About
Welcome to DCP, where passion meets precision and creativity thrives. For over a decade, DCP has been a beacon of excellence in the Pasadena dance community, offering high-quality instruction to dancers of all ages and skill levels. Our mission is to inspire, train, and nurture individuals, with a strong focus on ballet and high-intensity movement training, fostering a lifelong love for the arts.
At DCP, we believe in a balanced approach to dance education. Our programs are designed to build a solid technical foundation while encouraging artistic expression and personal growth. From our Children’s Division, where young dancers take their first steps, to our Pre-Professional Program that prepares dedicated students for a career in dance, we provide a comprehensive and supportive environment for every dancer.
Our faculty consists of experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge from prestigious institutions and companies such as the Royal Academy of Dancing, American Ballet Theater, and the Bolshoi Ballet. They are committed to offering personalized instruction, helping each student reach their full potential.
In addition to our core programs, we offer a variety of specialized classes, including Contemporary, Youth Ballet, Junior Ballet, Musical Theater, and Lyracle, ensuring that every student can explore their interests and develop a well-rounded skill set. Our state-of-the-art studio, located in the heart of Pasadena, features four spacious dance studios and modern facilities, creating an ideal environment for learning and creativity.
At DCP, dance is more than just movement—it’s a journey of self-discovery, discipline, and joy. We invite you to join our vibrant community and experience the transformative power of dance. Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned dancer, or somewhere in between, there’s a place for you at the Dance Conservatory of Pasadena.
Our staff
Founder | Artistic Director
Jennifer Cheng
Pasadena resident since 1972, trained in ballet under Stanley Holden and received her Advanced Certificate from the Royal Academy of Dancing at age 15. She has been teaching and directing student performances at the Dance Conservatory of Pasadena for nearly 10 years, focusing on developing the next generation of artists and creative leaders.
Studio | Office Manager
Tamar Corretjer
Originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico, earned her Bachelor’s in Theater Education and Dance from the University of Puerto Rico. At DCP, she’s the welcoming face at the studio, assisting with shoe and leotard sizing, account inquiries, and communications with staff and parents. As Production Manager and Backstage Director, she ensures every performance runs smoothly and that students are ready to shine.
Children’s Artistic Director
Caroline Broes
Caroline Russell Broes has dedicated over 23 years to teaching ballet, choreographing numerous children’s performances of classics like Nutcracker and Swan Lake. As the Children’s Artistic Director at DCP, she balances fun with proper technique, nurturing the next generation of dancers.
Dancer, Educator and Choreographer
Mia Hjelte
Mia Hjelte, a former Soloist with the Royal Swedish Ballet, brings her vast experience in both classical and contemporary dance to DCP. After moving to Los Angeles in 2018, she has focused on teaching and developing ballet programs while also collaborating on musical productions with Cal-State University.
Ballet Master
Francisco Martinez
Mr. Martinez’s 45-year dance career includes extensive training at the University of Arizona, Texas Christian University, and prestigious studios in New York City. He has taught at various institutions, joined the DCP faculty in 2011, and has directed the dance program at Occidental College for the past 15 years, while also founding Francisco Martinez Dancetheatre in 1981.
Ballet Instructor
Rowden Metzger
Rowden has dedicated his life to the arts as both a performer and instructor, with extensive training in classical ballet, tap, modern, and contemporary dance. He has performed as a principal dancer with numerous companies, worked with renowned choreographers, and has been featured in several dance publications, holding a BA in Performing Arts from Saint Mary’s College of California.
Ballet Instructor
Natalie Sanchez
Pasadena-born Natalie Sanchez holds a BA from Stanford, where she received a Mellon Mays Fellowship to further her studies in dance notation. She has trained with esteemed instructors like Aleta Hayes, Diane Frank, and Robert Moses, and is committed to continuing her pedagogical studies throughout her career.
Our Values
At the Dance Conservatory of Pasadena, we believe that the true power of dance lies not only in movement but in the values that guide every step. Here’s what we stand for:
Inspiration
Ignite Creativity: We encourage our students to explore their artistic expression and push the boundaries of their creativity through dance.
Discipline
Master Technique: We emphasize the importance of disciplined practice, ensuring each dancer builds a strong technical foundation.
Community
Foster Connections: We create a welcoming environment where dancers of all backgrounds come together to support and inspire one another.
Keep In Touch
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We believe in more than just teaching dance; we are dedicated to inspiring, training, and nurturing the creative spirits of our students.
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