Los Olivos Dance Gallery
...Where students learn to l❤ve dance
Push for Inclusion
In early 2023 the Los Olivos Dance Gallery was awarded a grant from the California Department of Developmental Services to create specialized programs for students of all abilities in our dance community—and beyond.
The program, Push for Inclusion, was mindfully crafted for all students with one goal in mind: Foster friendships and build community. By brainstorming custom strategies for teachers that support students to building environments that nurture social engagement, there’s support available for each and every dancer at the studio. We are also excited to partner with Tri-Counties Regional Center to broaden our ability to help children with intellectual and developmental disabilities thrive in our community.
Questions or not sure where to start? We’re here to help! This program is a truly special opportunity for children throughout our community, and we want to reach anyone who needs support! Please email Beth at lodginclusion@gmail.com with any questions you may have about our events, programs, or offerings.
Special Events
Community Breakdancing Workshop
- Saturday, November 4, 10 - 12 am
- Location: Los Olivos Dance Gallery, 2948 Nojoqui Ave # 6, Los Olivos, CA 93441
- Open to all ages, levels, and abilities.
- Guest instructor Luca “Lazylegz” Patuelli from ILL-Abilities will teach a breakdancing workshop focused on helping students discover movement and build confidence. Dancers do not need to be LODG students to attend.
More info will be shared soon! Email lodginclusion@gmail.com with questions.
Teacher Education Workshop
- Saturday, November 4, 12:30 - 2:30 pm
- Location: Los Olivos Dance Gallery, 2948 Nojoqui Ave # 6, Los Olivos, CA 93441
- Open to all dance educators.
- Luca “Lazylegz” Patuelli from ILL-Abilities will work with dance educators from throughout the community to further educate and share insights on supporting students of all abilities.
More info will be shared soon! Email lodginclusion@gmail.com with questions.
Special Holiday Performance: The Guardians of Christmas
- Friday, December 8, 6:30 pm
- Location: TBD
- Select classes from the Los Olivos Dance Gallery will perform Guest Choreographer Joe Istre’s original show: The Guardians of Christmas. In addition to showcasing performers of all levels, this unique performance opportunity is sensory friendly by leveraging conscientious lighting and sound, as well as specialized backstage resources. This show is designed to give kids a chance to perform in a low-stress and supportive environment.
- Tickets are $10 at the door and seating is first come, first serve.
Ongoing Services
Download Your Student Snapshot!
Individualized consultations with our BCBA and early intervention specialist to create a tailored support plan and offer ongoing check-ins.
Student Support & Family Consultations
Individualized consultations with our BCBA and early intervention specialist to create a tailored support plan and offer ongoing check-ins.
Email lodginclusion@gmail.com for more info or to schedule your consultation.
Gather and Groove Classes
- Specialized dance curriculum crafted to expand social and emotional connection through music and movement based in improvisation, jazz, and hip hop.
- Ages 3-6: Fridays at 3:45
- Ages 7+: Fridays at 4:45
Social Saturdays
- Regular meet-ups for dancers and their families for dance, play, and a shared meal.
- Upcoming meet-ups: 9/30, 10/14, 10/28, 11/11, 12/2
Assistant Training Workshops
- Created for new and existing teaching assistants to expand their confidence in engaging and supporting students as leaders at LODG.
Email lodginclusion@gmail.com for more info.
Teacher Trainings
- The LODG staff meets regularly to learn best practices in inclusion, basic behavior management, and strategies for navigating developmental differences in a dance studio setting. These meetings are led by LODG alumna and Behavior and Education Specialist Beth Donati with support from Maggie Mesikep, LODG artistic director and owner; Katelyn Soliman, AMFT; and teachers on staff with specialized training and decades of experience.
Please email Beth at lodginclusion@gmail.com with any questions you may have about our events, programs, or offerings.