Dance Evolution Studios

Dance Evolution Studio offers classical ballet instruction along with recreational dance and fitness classes. The program also includes summer camps, meditation and mindfulness practices, and strength conditioning and testing.

• Ages: 1–18 years old
• Schedule: Week long day camps for ages 5–16

Dance Evolution Studio has offered classical ballet instruction as a premier dance studio in Sonoma County since 2005, when it was founded as Santa Rosa Dance Theater by Adele Davalos Mitchell. In 2017, Tamara retired and the studio was guided through summer 2024 by Joshua Trader and Marit VanderWolde Trader, who then brought on Dr. Christa Christianson as the new Owner and Artistic Director. The studio is owned by a Doctor of Physical Therapy, all faculty are former professional dancers, and instructors are wellness practitioners. The mission of Dance Evolution Studio is to use scientific practice and holistic care to help dancers prevent injuries, train smarter, and perform stronger for longer, healthier, and more fulfilling careers and experiences.

The technique taught at the studio is designed by Artistic Advisor Miss A, described as a science-based dance master, with a focus on science-based ballet technique, movement quality, progressive technique, and wellness. Dance Evolution Studio offers a year-long classical ballet curriculum for ages 6–18 in its Academy Division and recreational dance and fitness classes starting at 12 months old through its Open Division. The studio also offers week long day summer camps for ages 5–16 and provides a free trial class option. Goals stated by the studio include creating strong dancers and individuals, encouraging a lifelong ability to dance, creating a family focused environment, promoting mental, physical, and emotional health, making technique and training enjoyable, creating a space for all dancers regardless of age, body, or gender, encouraging personal and professional growth, establishing an environment of peace, and creating a community among DES dancers and family.

Dance Evolution Studio annually presents the holiday classic “The Nutcracker,” as well as family-friendly, abbreviated classical ballets each May that feature DES student dancers.

Last updated March 28, 2026.