West Coast Dance Conservatory is a premier dance school located in Millbrae and Burlingame, CA offering dance instruction in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary and Hip Hop for children ages 2 and up and teens.
Millbrae & Burlingame Dance Studio
Dance Classes | Millbrae & Burlingame, cA
Founded in August 2015 under the direction of Angela Holmes, West Coast Dance Conservatory was built on a vision: to create a space where dancers of all ages can grow in both artistry and confidence. Located in Millbrae and Burlingame, CA, WCDC offers exceptional training in ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, and hip hop for children, teens, and adults. From our youngest dancers discovering movement for the first time to pre-professional students refining their craft, our programs are designed to meet every dancer where they are — and help them rise. We proudly serve the Millbrae, Burlingame, Hillsborough, San Mateo, San Bruno, Foster City, and South San Francisco communities. More than a studio, WCDC is a home for growth, connection, and lifelong strength through the language of dance.
Our story
Founded in August 2015 under the direction of Angela Holmes, West Coast Dance Conservatory was built on a vision: to create a space where dancers of all ages can grow in both artistry and confidence.
Located in Millbrae and Burlingame, CA, WCDC offers exceptional training in ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, and hip hop for children, teens, and adults. From our youngest dancers discovering movement for the first time to pre-professional students refining their craft, our programs are designed to meet every dancer where they are — and help them rise.
We proudly serve the Millbrae, Burlingame, Hillsborough, San Mateo, San Bruno, Foster City, and South San Francisco communities. More than a studio, WCDC is a home for growth, connection, and lifelong strength through the language of dance.
Angela Holmes is the Artistic Director and Founder of West Coast Dance Conservatory, established in 2015. A visionary leader and nationally recognized choreographer, Angela has been inspiring dancers and creating award-winning choreography for over twenty years. Her passion for dance began at the age of five and quickly grew into a lifelong pursuit of excellence. She was accepted into the prestigious High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Texas, where she immersed herself in ballet, modern, jazz, tap, musical theatre, and dance composition. Angela went on to earn a full scholarship to the University of Arizona School of Dance, studying under world-renowned instructors including James Clouser, Amy Earnst, Melissa Lowe, Susan Quinn, Sam Watson, and Michael Williams. She graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance and was honored as “Most Outstanding Senior.”
Angela’s training also includes study at several of the world’s most respected institutions, among them The Juilliard School, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, School of Pennsylvania Ballet, The Limón School, Houston Ballet, and the Broadway Theatre Project. Her professional performing credits include It’s a Wonderful Life, Chicago, Evita, and Grease with Theatre Under the Stars and J&D Entertainment in Houston. She has also performed as a featured dancer for Clay Walker and appeared in national WNBA commercials. In addition to her extensive dance background, Angela is a certified Peak Pilates Instructor and combines her deep knowledge of movement, alignment, and performance artistry to help dancers achieve their fullest potential. Through her vision and leadership, Angela has built West Coast Dance Conservatory into a thriving home for dancers of all ages and levels. Known for her infectious energy, creative excellence, and unwavering dedication to her students, she continues to shape and inspire the next generation of artists both on and off the stage.
FOUNDER
Angela Holmes
Our Mission
To inspire a lasting love and appreciation for dance in a creative and fun-loving environment where dancers become artists.
INTEGRITY:
To conduct oneself with honesty, courtesy, and respect. To express consideration for one’s fellow dancers, educators, parents, staff and competitors. To be a person who leads by example and honors commitments. To be a person other people can count on.
LEADERSHIP:
To guide, direct and influence people in achieving their highest goals and ideals. By setting example through one’s actions and speech. To inspire and serve the people of your class, team, or community through full participation in all dance related activities.
RESPONSIBILITY:
To respect and adhere to the policies and procedures of the studio or the organizers of any conference, workshop, or competition. To be a person who interacts with peers and authority figures in a mature manner. To question authority in a respectful manner. To speak of any issue or grievance to the person who is able to resolve any concern. To be willing to receive coaching and direction when deemed appropriate.
