Champion Ballroom Academy
Ballroom dance lessons and socials owned by Mary Murphy, SYTYCD judge
A ballroom dance studio offering instruction in American and International style dances including Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Cha Cha, Rumba, and Swing.
Photo: Craig Moss via Google
Before your first class
Classes are designed as fun and welcoming for all levels, with an easy-to-follow approach and no partner required for group classes.
New student special $55 (two 30-minute private lessons and one group class); group drop-in $17 or 10-class package $150; private lessons sold individually or in packages of 5–30
About this studio
Champion Ballroom Academy has been a fixture in San Diego's dance community for 34 years, established in 1990. The studio is owned by Mary Murphy, a celebrated ballroom dancer and television personality best known as a judge on Fox's "So You Think You Can Dance." Murphy's own competitive legacy includes winning the Austrian National Championships alongside partner Manfred Stiglitz and reaching the top 10 in the world, plus top finishes at the Southwest Regional Dance Tournament, The Saint Louis Star Ball, The International Grand Ball, and The U.S. Open. Her profile on the studio's site notes she was a finalist for "Dancing with the Stars" and won "Best Host/Judge" at the 2007 Reality TV Awards.
The studio teaches Ballroom, Latin, Smooth, and Rhythm styles across both group and private lessons. Group classes range from the formal Waltz to Swing, run weekdays and require no partner. Drop-in group classes cost $17 or $150 for a package of 10. Private lessons are available individually or in packages of 5–30 lessons for individuals and couples. New students can try two 30-minute private lessons plus one group class for $55.
The instructor team includes Stephen Showers, who has taught professionally since 1983 in Arizona and California and has competed in nearly every style of dancesport including American and International Ballroom, Latin, Swing, and Nightclub dances. Kat Guillot, who has danced since age 3 and competed with a professional bachata partnership, specializes in Latin dances and wedding choreography across 13 dance styles. Dan Gibbons is also listed as a dance instructor. The studio also hosts visits from world-famous dancers including Jonathan Roberts, Louis Van Amstel, Karina Smirnoff, and Shirley Ballas from "So You Think You Can Dance" and "Dancing with the Stars."
Michael Mead and Toni Redpath, described as renowned American Ballroom Champions, give lessons daily and wrote the steps for Dancevision's DVIDA Bronze and Silver Syllabus. Kasia Kozak, a Latin Dance champion, writes American Rhythm steps for Dancevision. The studio's material is featured in Dancevision's course materials used by dance instructors nationwide.
The studio runs dance socials every Friday and Saturday where students can practise their skills. The space is available for rentals including wedding receptions, corporate events, dance competitions, and creative workshops. The studio also lists Kids Classes and Pilates among its offerings.
What to expect
Your first visit
First-time visitors should check the current schedule or contact the studio before attending. Ask whether the class requires advance registration, whether a partner is needed, and what shoes or clothing are recommended.
Instructors
Who teaches here
The studio is owned by Mary Murphy, a competitive ballroom champion and "So You Think You Can Dance" judge. Staff include Stephen Showers (professional instructor since 1983 in Ballroom, Latin, Swing and Nightclub), Kat Guillot (specializing in Latin dances and wedding choreography), and Dan Gibbons. American Ballroom Champions Michael Mead and Toni Redpath teach daily lessons. Kasia Kozak, a Latin Dance champion, also teaches.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Classes are designed as fun and welcoming for all levels, with an easy-to-follow approach and no partner required for group classes.
Studio history
Established in 1990, Champion Ballroom Academy was founded with a vision to create a comfortable community environment where dance students and professionals could thrive. The studio has been a staple in San Diego's dance community for 34 years and claims the best reputation of any ballroom in the greater San Diego area, winning countless awards over its history.
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Amenities
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Champion Ballroom Academyhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Champion Ballroom Academy, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about Champion Ballroom Academy
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Champion Ballroom Academy teach?
Champion Ballroom Academy teaches Ballroom, Latin, Smooth, Rhythm, Waltz, Swing. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Champion Ballroom Academy located?
Champion Ballroom Academy is located in San Diego, CA. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Champion Ballroom Academy offer private lessons?
Contact Champion Ballroom Academy directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Champion Ballroom Academy teach kids and adults?
Champion Ballroom Academy welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at Champion Ballroom Academy?
The fastest path is to visit Champion Ballroom Academy via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.