Dancenter

Dancenter offers classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Latin, Belly Dance, Yoga, and Pre-dance. Dancers can begin with pre-dance and later choose graded classes in ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, modern, and Latin dance. The program also includes classes for adults and dancers with disabilities, as well as options to participate in companies or Ballet Repertory and attend dance conventions, master classes, and work toward competing in the YAGP ballet competition.

• Ages: 3–18 years old
• Schedule: Six-week summer session from June 22nd to August 1st, with office hours on Saturday 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. and Monday–Friday 3:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m., and studio hours Monday–Friday 1 p.m.–9 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Dancenter has been celebrating dance since 1986 and is the oldest continuously owned dance studio in Santa Cruz County. The studios have state-of-the-art sprung floors covered with Marley where applicable, and the dancers’ safety and well-being are stated as the primary focus. Teachers are trained professionals, many with degrees in dance, theatre, and related subjects. Ruth Fisher introduced dance for preschoolers to the recreation departments of Santa Cruz County more than thirty years ago, and when she opened Dancenter, her goal was to include everyone in the community who would like to dance. The mission states that all abilities, ages, shapes, and sizes are welcome, and that dance is for everybody. Each June, Dancenter provides a showcase opportunity for all dancers to participate at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, and teen dancers are encouraged to choreograph and present their work at Choreography Night. The program participates in festivals and community events around the Bay Area, including the Capitola Art and Wine Festival, National Dance Week, Great America, MAH, and Santana Row's Dancing at the Row. Families are directed to check the “What to Wear” page so dancers are ready for class.

Last updated April 8, 2026.