CHARACTER:
To be a person who represents high levels of personal integrity, leadership and responsibility for oneself and others. A person who has the courage and willingness to face issues and concerns with maturity and dignity. To avoid gossip, criticism, or denigrating comments for any member of the dance community, parent, or peers.
PROFESSIONALISM:
To respect the dance profession and uphold our values and standards of conduct. To support and encourage one another. To voice opinions and initiate change that will elevate the dance community. To recognize oneself as a role model at all times. To love the study and performance of dance as a universal art form.
Alice is an enthusiastic and dedicated dance instructor who has been part of the West Coast Dance Conservatory family since its founding. She began dancing at the age of three and trained extensively in ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and tap, competing with WCDC throughout her youth. Alice has also expanded her training at renowned institutions such as ODC, Joffrey Ballet School, and Centre du Marais in Paris. A proud UC Irvine graduate, Alice earned her B.A. in Education Sciences, graduating magna cum laude at the age of 20. She finds joy in teaching dancers of all ages, styles, and abilities. With her positive energy and passion for movement, Alice inspires her students to reach their fullest potential while nurturing their love for dance and self-expression.
Alice fm
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Alice Wells is a versatile dancer and instructor originally from Morgantown, West Virginia. She received her training at Morgantown Dance Studio, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, BalletMet, and Atlanta Ballet. Throughout her career, Alice has performed with Louisville Ballet, Bowen-McCauley Dance, and Mareck Dance (formerly Missouri Contemporary Ballet). In 2021, Alice relocated to the Bay Area, where she has performed with Garrett+Moulton Productions, Alyssa Mitchel, Oakland Ballet, and Oceánica Ballet. She is currently a student in the LEAP Program at St. Mary’s College of California and is in her fifth season as an instructor at West Coast Dance Conservatory. Alice brings her extensive performance experience and passion for dance education to every class, inspiring students to explore movement with skill, artistry, and confidence.
Alice W
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Alyssa-Marie grew up in Millbrae, California, training with Ayako School of Ballet and Peninsula Youth Ballet. She continued her studies at the School of International Ballet in Southern California, with additional training from American Ballet Theatre, Ballet Manila, University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and Joffrey Ballet School. Now in her fourth season as a company dancer with Peninsula Ballet Theatre, Alyssa-Marie enjoys teaching ballet, contemporary, lyrical, and jazz to all ages and skill levels.
Alyssa
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Amanda’s passion for dance began at a young age after seeing The Nutcracker for the first time. Soon after, she was accepted into the San Francisco Ballet School, where she began her formal training. She continued her studies with Alonzo King LINES Ballet and The Joffrey Ballet, further expanding her technique and artistry. In high school, Amanda explored new movement styles by joining Bay Area hip hop teams, traveling, and competing across the region. She went on to earn her B.A. in Dance from San Francisco State University, where her love for performing and teaching deepened. After college, Amanda began teaching and performing for international music artists. Dance has always been a positive and grounding force in her life, and she hopes to inspire her students to stay dedicated, work hard, and discover the same joy through movement that she has found.
Amanda
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Chia Santiago is a dedicated student of dance, committed to both its training and culture. She has spent years giving back to her community as a dance teacher, connecting with Bay Area students and families through movement. In addition to teaching, Chia has choreographed for a variety of events, including quinceañeras, debutante balls, cotillions, and flash mobs. As a Hip Hop instructor, Chia creates a fun and supportive environment where dancers of all levels can grow, express themselves, and develop their love for dance. She is passionate about inspiring her students to reach their full potential while exploring the art and culture of Hip Hop.
chia
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Clarissa K. Ko is a spirited dance educator and choreographer who fosters supportive and reflective dance spaces for all ages. She grew up training in RAD and CSTD ballet syllabus and modern/contemporary technique. She has had the honor of being mentored in somatic principles as a young dancer by Ms. Juna Koo and later as a teacher and professional dancer by, master teacher, Ms. Augusta Moore. Clarissa received her BA in Performing Arts and Social Justice from the University of San Francisco and her MSEd in Learning Design and Technology from Purdue University and is a certified Progressing Ballet Technique teacher. In addition to teaching somatic-based ballet and contemporary technique at dance studios she has also worked on curriculum integration in K-8 schools. In recent years she has danced with Lizz Roman and Dancers, Pete Litwinowicz, and 13th Floor Dance Theater in dance films and site-specific work. Through her dance company, Five Feet Dance, Clarissa has presented work at CounterPulse, SAFEhouse for the Arts, Little Boxes Theater, and the Asian Art Museum.
