CANDACE SHEPPARD OPENED THE DOORS to Candace Sheppard Dance Academy in 2016 after presiding over several other dance studios in Maryland and Virginia for many years. She grew up dancing at her mother’s academy nearby and at the Broadway Dance Center in New York City, both becoming second homes to her.

A Washingtonian, Candace grew up to receive the highest level of certification in the Cecchetti method before attending George Mason University to earn a B.S. in Communications. Candace is also a proud member of Dance Masters of America Chapter 17, an international organization that requires examinations to be a member. She has also been an adjudicator for many dance auditions, scholarships, and other competitions, such as Miss San Diego. As an instructor and coach, Candace’s students have received numerous titles, including platinum and first-place awards at the regional and national levels, and some have even danced on The Great Wall of China and pursued dance at the collegiate levels. Her daughter, Reagan Raczynski, a professional ballerina and graduate of the Boston Conservatory at Berklee, is the assistant artistic director and choreographer at the academy.

Candace Sheppard Dance Academy is a place where dancers can truly indulge in their passion for dance while being able to lead a balanced life. “At CSDA, we simply look out for one another and support our students in anything they set out to accomplish. Discipline, camaraderie, confidence, self-expression, mind-body awareness, agility, and artistry are just a few of the skills beyond technique that dancers will gain at CSDA,” says Candace.

Candace shares, “Our accomplished faculty is dedicated to recognizing each dancer’s unique strengths and guiding them with care and professionalism. Whether you are exploring new dance styles or aiming for the next level in your training, we hope CSDA becomes your second home, a place where dreams are nurtured, friendships are formed, and the joy of dance is always center stage. CSDA is where passion meets purpose, and where every student is cheered on like family. Try every genre, chase every dream, and know that we’ll be with you every step (and leap!) of the way.”

"We're happy to announce that we're widening our circle of CSDA dancers, and have expanded to accommodate our growing community," shares Candace. "It's not too late to enroll for our Fall Semester classes! We have over 50 classes/week to choose from. Enroll in our ballet program and join us in our no-cut auditions for our Magical Nutcracker. We welcome you to CSDA and hope to see you dancing this Fall. 

To learn more, visit cshepparddanceacademy.com, call 301-996-0680, or shoot them a DM on Instagram @candace_sheppard_dance_academy.