Summer Dance Camp
Kids Dance Camp
Register Today!
Get ready for a summer filled with rhythm, movement, and joy!
PUSH Summer Dance Camp (Ages 5-11)
Our Summer Dance Camp offers young movers a fun, nurturing space to discover the joy of dance! Children ages 5-11 will explore contemporary, jazz, hip hop, tap, lyrical, theater and other dance styles through building confidence and coordination while making new friends.
Learn more about our knowledgable and experienced team!
RAISSA SIMPSON
Artistic Director, BFA, MFA
Raissa Simpson is currently a faculty member of Stanford University’s TAPS department and an in demand educator. She trained at Glenna Bell Moening’s Dance Art Studio, San Jose Dance Theatre, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Taylor School, SUNY Purchase Conservatory of Dance, and many more. Most notably, she dance professionally with Robert Moses Kin and Joanna Haigood’s Zaccho Dance Theatre.
ASHLEY GAYLE
Associate Artistic Director, BFA
Ashley Gayle has taught at Oakland Unified School District, Shawl Anderson Dance Center, and PUSH Youth Program, among others. She is a performer, director, and co-curated Yerba Buena Gardens Choreofest for three years while presenting original choreography for the company. Ashley holds a BFA in Dance with Minor in Business Management from UC Irvine.
Avery Rissling
BA, Teacher & Sanctuary Manager
Avery grew up in southern California where she trained at Lauridsen Ballet Centre and South Orange County School of the Arts. She fell in love with modern dance at Santa Clara University, where she was inducted into NHSDA, received the Anna Halprin Dance Award, and graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2020 with a dual BA in Dance and Political Science and a minor in Gender Studies. Now based in San Francisco, Avery performs, choreographs, and teaches movement classes across the Bay Area. She has been a company member of Natasha Carlitz Dance Ensemble since 2023, and has performed the works of choreographers such as Raissa Simpson, Kristin Kusanovich, Claire Calalo, and Ronnie Reddick. Avery is passionate about creating fun and accessible movement for all bodies, so that each student can experience the healing power of embodiment, the confidence that comes with building functional strength, and the joy of authentic self-expression.
No experience necessary—just bring curiosity, plenty of positivity, and a packed lunch! This program is a wonderful way to dance and meet new friends for our youngest aspiring dancers.
Please note: Children must bring their own lunch. Before and after care services are not available.
Q: How do I register my child for camp? Space is limited, so we encourage early registration!
- Visit our Registration Page and click on the red Register link, you’ll be redirected to our Union Fit web portal to register.
- On Union Fit, click Register For In-Person and you’ll be asked to create an account or log into the portal.
- Fill out your information, register and make a payment.
- You’ll be sent a follow up form from our staff with information about your child
Q: What are the age requirements?
- Ages 5-11
Q: Does my child need dance experience? Not at all! Our camps welcome dancers of all levels, from complete beginners to experienced movers. We meet each child where they are.
Q: What is your camper-to-instructor ratio? We maintain small group sizes to ensure personalized attention and a safe, supportive environment for all dancers.
Q: Is there a sibling discount available? Please contact us at 415-547-0492 to discuss sibling rates and scholarship opportunities.
Q: What are the camp hours?
- 9:00am-3:30pm
Q: Is before/after care available? Before and after care services are not currently available. Please arrange for prompt pick-up and drop-off.
Q: What should my child wear? Comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement (leggings, shorts, t-shirts). Footwear like sneakers for hip hop/breakdancing or ballet slippers are optional. Long hair should be neatly fastened away for safety.
Q: What should my child bring?
- Packed lunch (required)
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Change of clothes (optional but recommended)
Q: Are there any food restrictions we should know about? Please pack nut-free lunches and snacks to accommodate potential allergies among our campers.
Q: What dance styles will be taught? Full-Day campers explore jazz, hip hop, tap, lyrical, theater dance, ballet, breakdancing, and choreography.
Q: Will there be a performance? Yes! The last day features an informal showcase where students share what they’ve learned with family and friends. It’s a celebration, not a high-pressure performance—just pure joy!
Q: Can parents watch classes? To help children focus and build independence, we ask that parents say goodbye at drop-off. You’ll see everything your dancer has learned at the showcase!
Q: Do you offer arts and crafts? Yes! Full-Day campers may also have creative activities integrated into their week.
Q: What are your COVID-19/illness policies? Please keep your child home if they show any signs of illness. We’ll update families on current health protocols as the summer approaches.
Q: What if my child has never been to camp before? Our teaching artists are experienced in welcoming first-time campers! We create a warm, inclusive environment where every child feels seen and supported.
Q: My child is shy/nervous about trying dance. Will they be okay? Absolutely! Many of our dancers start out feeling nervous. Our approach emphasizes joy, creativity, and community—not perfection. We celebrate each child’s unique expression.
Q: Do you have a code of conduct? Yes. We maintain a respectful, kind environment where all bodies, abilities, and identities are celebrated. Bullying or exclusionary behavior is addressed immediately with care and clear boundaries.
Q: What if we need to miss a day? Please let us know as soon as possible. Make-up classes may not be available, but we want to stay connected with your family.
Q: Can I take photos/videos during the showcase? Yes! We love when families capture these special moments. We’ll provide guidelines about respectful documentation.
Q: How do I stay updated during the week? We’ll send brief updates and highlights throughout the week so you can see what your dancer is learning.
Still have questions? Contact us at 415-547-0492! We’re here to make your child’s summer dance experience joyful, safe, and unforgettable.
Please note: Children must bring their own lunch. Before and after care services are not available.