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Expressions Dance & Movement Center

4.9 ★★★★★ 170 Google reviews · Ballet school in Santee, California

Ballet school Free trial Kids & teens Pre-professional

Plan your first class

  • Free trial / first class new students can usually try a class free or at a discount — call ahead or check their schedule to book your first one
  • Ages classes for ages 3–8 — check the schedule for the right level for your dancer
  • Pre-professional a serious, conservatory-style track for committed students aiming high
  • Recitals end-of-year performances and shows — ask about costume and performance fees when you enroll
  • Summer intensive holiday and summer intensive programs — these fill early, so ask about dates and auditions
  • Today see hours ·
  • Phone +1 888-991-3362
  • Website & schedule expressionsdanceandmovement.com — enroll and see the live class schedule

Hours

Monday 3:30–8 pm
Tuesday 3:30–8 pm
Wednesday 9–11:30 am, 3:30–8 pm
Thursday 9–11:30 am, 3:30–8 pm
Friday 3:30–6:30 pm
Saturday 9 am–12:30 pm
Sunday Closed

Studio hours shift for holidays, recitals, and term schedules — worth a quick check before a special trip.

The programs they offer

Ballet programs on the schedule at Expressions Dance & Movement Center, confirmed in families' own reviews and the studio's own info — not guessed from the sign out front.

🌸 Kids Ballet 29 mentions

“My daughter looks forward to class every week, absolutely lights up when she’s there and she CAN'T WAIT to perform in the upcoming Spring recital!”

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🧸 Toddler & Pre-Ballet 2 mentions

“We recommend everyone come here because it is very much a family environment, not just your little dancer.”

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💛 Adaptive Ballet 2 mentions

“I think it's amazing that she hosts the class for special needs and it truly takes a quality person to have the patience that she does.”

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☀️ Summer Intensives

All studios with summer intensives →

What families & students say

The things reviewers bring up again and again across 170 Google reviews — with their own words as proof.

🧸 wonderful with young kids 4 mentions

“Shaylin and the Elev8 team for years now & our Daughter LOVES being a part of this wonderful place.”

💛 nurturing, non-competitive 21 mentions

“Freiya looks forward to dance each week and it has really caused her to have so much more confidence to be able to perform with other "regular" kiddos.”

🎭 beautiful recitals & performances 7 mentions

“Freiya looks forward to dance each week and it has really caused her to have so much more confidence to be able to perform with other "regular" kiddos.”

💪 builds confidence & discipline 5 mentions

“Freiya looks forward to dance each week and it has really caused her to have so much more confidence to be able to perform with other "regular" kiddos.”

From the reviews

How lucky we are to have Miss Eliana as Sophia's dance instructor this year for Jazz, Musical Theater and Ballet at Expressions Dance Studio. Since day one of this dance year Miss Eliana has shown consistency in her expectations, care for each child and enthusiasm for dance.

★★★★★ — Sarah, Apr 2024

My daughter has grown so much as a dancer and leader thanks to all of the wonderful teachers and opportunities at Expressions. Miss Brittany is an excellent role model and makes dance fun. And somehow she's always smiling, even after 3 days of nonstop competitions & convention!

★★★★★ — Stephanie, May 2024

This is our second season with Expressions and we love this studio so much! The whole staff is so kind and helpful and knowledgeable. My daughter continues to gain more friends and comradery while coming here. And she takes 2 classes with Miss Alexandria and she is thriving.

★★★★★ — Ashley, May 2025

My son has been dancing at Expressions for a year and a half and he absolutely LOVES it! Miss Shaylin was his very first teacher and we are so lucky to have her again for another class. The way she connects with the kiddos and cheers them on during practice is wonderful!

★★★★★ — Kelsey, May 2023

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 170 reviews →

Your first ballet class at Expressions Dance & Movement Center

Nervous about walking into your first class? Almost everyone is — and a good studio expects beginners, whether your dancer is five or you're returning at fifty. Here's what to know. What to wear: comfortable clothes you can move in, with socks or bare feet; a leotard and tights are nice if you have them, but not required, and pointe shoes are years down the road — never day one. What to expect: class usually starts at the barre with slow, simple movements to warm up, then moves to the center — follow along, copy the teacher, and don't worry about getting it "right" the first time. Arrive early: come 10–15 minutes ahead to change, find a spot, and let the teacher know it's a first class so they can keep an eye out. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.

Ballet is for every age and every body. If you're returning from an injury or have a health concern, mention it to the teacher before class so they can offer modifications.

Where to find Expressions Dance & Movement Center

260 Riverview Pkwy, Santee, CA92071

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Listing verified July 2026 from public business records and student reviews. Something out of date? Report a correction. Own this studio? Claim your listing — it's free.