Clarissa
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
David Calhoun grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, and began dancing in 6th grade. He spent summers training at LINES Ballet, Ballet West, Kansas City Ballet, Martha Graham, Hubbard Street, Bates Dance Festival and Springboard Danse Montreal. David’s passion for dance led him to receive his BFA in Dance Performance and Choreography with an Emphasis in Ballet and Modern from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, on full scholarship. Upon graduation, he moved to San Francisco to join dawsondancesf. Other professional credits include AXIS Dance Company, ODC/Dance, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Ballet22, SFDanceworks, Wylliams/Henry Contemporary Dance Company, Mark Foehringer Dance Project, Concept o4 and backup dancer for Lady Camden. As a company dancer at AXIS, he had the privilege of teaching dance classes across the United States and Mexico during the company’s extensive tours. David is a 200hr Registered Yoga Teacher and loves to incorporate mindfulness into his dance lessons. David is thrilled to be joining the faculty at WCDC!
David
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Ellis is from Bennington, Vermont and began her early dance training at Berkshire Dance Theatre. At age 15 she was accepted into Boston Ballet School’s Pre-Professional Program where she had the opportunity to perform alongside Boston Ballet’s professional company. She supplemented her training by attending programs at The School of American Ballet and American Ballet Theatre in New York. Dancing for Ballet Austin for four years, Ellis performed in classical renditions of Swan Lake, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and The Firebird, as well as new contemporary works. Since moving to the Bay Area, she has performed with Oakland Ballet Company, New Ballet, eMotion Arts, and as a dancer with the San Jose Opera. Alongside her dancing, Ellis found a passion in sharing her joy of movement as a dance teacher, and is thrilled to be beginning her second season teaching at West Coast Dance Conservatory!
Ellis
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
JC has been teaching Hip Hop since the age of seventeen and dancing since he was six. He began his dance journey with ballroom, popping, and strutting, and now continues to train in styles such as housing, locking, waacking, and breakdancing. JC embraces all forms of movement, blending various dance styles into his unique choreography. Throughout his career, JC has been part of numerous Hip Hop teams across the Bay Area and even internationally. As the Hip Hop Company Director at WCDC, he brings his extensive experience and passion to every class he teaches. His enthusiastic yet disciplined teaching style keeps students motivated, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.
jc
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Jen began her dance journey at Schumacher’s School of Dance in South San Francisco, where she trained in ballet, jazz, and tap for eight years. She continued her passion for dance throughout high school at Mercy San Francisco, performing as a member of the Dance Ensemble all four years and earning the Bank of America Performing Arts Award her senior year. Jen went on to attend San Francisco State University, where she explored new styles including modern, contemporary, and Afro-Haitian dance. Her lifelong love of movement eventually led her to combine her artistry with her faith as the lead choreographer for Koinonia Praise Dance Ministry at Faith Fellowship, a role she has held since 2020. In 2024, Jen joined the faculty at West Coast Dance Conservatory, where she brings her vibrant energy and joy for rhythm to the adult tap program. Known for her creative flair, upbeat spirit, and infectious enthusiasm, Jen has transformed adult tap into one of WCDC’s most fun and community-driven classes. A proud dance mom and dedicated teacher, she continues to share her love of dance with passion, humor, and heart.
