Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Gayton Dance Studio - Dance Classes for All Ages in Northglenn, CO
Gayton Dance Studio has been a family-owned institution in Northglenn, Colorado since 1975, dedicated to providing exceptional dance education for students of all ages and skill levels. Our experienced instructors emphasize proper technique, artistic expression, and physical development through diverse styles including ballet, hip-hop, jazz, and contemporary. We foster a welcoming environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion, preparing students not just as dancers but as confident individuals ready to excel in all aspects of life. With over four decades of community involvement, we remain committed to nurturing passion and discipline through the art of dance. 
Services
Ballet Classes
Hip-Hop Dance
Jazz Instruction
Contemporary Dance
Tap Classes
Tots Program
Adult Fitness
Poms Prep
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- 49 years of excellence in dance education with expert instructors
- Small class sizes ensuring personalized attention for every student
- Comprehensive training from toddler classes to professional development
- Proven track record preparing dancers for professional performance teams
- Inclusive environment promoting diversity, equity, and community values
What people say
Amazing instructors
Small class sizes
Excellent training
Welcoming environment
Performance opportunities
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet curriculum focuses on postural alignment, proper technique, and musicality while encouraging natural movement. Students develop foundational skills through structured warm-ups, barre work, and center combinations. Classes emphasize both traditional methods and creative expression for ages 3 to adult.
Hip-Hop Dance
High-energy hip-hop classes teach current choreography, street funk, and classic pop-and-lock techniques. Instructors blend old-school moves with modern trends in a dynamic environment. Classes cater to all skill levels while preparing advanced students for performance opportunities.
Jazz Instruction
Jazz classes combine technical training with athletic conditioning, focusing on jumps, turns, and contemporary combinations. Students build strength and flexibility through warm-up exercises and learn choreography that emphasizes stage presence and performance quality.
Contemporary Dance
Lyrical/contemporary classes integrate ballet, jazz, and modern techniques to develop emotional expression through movement. Designed for intermediate/advanced students, these classes require concurrent enrollment in ballet or jazz for proper technical development.
Tots Program
Introduction to dance for ages 3-4 combining tap, ballet, and jazz fundamentals. Structured to develop coordination, listening skills, and musicality through playful, age-appropriate activities. Classes include creative movement and basic technique instruction.
People
Jody Gayton
Owner and Operator
Jody has owned Gayton Dance for 49 years, advocating for arts education in public schools. She teaches at multiple North Metro area schools and has dedicated her career to dance education since 1975.
Santana Trujillo
Artistic Director
BFA graduate from AMDA College, Santana is a professional choreographer and Head Varsity Poms Coach at Horizon High School. She continues the Gayton legacy through innovative dance instruction and community engagement.
Katie Villela
Ballet Instructor
Colorado native with an Associates Degree in Dance and 10 years as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Former Varsity Poms member and Moscow Ballet performer, specializing in classical ballet technique.
Questions
Do I need previous dance experience to join classes?
No prior experience required. We welcome beginners at all ages and provide progressive training from introductory to advanced levels.
What are class sizes like at Gayton Dance Studio?
Classes maintain 8-12 students to ensure personalized attention while fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Are there performance opportunities available?
Yes! Our performance teams regularly appear at Denver Nuggets games, Denver Fashion Week, and Royal Caribbean cruises.
What is the studio's dress code policy?
Specific dress codes apply by class type: black leotards/tights for ballet, tight-fitting black clothing for jazz, and athletic wear for hip-hop.
How do students join the Production Company?
No formal tryouts required. Instructors evaluate readiness and communicate promotion opportunities directly to students.
