Business Details
16 Years
experience
Premier Dance Education in San Diego
Founded in 2010, 4S Dance Academy has established itself as a premier destination for dance education in San Diego. Our family-owned studio is led by Artistic Director Shay Galloway, a former professional dancer with extensive training from prestigious institutions, and Executive Director Jason Galloway, whose background combines performing arts and business management. We offer a comprehensive curriculum spanning ballet, hip hop, jazz, contemporary, and more, taught by experienced instructors dedicated to creating a nurturing and safe environment for students of all ages.Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our small class sizes, personalized approach, and annual performances that showcase student talent. With a 5,300-square-foot facility conveniently located in Westwood Shopping Center, we serve families from 4S Ranch, Carmel Mountain, Del Sur, and surrounding communities. Our mission is to cultivate a lifelong love of dance while fostering confidence, creativity, and technical proficiency in every student.
Services
Ballet Classes
Hip Hop Dance
Jazz Instruction
Contemporary Dance
Musical Theatre
Tap Dance
Acro Tumbling
Pilates Classes
Adult Dance Fitness
Youth Dance Programs
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We offer small class sizes for personalized attention
- Our instructors include former professional dancers with 18+ years teaching experience
- Family-owned studio with 14 years of community presence
- We maintain strict safety protocols with 24/7 parent communication
- Our graduates have performed at prestigious venues including Vail International Dance Festival
What people say
Nurturing dance studio
Experienced dedicated teachers
Grew exponentially as dancer
Wonderful recital experience
Safe, clean environment
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops technical excellence through structured training from beginner to advanced levels. Students learn proper alignment, musicality, and performance quality using methods refined by Artistic Director Shay Galloway, a former Nevada Ballet Theatre soloist. Classes incorporate pointe work, variations, and partnering for older students preparing for professional careers.
Hip Hop Dance
This energetic program teaches fundamental hip hop techniques including popping, locking, and breaking. Instructors emphasize musicality and self-expression while maintaining technical precision. Students progress through styles from old-school to contemporary street dance, with opportunities to perform in recitals and community events throughout the year.
Acro Tumbling
Our acro program builds strength, flexibility, and coordination through progressive skill development. Certified instructors guide students through safe progressions of cartwheels, handsprings, and aerials. Classes integrate dance elements to maintain artistic expression while developing technical proficiency in a supportive environment for ages four and up.
Musical Theatre
This interdisciplinary program combines singing, acting, and dance to develop well-rounded performers. Students learn Broadway-style choreography while developing vocal technique and stage presence. The curriculum prepares participants for theatrical productions and auditions, with performance opportunities in annual showcases and community outreach programs.
Adult Dance Fitness
Designed for adult learners, these classes offer low-impact fitness through dance techniques. Options include ballet for core strength, cardio hip hop for aerobic exercise, and Pilates for flexibility training. The program accommodates all experience levels with flexible drop-in scheduling and class packages for working professionals.
People
Shay Galloway
Artistic Director
Former Nevada Ballet Theatre soloist with 18+ years teaching experience. Trained at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School and University of Arizona. BFA in dance with professional performance credits including George Balanchine's Serenade and Vail International Dance Festival appearances.
Jason Galloway
Executive Director
Combines 30-year acting career with business administration expertise from University of Colorado. Managed IT company serving entertainment industry clients. Oversees academy operations while maintaining industry connections for performance opportunities and guest artist collaborations.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer ballet, hip hop, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, modern, musical theatre, tap, and acro for ages 2.5+. Adult classes include ballet, hip hop, and Pilates.
Do you have trial classes available?
Yes, we offer free trial classes for new students. Create a 4SDA account to schedule your trial after August 1st, subject to availability.
What are your class sizes?
We maintain small class sizes for personalized attention. Most youth classes have 8-12 students with two instructors for ages 4-6.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! We host annual Nutcracker performances and spring recitals. Optional participation available for most classes, with professional choreography and guest artists.
How do you handle safety protocols?
We maintain strict safety standards with regular cleaning, air filtration systems, and flexible attendance policies. Parents receive real-time updates through our secure parent portal system.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
Our faculty includes former professional dancers with degrees in dance education. All instructors undergo background checks and participate in annual professional development training.
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