ABOUT SRDT
Santa Rosa Dance Theater is a premier dance studio in Sonoma County for classical ballet instruction since 2005. We welcome all ages, from tiny dancers and advanced students to adult students, inspiring each one to envision a future in dance. We are pleased to offer the level of ballet instruction required for students who aspire to dance professionally, while also maintaining optimal health and athleticism.
Santa Rosa Dance Theater annually presents the holiday classic, "The Nutcracker", as well as a family-friendly, abbreviated classical ballets in May of each year, comprised of our own SRDT student dancers.
​
The studio is owned by a Doctor of Physical Therapy, offering unique wellness interventions and practices. The technique taught is designed by our Artistic Advisor, Miss A, a science-based dance master. Our instructors are wellness practitioners and enthusiasts for changing the world of dance for the better by fostering wellness.
MISSION
At SRDT, we are driven by a commitment to revolutionize the world of dance through scientific practice and holistic care. Inspired by personal experiences of injury and the belief in the power of proper healthcare and education, our mission is to help dancers prevent injuries, train smarter, and perform stronger, to enable dancers to have a longer, healthier, more fulfilling dance career and/or experience.
VISION
In the next five years, SRDT aims to see its curriculum and training methods spread worldwide. We envision a healthy, supportive environment where dancers can reach their fullest potential and achieve their goals, whether dancing for fun or aspiring to professional careers.
At SRDT, we are not just teaching dance; we are building lifelong skills, friendships, and memories, dedicated to excellence, health, and community.
VALUES
At SRDT, we let our values guide our decisions and directions. As a health-focused dance studio, what makes us stand out is our commitment to helping dancers prevent injury, train smarter, and perform stronger. At our ballet studio, we are committed to providing excellent ballet training and creating an environment where dancers of all ages can thrive.
Core Values
1. Excellence in Training:
We prioritize teaching proper technique and movement quality from a young age. By focusing on a strong technical foundation, we ensure that our dancers are well-prepared to learn and execute dance steps with precision and excellence as they progress over the years.
2. Injury Prevention and Longevity:
Implementing the Sugano System Ballet and Dance Evolution training, we aim to improve movement efficiency, reduce injury, and enhance the longevity of dancers' careers. Our approach combines science-based ballet techniques and regular conditioning classes starting at age 8 to fortify dancers for success.
3. Family-Friendly Performances:
Our performances are designed to be family-friendly, featuring easy-to-follow narratives, abbreviated formats, and engaging storylines. We want every performance to be an enjoyable experience for both dancers and their families.
4. Holistic Health and Well-Being:
We are dedicated to promoting the mental, physical, and emotional health of our dancers. By teaching meditation practices for stage fright and fostering a supportive environment, we help our dancers build confidence and maintain sound health.
5. Storytelling and Imagination:
For our youngest dancers, we incorporate storytelling and make-believe into classes, making technique training fun and magical. As they grow, we continue to blend imaginative elements with rigorous technical training.
6. Inclusivity and Lifelong Dancing:
We believe that dance is for everyone, regardless of age. Our studio welcomes dancers of all ages, encouraging them to work hard, bring a positive attitude, and enjoy the process.
7. Professional and Personal Growth:
We support dancers who aspire to become professional dancers, providing them with the necessary training and guidance to achieve their dreams. Simultaneously, we celebrate and support dancers who dance for enjoyment, ensuring they feel happy, learn, and thrive during their time with us.
8. Open Communication:
We value open and efficient communication between students, instructors, and parents. This fosters a transparent and supportive community where everyone = feels heard and respected.
9. Aesthetic and Positive Environment:
Our studio is designed to be aesthetically pleasing and peaceful, creating a positive atmosphere where dancers can thrive. We view teaching as an opportunity to instill valuable life skills such as discipline, self-esteem, and courage.
10. Community and Support:
We strive to build a tight-knit community where kids and parents can connect, = support one another, and grow together. Our studio is a place where everyone feels like they belong.
11. Employee Encouragement:
We believe in being fair to all our clients and employees. We encourage our staff to pursue their interests and talents, creating a workplace where everyone can flourish.
12. Growth and Expansion:
We are committed to the growth of our business and spreading the values of science-based ballet technique, proper conditioning, and rehabilitation for dancers. Our goal is to reach more dancers and provide them with the tools they need for a successful and fulfilling dance journey.
In everything we do, we are dedicated to excellence, health, and community. Our studio is not just a place to learn dance; it's a place to build lifelong skills, friendships, and memories.
​
​
HISTORY
Santa Rosa Dance Theater was founded in September 2005 by Adele Davalos Mitchell. She was inspired by the vision and talent of our previous Artistic Director Tamara Statkoun.
Adele's goal was to create a school where students could experience outstanding dance instruction within a warm and nurturing environment.
In 2017 Tamara retired and she forwarded her vision to Joshua Trader and his wife Marit VanderWolde Trader who then lovingly owned and guided the studio through summer of 2024.
​
In a desire to continue on the legacy of excellent dance instruction in Sonoma County with an emphasis on progressive technique and wellness, Joshua and Marit brought on Dr. Christa Christianson as the new Owner and Artistic Director. Josh and Marit will continue to be part of the school as advisors and guest instructors in the future.​