Business Details
36 Years
experience
Premier Dance School in Cupertino for All Ages
Dance Academy USA has been a cornerstone of dance education since 1990, founded by James and Jane Carter with a vision to create an inclusive community centered on dance, teamwork, and personal growth. Over three decades, weve grown into the largest and most respected dance program in the Bay Area, offering over 180 classes weekly for ages 3 - 17 and adults. Our state-of-the-art facility in Cupertino, CA, houses a comprehensive curriculum spanning 20+ dance styles, from ballet to breakdance, taught by award-winning instructors.Recognized nationally by Dance Teacher Magazine, we prioritize safety, technical excellence, and character development, fostering lifelong friendships and confidence in every student. With a legacy of nurturing award-winning dancers and a commitment to accessibility, we remain a parent-trusted institution dedicated to making dance a transformative experience for all.
Services
Ballet
Hip Hop
Breakdance
Acro
Tap
Lyrical/Contemporary
Jazz
K-Pop
Musical Theater
Adult Fitness
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of excellence in dance education since 1990
- State-of-the-art facility with 200+ weekly classes for all ages
- Award-winning instructors with national recognition
- Proven track record of student scholarships and professional careers
- Emphasis on safety, inclusivity, and character development
Associations and certifications
- Dance Teacher Magazine
- Americas Dance Educator of the Year
What people say
Lifelong friendships
Award-winning instructors
Inclusive environment
Technical excellence
Confidence-building
Services
Ballet
Ballet classes develop grace, posture, and technical precision through structured training. Students build foundational skills in muscle control, balance, and artistic expression. This discipline enhances coordination and motor skills while preparing dancers for advanced styles like pointe and lyrical.
Breakdance
Breakdance classes teach footwork, powermoves, and freezes in a high-energy environment. Students gain confidence through mastering technical skills while exploring personal style. This dynamic form improves strength, rhythm, and stage presence for competitive and recreational dancers.
Acro
Acro combines dance with gymnastic skills like cartwheels and handstands. Focus on safety and proper technique ensures injury prevention while enhancing flexibility and balance. Classes emphasize seamless integration of acrobatics into choreography for artistic expression.
Lyrical/Contemporary
Lyrical/Contemporary merges ballet and jazz techniques to convey emotional storytelling. Students explore improvisation and musical interpretation while developing fluid movement quality. Ballet proficiency is required to ensure technical foundation for advanced choreography.
Adult Fitness
Adult Dance & Fitness offers monthly memberships for flexible, instructor-led workouts. Classes include Zumba, Pilates, and jazz funk to improve strength, coordination, and cardiovascular health. Programs cater to all skill levels with options for casual participation or dedicated training.
People
Jane Carter
Founding Director
Jane Carter founded Dance Academy USA in 1990, establishing it as a nationally recognized dance institution. With a background in human performance and nutrition, she has received top industry awards, including Americas Dance Educator of the Year. Her leadership emphasizes community, technical excellence, and character development.
James Carter
Co-Founder
James Carter co-founded Dance Academy USA with Jane in 1990. A former college athlete, he brings business expertise from real estate and coaching. Together with Jane, he has shaped the studios growth into a thriving community-focused institution.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We offer classes for children as young as 3, teens, and adults. Our curriculum includes early dance education (ages 3–7), technique classes (ages 7–17), and adult fitness programs.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes! Adults can try two free trial classes through our mobile app. Recreation program students may audit classes by contacting the office for placement guidance.
Are there performance opportunities?
All students participate in annual recitals. Competitive teams perform at national events, while community groups engage in local outreach performances throughout the year.
How are instructors qualified?
Our faculty includes nationally recognized choreographers with decades of industry experience. All staff undergo background checks and maintain current certifications in first aid and child safety.
Can I observe classes?
Parents may observe designated viewing weeks or schedule private observation appointments. Our transparent teaching environment encourages family engagement while maintaining student focus during lessons.
