About Us

At Michelle McDonald Gotta Dance studio, the philosophy is to dance from the heart. We believe that dance education should encourage active learning while maintaining a fun and nurturing atmosphere.

Each class integrates developmentally appropriate stories, songs, props and other equipment to advance dance-related educational goals while maintaining student engagement and encouraging enthusiasm about dance as an artistic form as well as a physical discipline. Stretching, strengthening, and anatomy are incorporated in order to build kinesthetic awareness and support healthy habits. Pantomime activities, musical awareness, creative movement and participation in choreography support artistic growth in each student. These disciplines taught in dance class are focused on fostering healthy self-esteem and excitement, as well as social and active listening skills. 

Dance curriculum is comprised of a combination of Ballet, Jazz, Tap, and Tumbling. 

Classes are carefully planned based on the age and skill level of each student. Children are able to learn at their own pace in an environment which supports and encourages them in trying new things, helping to build a strong movement vocabulary and confidence. 

The studio puts on an annual dance recital affording the children an opportunity to perform on stage. Preparation for this recital gives kids a chance to learn how to use stage makeup, participate in costuming and exposes them to professional theatre etiquette. They are exposed to the use of sets, lighting cues, and sound production during their performance. Each recital is based on a professional theatrical show. Past performances have been included Cats, Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz, Mary Poppins, The Little Mermaid, Seussical the Musical, Lion King and Aladdin. All ages, from three through teens are woven together to present the story. As the students grow within the studio, they are asked to assist in the care of younger dancers. Older students learn accountability to their younger counterparts and classmates as they assist in make-up, costume changes, and maintaining order backstage.

Michelle McDonald has been teaching dance professionally for over twenty years. She is certified through Dance Masters of California, a dance certification association that holds annual education conferences for teachers and students.