On March 30, 2009, two well-known pre-professional dance studios merged to form The California Conservatory of Dance, a school uniquely equipped to provide dancers with the range of skills they will need to succeed in all forms of their art. With two complete programs taught in The CCDs expansive facility, entering students have the option of training solely in the Classical or Contemporary Conservatory Division or training simultaneously in both. Directed by Melissa Allen Bowman, the Classical Conservatory Division uses American Ballet Theatres® National Training Curriculum to create a solid technical base, regardless if those training in the program aspire to become professional dancers or not. The rich modern program is directed by Jennifer Backhaus, founder of the commercially successful Backhausdance. Collocating two powerful programs enables classical and modern dancers to cross train and receive high-quality instruction in both worlds. For those interested in recreational dancing, The CCD offers a variety of open classes in many different styles for all ages and levels.