San Diego Dance Center is more than a studio — it’s a movement.  A new era of dance culture rooted in excellence, community, and purpose. We’re here to create something bigger than any one dancer, and we want you to be a part of it.


Rooted in purpose. Rebuilding the Heart.


join the movement

When dancers walk through our doors, they step into a space where they are seen, supported, and challenged to become their best. Whether they dream of dancing professionally, joining a competitive team, or simply building confidence and friendships, our students leave with more than just skills — they leave empowered.

We offer programs for every path: recreational classes, elite competition teams, and our signature Tiny Take Over program for emerging young artists. No matter their starting point, every dancer finds a place to belong, grow, and thrive.


Join us as we create a new standard in dance. One that honors where we’ve been,
while boldly leading where we’re going.


A Place For Everyone

This isn’t just where dancers train—
it’s where they belong

San Diego Dance Center was created by former dancers who were deeply impacted by the mentors, teachers and experiences that shaped their love for dance. Now, were committed to creating that same positive impact for the next generation. After years of experiencing both the strengths and challenges of traditional studio culture, we set out to build something intentional, A space rooted in passion, purpose and community. At San Diego Dance Center, dance is about more than technique and trophies. It's about helping dancers grow into confident, disciplined, and empowered individuals both inside and outside the studio. We believe that every dancer deserves to feel seen, supported and inspired in an environment that values who they are just as much as what they achieve. San Diego Dance Center was built on love, leadership, and belief that dance has the power to transform lives and creating lasting community.  


enroll today

San Diego Dance Center is here to lead the next generation of dancers with a new vision, renewed values, and a culture that truly puts dancers first.
                                   

This is more than a studio. It’s a revolution in motion.

Our Staff

Nicole Taylor is the proud owner of San Diego Dance Center, where she is committed to creating a positive, high-level training environment that inspires dancers to grow both technically and personally. Her experience as both instructor and mentor has shaped her belief that dance should challenge, empower and uplift every dancer who walks through the door. 
At San Diego dance Center, Nicole's vision is to "Raise the Standard" by combining strong technical training with a supportive and motivating atmosphere. She is passionate about helping dancers reach their full potential while creating a studio family that values hard work, professionalism, sportsmanship, and genuine connection. 
Nicole takes pride in building opportunities for dancers to grow not only inside the studio, but also as confident young leaders outside of it. Through innovative training, competitive opportunities, master classes, and community-focused events, she continues to grow San Diego Dance Center into a home where dancers are inspired to "Be the Movement."   

Nicole Taylor - Owner



KJ Humphrey -  Director

KJ Humphrey is the Director of San Diego Dance Center and a passionate, versatile dance instructor trained in all styles of dance. With a strong love for movement, performance and mentorship, KJ brings high energy, creativity and positivity into every class and rehearsal. Dedicated to helping dancers grow both technically and artistically, he strives to create a supportive environment where dancers can build confidence, work hard, and enjoy the process of learning. 
Known for his encouraging teaching style and strong connection with students, KJ is dedicated to inspiring dancers of all ages and levels to reach their full potential while developing a genuine love and appreciation to dance. 
As director KJ is passionate about creating a studio environment that feels like family while pushing dancers to live out their dreams. He believes in building strong technique, confidence, and artistry while making sure every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired. KJ's dedication, leadership and love for teaching continues to leave a lasting impact on each dancer that walks through the studio doors.

Reilly Archer

Claire O'Brien

Reilly is a motivated and energetic dance instructor/choreographer determined to promote the importance of tap dance training, elevating the art form within the competition dance circuit. She invests wholeheartedly in her students providing a comprehensive education, incorporating learnings from her mentors Sharon Keller and Michelle Miner.
Reilly’s teaching methods consistently produce award-winning dancers and routines while maintaining a positive and encouraging classroom environment.
Outside of the studio she continuously shares her love for dance working as a guest choreographer, convention teacher, and national dance competition adjudicator. 

Claire O'Brien is a passionate dance educator, choreographer, and performer with over 15 years of training and experience in contemporary, jazz, ballet, and technique, She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Chapman University, where she further developed her passion for performance, choreography, and dance education. Her choreography has received numerous awards and recognition at regional and national events, reflecting her creative vision and strong technical background. With more than nine years of teaching and choreographing experience. Claire is passionate about helping dancers build both technical excellence and confidence in their artistry. She is dedicated to creating a positive and inspiring environment where students can grow as performers while developing a genuine love for dance.  

