.
I am new to the area and a school friend recommended Tiffany's Dance in Pleasanton. The Studio Director, Danielle, is amazingly efficient, friendly and always willing to help. My daughter loves her teachers and the costumes, although a little pricey, for the recital are adorable. It's worth it to see her love of dance growing thanks to the dedication and care at this studio. I am very pleased and we look forward to signing up next season!
Dani M.
My daughter has Josh for her first time in a dance class. He is an amazing teacher, with focus and really cares about his students and dance! After just one session with Josh, my daughter is dancing so beautifully.
Karen M.
I love it here! Great teachers! Great office staff! We've been dancing here for a few years and my daughters both love it! They have Hip Hop classes. The shows are really top notch! We are always greeted by smiles and it's just the friendliest cutest place!
Maddy W.
