Our Instructors
Melissa - Jazz, Little/Shining Stars, & Pre Hip Hop
Melissa discovered her love for dance at 4 years old. She graduated from SDSU where she received her BA in dance and has over 30 years of teaching experience. Before opening the studio, she was the head of the dance department at Chula Vista High School, toured Europe performing with the Extraordinary Students of America, and was the dance captain in Starlight’s performance of Singin’ In the Rain. She fulfilled her dream and opened Dance Society in 1999 where she continues to share the love of dance with the students in Chula Vista. Melissa is a mom of two and loves spending time with her Dance Society family.
Dorthea - Advanced Contemporary
Dorthea began dancing at the age of 6 and has been a Dance Society teacher for 18 years. She has led award-winning competition teams and takes pride in nurturing each dancer’s personal growth. When asked why she loves to dance, Dorthea says “Dance has always been my way of expressing my thoughts and emotions. One of my greatest joys is watching my daughter grow to love something that has been such a meaningful part of my life.” Dorthea is known for her empowering teaching style and commitment to excellence.
Mikaela - Ballet
Mikaela has been dancing since the age of 8 and graduated as a Dance Society alumni. She has choreographed ballet routines for Southwestern College and has been a Dance Society teacher for 7 years. Mikaela received a Dance Award of Merit and won the Best Choreographic Concept for her original piece “Seeking Light”. Mikaela loves to dance because “It allows you to creatively express yourself while getting some feel-good exercise. I love how beautifully detail-oriented dance is! Teaching dance is one of my favorite things to do because I enjoy sharing the love of creative expression with my students, and love seeing them grow as dancers and individuals every dance session.”
Leilani - Advanced Hip Hop
Leilani has been dancing for 28 years and teaching for 11 years, bringing a deep love and lifelong dedication to the art of dance. She has performed throughout California with the 220 dance team and is currently dancing with team OBG. Leilani says, “Dance has always been my creative outlet and has helped me through many hardships in life. Teaching allows me to share that passion, see my students grow, and watch them build lifelong relationships.” She prides herself on creating a positive and creative space where dancers can thrive and express themselves fully.
Savannah - Pre Hip Hop, Hip Hop, Jazz
Savannah has been dancing since the age of 8 and is an advanced dancer in Hip Hop and Jazz at our studio. She has received training in cheer, assistant teaching, and is now entering her second year as a teacher at Dance Society. Savannah shares, “I love to dance because it's a great way to move your body in a fun expression of creativity. I also love sharing my passion with my students.” Her enthusiasm and positive energy make her classes a joy for young dancers.
Camryn - Tiny Stars, Shining/Super Stars, & Hip Hop
Camryn has been dancing for 11 years and is a Dance Society alumni. She has assisted with Dance Society classes and now brings her unique style and musicality to the teaching team. Camryn says, “Dance brought me closer to my friends. I love music and being able to make moves that match the beat so others can enjoy watching.” Camryn's energy and personality shine in every class she teaches.
Isabela - Advanced Jazz & Contemporary
Isabela began dancing at age 5 and has been teaching dance for 3 years. She is currently majoring in Dance at San Diego State University and performs with her college Hip Hop dance team. With years of experience at competitions and conventions, Isabela brings both skill and passion to her classes. Isabela says, “I love to dance because it allows me to share my passion with my students. It's also a fun way to stay active without feeling like I’m exercising!”
Miranda - Advanced Hip Hop
Miranda began dancing at the age of 3 and is an advanced Hip Hop dancer and proud Dance Society alumni. She’s a student choreographer for Southwestern College and has experience as a cheer coach. Miranda says, “I love to dance because it’s the only time I feel authentically myself. It allows me to express who I am in a way that makes me feel happy and confident.” Her leadership and passion make her a strong role model for all dancers.
Maya - Little Stars & Tap
Maya has been dancing since the age of 3 and is one of our advanced dancers, who has trained in all styles at Dance Society. As the daughter of our dedicated teacher Dorthea, Maya has grown up in the studio and has been a devoted assistant for the past 2 years. Maya says, “I love to dance because it allows you to express yourself, learn new things, and have fun. It's also a great way to relieve stress!” She brings energy, creativity, and a positive spirit to every class.
Hope - Advanced Tap
Hope has been dancing since the age of 3 and is a proud Dance Society alumni. As the daughter of studio owner Melissa, Hope has grown up surrounded by the Dance Society community and now contributes both as a teacher and administrative coordinator. She performed with the award-winning Society Kids and is known for her advanced tap skills, bringing a unique sense of rhythm and fun to every class. With a background in percussion and music, Hope uses her strong musicality to help students develop precise timing and expression in tap. Hope says, “Dance Society has always been my second home. I’m excited to share my love of dance with my students and help them build long-lasting memories and friendships.”