With over 10 years of competitive studio training, Rina began her dance journey at NorCal Dance Arts in San Jose, California under the direction of Tawnya Kuzia. Throughout her training, she worked with some of the industry's top choreographers through the Break The Floor convention circuit, developing a strong foundation in technique, performance quality, versatility, and artistry. 
Her Performance experience includes appearing on Season 3 of World of Dance as a member of the JDC Girls, where she had the opportunity to perform in front of Jennifer Lopez, Ne-Yo and Derek Hough.
Most recently, she completed her four-year collegiate dance career as a member of the San Diego State University Dance Team. During her time on team, she competed at UDA Nationals and helped SDSU consistently place in the Top 5 in the highly competitive D1A Hip Hop division. The past season, the team made program history placing Top 5 for both D1A Hip Hop and Jazz. Alongside national competition experience, she also performed and cheered at collegiate football and basketball games, representing SDSU spirit and athletic excellence.
Beyond performing, she is deeply passionate about teaching and mentoring young dancers. She loves creating a positive and inspiring environment where students can grow both technically and confidently while sharing the knowledge, discipline, and experiences she has gained throughout her dance carrer. 

Rina Kanamaki




Maddy Corn



Maddy Corn brings a unique combination of dance training and athletic performance education to San Diego Dance Center, with a strong focus on dancer health, conditioning, and injury prevention. With experience teaching and training in a wide range of styles including Contemporary, Jazz, Hip Hop Ballet, Acro, Turns and Tricks, she is passionate about helping dancers build strength, technique and longevity in their training. 

She earned her degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Fitness Specialist from San Diego State University and is currently pursuing her Master's in Athletic Training at Point Loma Nazarene University, where she is specializing in dancer rehabilitation and injury prevention. Maddy is dedicated to creating a supportive training environment that prioritizes proper technique, body awareness, and safe movement practices while helping dancers perform at their highest level. 


Mariah Humphrey



From the competition stage to the NFL sidelines, Mariah has built a reputation as a powerhouse performer with unmatched passion, precision, and presence. A former member of the prestigious Texas Tech Pom Squad, she trained and performed at an elite collegiate level while developing the versatility and performance quality that set her apart in the dance industry. 

Now officially a member of the Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders, Mariah continues to inspire with her dynamic style, strong technique, and magnetic stage presence. Known for her work ethic, artistry, and ability to command any room she walks into, she brings both athleticism and heart to every performance. 

Whether performing on the field, mentoring young dancers, or chasing new opportunities in the entertainment world, Mariah represents dedication, confidence, and excellence at the highest level.
 


Yas Nayab

Yas Nayab is a San Diego-based dancer, performer, and choreographer with extensive experience in competitive dance, studio training, and performance. Trained in multiple styles including jazz, lyrical, pom, hip hop, contemporary, and ballet. She is known for her strong performance quality, versatility, creativity and leadership both on and off the stage. 
In addition to her dance background, Yas has experience mentoring younger dancers, assisting instructors and performing professionally at community and entertainment events throughout San Diego. Her passion for dance, positive energy, and commitment to growth continue to make her a standout role model for young dancers in the community. Yas is passionate about inspiring the next generation of performers while continuing to grow as both an artist and leader within the dance industry.

Kelly Conaway



Kelly Conaway is a highly respected acro, stretch, and flexibility coach with over 20 years of professional teaching experience. She has worked with studios nationwide and brings extensive regional and national competition experience as both a coach and choreographer.
Recognized with performance awards for outstanding instruction, Kelly is known for her innovative, progressive approach to acrobatics and spotting techniques—empowering dancers to move with confidence and fearlessness. Her passion for the art of acro, dedication to her students, and commitment to every studio she partners with set her apart in the dance community.
In addition to Ms. Kelly, her work is supported by a highly trained team of instructors who share her standards of excellence and help bring her vision to life. Together, they create a dynamic and professional teaching environment that prioritizes safety, technique, and growth.
Kelly is also the creative force behind several beloved productions, including her annual Tumbling Nutcracker and summer showcases. You’ll find her teaching at popular workshops across the city—or leading one of her signature stretch classes, offered weekly both in person and virtually to students across the country.


Fantasia Bush



Fantasia Bush began her dance journey at the age of 10, training in a wide range of styles including jazz, modern, contemporary, hip hop, lyrical, and drill team/majorette. Her passion and dedication fueled a competitive dance career that extended through her collegiate years, allowing her to refine her craft both on and off the stage.

Driven to turn her love for movement into a career, Fantasia relocated to California to pursue dance professionally. She has since performed with renowned companies such as San Diego Dance Theater and Brickhouse Dance, gaining valuable experience in both concert and commercial dance settings. 

Fantasia earned her Master's degree in Dance, a milestone that deepened her commitment to the art form. She now strives to share her knowledge, experience and passion with the next generation of dancers cultivating not just strong technique, but also artistic integrity and self-expression through dance.


Come experience what sets us apart.

Where Dancers Begin — And Belong


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