Business Details
9 Years
experience
Pagosa Springs Dance Academy - Dance Education in Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs Dance Academy was founded in 2017 as Pagosa Springs Dance Academy (PSDA), serving Archuleta County with accessible dance education. In 2022, we transitioned to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to expand scholarship programs, maintain affordability, and enhance arts opportunities through donor support. Our team of certified instructors delivers quality training in ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and other styles, following Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) standards. We prioritize community engagement through partnerships with local schools and performing arts groups, fostering creativity and confidence in students aged 3+. With over 500 square feet of studio space and a decade of combined teaching experience, we provide a safe environment for artistic growth.Our programs include recreational classes, competitive teams, and seasonal performances like the Annual Recital and Storybook Nutcracker. We emphasize proper technique, body mechanics, and performance skills while maintaining an inclusive atmosphere for all skill levels. Our leadership includes RAD-certified educators and former professional dancers with experience in choreography and competition coaching. We serve over 100 students annually through structured semesters with flexible enrollment periods and transparent billing practices.
Services
Ballet
Lyrical
Modern Dance
Jazz
Character Dance
Tap
Dance Basics
Studio Booking
Choreography Services
Company Classes
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- RAD-certified instructors with Olympic-level training expertise
- Scholarship programs ensuring dance accessibility for all families
- Comprehensive curriculum spanning 8 dance disciplines
- Nonprofit organization reinvesting 100% of profits into community programs
- Proven track record of competitive success since 2017
Associations and certifications
- Royal Academy of Dance
Services
Ballet
Our Ballet program teaches fundamental techniques following Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) curriculum. Students develop proper body alignment, French terminology, and musicality through structured barre and center work. Classes emphasize posture, grace, and technical precision while preparing dancers for advanced training opportunities.
Lyrical
Lyrical combines ballet and jazz techniques to create emotionally expressive performances. Students learn spatial awareness, floor work, and safe body alignment while developing storytelling through movement. Classes focus on musical interpretation and dynamic movement transitions.
Tap
Our Tap program develops rhythmic precision and percussive skills using specialized footwear. Classes incorporate flat tap and Broadway styles, building ankle strength and coordination. Students progress from basic steps to complex patterns in energetic, music-driven sessions.
Modern Dance
Modern Dance instruction covers Horton and Graham techniques alongside improvisation. Students explore diverse movement styles, contrasting with ballet training while developing choreographic understanding. Classes emphasize body awareness and creative expression.
Dance Basics
Designed for ages 3-5, Dance Basics introduces ballet technique, acrobatics, and creative movement. Classes build coordination, strength, and flexibility while cultivating a love for dance. Curriculum includes structured play and improvisation to develop motor skills.
People
Katrina Thomas
Executive Director
Founder with 20+ years teaching experience, holding bachelor's degrees in music and elementary education. Former competitive dancer and administrator, leading PSDA's transition to nonprofit status in 2022. Teaches K-8 music locally.
Denise Pitchon
Ballet Director
Royal Academy of Dance certified instructor with Olympic-level figure skating choreography experience. Former Malibu studio director, trained under JoAnne Jarvis. Specializes in classical ballet technique and body mechanics.
Lesley Peck
Company Director
20-year dance competition veteran with extensive convention and masterclass experience. Focuses on student development beyond comfort zones while maintaining company camaraderie. Also teaches at local middle school.
Anika Thomas
Choreographer
BM in Music Education with dance minor, teaching since 2015. Combines music education expertise with choreography skills. Also serves as elementary school music teacher and private instructor.
Heather Earles
Instructor
30+ year dance veteran with diverse teaching experience. Former modeling industry professional and published author. Integrates holistic health practices with dance instruction for comprehensive student development.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer ballet, jazz, tap, modern, lyrical, character, and hip-hop. Specialized classes include Dance Basics for ages 3-5 and advanced company training programs.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, as a nonprofit organization we provide need-based scholarships funded through donations and grants to ensure dance accessibility for all families.
What performance opportunities exist?
Students participate in the Annual Recital (May), Storybook Nutcracker (December), and community theater productions. Competitive teams attend regional events.
Do you accept adult students?
Yes, we welcome adult learners in select classes. Our community-focused programs include recreational and fitness-oriented dance opportunities for all ages.
How are instructors qualified?
Our staff includes Royal Academy of Dance certified teachers, former professional dancers, and competition coaches with Olympic-level training expertise across multiple disciplines.