Hawkins School of Performing Arts

Hawkins School of Performing Arts is a dance studio in Folsom, CA, dedicated to nurturing artistic growth through programs in ballet, jazz, modern, contemporary, tap, hip hop, musical theater, acrobatics, and pre-school activities. Serving students of all ages and skill levels, the studio emphasizes a family-centered environment that fosters confidence, creativity, and technical excellence. With over three decades of experience, it stands as a regional leader in performing arts education, offering classes and performance opportunities for recreational dancers, aspiring performers, and company-level artists. The studio maintains a perfect 5.0 rating based on reviews from families who praise its supportive staff, transformative training, and lasting impact on young artists.

Founded over 30 years ago by Deirdre Hawkins, a Stanford-educated dance educator and former company member of the Shawl Anderson Modern Dance Center, the school was born from a deep commitment to artistic excellence and community. Deirdre, recognized by the City of Folsom for her outstanding contributions to the performing arts, established a legacy that continues through her son Luke, a professional performer and teacher in New York City. The studio’s faculty, including Artistic Director Jacob Gutierrez-Montoya and Programs Director Kendra Barrera, bring extensive training and experience to every class. Programs are designed to balance joy and discipline, preparing students for performance, college, and careers in the arts.

Located on Woodmere Road, the studio sits just a short distance from Willow Creek and Parkshore Trailhead, with Folsom Boulevard and Blue Ravine Road nearby. It is also within a half-mile of Willow Creek Park and The UPS Store, placing it in a quiet, accessible area near natural and community spaces. The location supports a welcoming atmosphere that blends urban convenience with nearby green space.

Hawkins School of Performing Arts is widely regarded as the premier performing arts academy in Folsom and the greater Sacramento region, known for its excellence in training, nurturing community, and producing artists who go on to perform on Broadway and in professional productions. The studio’s consistent recognition by families and students reflects its reputation as a trusted, transformative institution.

In Folsom, Hawkins School of Performing Arts remains a cornerstone of artistic development, where passion meets purpose in a city that values both tradition and creative expression.