Jen
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Josue Villeda is a Guatemalan-born dancer, choreographer, and costume designer based in San Francisco, California. A self-taught artist, he began his dance journey at the age of 17 and quickly established himself within Guatemala’s dance community, performing in commercials, musicals, and with renowned companies. Passionate about contemporary dance, Josue has served as a principal dancer, instructor, and artistic director, continually refining his unique voice and style. His professional career has brought him to the United States, where he has performed with Cleo Parker Robinson Dance and Tristian Griffin Dance Company at Jacob’s Pillow. In addition to performing and teaching, Josue is an accomplished costume designer, creating original pieces that reflect his movement aesthetic and artistic vision. His recent collaboration with dancer and choreographer Savannah Dunn has sparked a new chapter in his work, deepening his exploration of the intersection between dance and visual artistry.
Josue
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Mikaela has been part of the West Coast Dance Conservatory family since the age of five and has cherished every moment of her journey. As a dedicated member of the West Coast Dance Conservatory Company, she looks forward to stepping into the studio each day. Mikaela’s love for working with children and her passion for dance inspire her to pursue both teaching and performing in the years ahead.
Mikaela
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Nastia Alexandrova was born in San Francisco, California, where she trained at City Ballet San Francisco under the guidance of her mother, Galina Alexandrova, a graduate of the Bolshoi Ballet Academy and former dancer with both the Bolshoi Ballet and San Francisco Ballet. In 2013, Nastia spent a year at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow, refining her training in the Vaganova method. Two years later, she won First Place in Classical Ballet at the Youth America Grand Prix San Francisco Semi-Finals and went on to perform in the finals in New York. In 2016, Nastia joined American Ballet Theatre’s Studio Company before moving into the main company, performing in productions such as The Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, Giselle, Romeo and Juliet, and Don Quixote. From 2021 to 2022, she danced with Boston Ballet, performing featured roles in The Nutcracker and Swan Lake, before returning to American Ballet Theatre in 2022. Alongside her performing career, Nastia is dedicated to training and mentoring the next generation of dancers.
Nastia
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Paige has been training in dance for over thirteen years and is an accomplished company member at West Coast Dance Conservatory, where she has honed her skills in ballet, jazz, contemporary, and more. Her dedication and artistry have earned her multiple awards, including top honors at regional dance competitions. In addition to her extensive dance background, Paige has experience as a choreographer and performance coach, leading youth cheer and dance teams and producing halftime performances for major events, including a Stanford University basketball game. Her strong sense of leadership and creative direction shine through in both her choreography and teaching. Paige joined the West Coast Dance Conservatory faculty in 2024 and brings enthusiasm, professionalism, and a deep love for dance to every class she teaches. She is passionate about inspiring young dancers to develop confidence, discipline, and joy through movement.
Paige
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Sharon began dancing at the age of three and has been passionate about movement ever since. A Bay Area native, she grew up performing and competing locally in tap, ballet, hip hop, and jazz. She also trained and performed extensively with Nicaraguan folklore dance groups throughout Northern California, deepening her appreciation for cultural expression through dance. Sharon is thrilled to be part of the faculty at West Coast Dance Conservatory. Her favorite aspect of dance is how it allows for self-expression and builds confidence—values she strives to instill in all her students. For Sharon, the greatest reward as a teacher is watching her dancers step outside their comfort zones and become inspired by their own growth.
Sharon
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
Tara has been dancing professionally for over 12 years and teaching for the past decade. She began her formal ballet training with the San Francisco Ballet School and Contra Costa Ballet. Her training continued under world renowned instructors including Richard Cammack, Zola Dishong, Yoira Esquival-Brito, Pascale Leroy, Charles Anderson, and Katarina Wester. In 2015, Tara began her professional career with Ballet Manila under the direction of Lisa Macuja-Elizalde and Osias Barroso. The following year, she joined Philippine Ballet Theatre (PBT) as a company artist under the artistic direction of Ronilo Jaynario, performing numerous soloist roles in productions such as The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, La Bayadère, Cinderella, The Merry Widow, Don Quixote, and The Sleeping Beauty. Tara joined WCDC in 2022. As a passionate and dedicated dance educator, Tara finds joy in nurturing the next generation of dancers. She strives to create a positive, inspiring, and encouraging environment where students can build confidence, discipline, and a genuine love for dance. For Tara, teaching is more than technique—it’s about sharing the artistry, joy, and life lessons that dance brings.
TARA
WCDC Instructor
Close Bio
