South Coast Conservatory dancers performing

Our Story

For over 30 years, we've been nurturing dancers, building dreams, and creating a family where every student can flourish and reach their full potential.

Three Decades of Excellence

20,000+
Students Trained
95%
Family Satisfaction
75+
National Awards
400+
Regional Awards

Building Dreams Since 1992

From a small dance studio to Orange County's premier conservatory, our story is one of passion and dedication to excellence.

1992

Opened as Mission Viejo Dance & Performing Arts Center

Started with a vision to provide exceptional dance education in Orange County.

1998

Moved location to Laguna Niguel

Relocated to better serve our growing community and expand our facilities.

2002

Studio Ownership change to Jena Minnick

New leadership brought fresh vision and expanded opportunities for our students.

2009

Added in-house theatre, Awarded Best Dance Studio

Enhanced our performance capabilities and received recognition for excellence.

2010

Started Non-profit Dance Discovery Foundation, Teacher Training program, and Nutcracker

Launched comprehensive programs including our beloved annual Nutcracker production.

2011

Added 8th studio, a retail store, and Pilates room. Started scholarship programs

Expanded facilities and began offering scholarships to support talented dancers.

2013

Changed name from 'Mission Viejo Dance' to 'South Coast Conservatory'

Rebranded to reflect our commitment to pre-professional dance training.

2017

Awarded Best Dance Studio, 10 years in a row! 5 finalists at Dance Awards and YAGP in New York

Achieved decade-long recognition and celebrated national competition success.

2019

Added 9th studio (Acro / Aerial gym). 23 finalists at Dance Awards and YAGP in New York

Expanded with specialized aerial training facility and continued competition excellence.

2020

Awarded Small Business of the Year by CA Assembly. Industry Nights - Industry Dance Convention

Received state recognition and launched industry-focused training programs.

2021

4 Conservatory Programs (Commercial Dance, Ballet, Musical Theatre, and Aerial)

Established comprehensive conservatory training across four specialized disciplines.

2022

Created Dance & Drama program through Dance Discovery Foundation

Expanded our non-profit foundation to include theatrical arts education.

2025

Merged with V&T Dance Academy and expanded the SCC Family!

Welcomed new families and expanded our community through strategic partnership.

Orange County's #1 Dance Studio

We're honored to be recognized as Orange County's Hot List Best Dance Studio, reflecting our commitment to excellence in dance education.

State-of-the-art facility with 9 specialized studios
3,000 sq ft Acro/Aerial gym, Pilates room, and retail store
70+ expert faculty teaching 4-tiered training program
South Coast Conservatory receiving Orange County Hot List award
Award Winner

Orange County Hot List Best Dance Studio

Become Part of Our Story

Join thousands of families who have made South Coast Conservatory their dance home.