VIIIZON Academy
Multi-level dance training for ages 2–18 and adults in Albuquerque
VIIIZON Academy is a training school in Albuquerque founded on the principle that dance is more than technique—it's a way of being.
Photo: Vanessa Mathis via Google
Before your first class
Beginning Ballet, Beginning Heels, and Hip Hop Fundamentals classes are designed for newcomers; ages are outlined by class level but do not strictly limit placement.
Academy classes: $50 for 1 class, $75 for 2 hours, $100 for 3 hours, $125 for 4 hours, $150 for 5 hours, $200 unlimited summer session.
About this studio
VIIIZON Academy is a training school in Albuquerque founded on the principle that dance is more than technique—it's a way of being. Co-owned and directed by Trey Pickett and Vanessa Mathis, the academy takes a holistic approach to training, ensuring students develop mentally, emotionally, and physically. Trey Pickett is a renowned international artist who has performed at the Kennedy Center, won prestigious awards for choreography, and developed a nationally accredited curriculum; his students have won World of Dance, worked at Disney, and booked major artists. Vanessa Mathis holds degrees and accreditations in CYFD, social work, life coaching, and nutrition, and has trained students who have entered professional companies, appeared on SYTYCD, performed at Coachella, and danced alongside top artists.
The academy runs two sessions yearly: Fall (August 10–December 20) and Spring (January 4–May 28). Classes are organized by age and level. Pre-Academy serves ages 2–4 with Hip Hop + Acro on Wednesdays. Minis (ages 5–8) take Jazz, Hip Hop, Ballet, and Contemporary across Tuesday and Thursday slots. Juniors (ages 9–12) study Contemporary, Hip Hop, Ballet, and Jazz on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Varsity (ages 13–17) trains in Ballet, Jazz/Contemporary, and Hip Hop on Thursdays. Drop-in classes for adults (18+) are generally open level and include Heels Foundation, Contemporary, Beginning Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Choreography classes.
Community classes open to all ages and levels run throughout the week: Hip Hop Fundamentals and Afro Cuban/Samba on Mondays, Fitness classes Tuesday–Thursday, Open Acro on Friday, Pilates with Alyssa and a rotating Pop Up Class on Saturday. The academy's mission focuses on serving Black, Native, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities, while welcoming individuals from all racial, ethnic, and financial groups. The studio was voted Best Dance Studio in Albuquerque for 2022 and again in 2025.
Beyond regular classes, VIIIZON runs a Competition Team (all styles including ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, strength, flexibility, acro, plus dance history and wellness education), a Hip Hop Team exploring hip hop culture and commercial styles, and an Adult Company training in industry/commercial styles, fundamentals, classical styles, acting, and modeling. The academy regularly performs in the community: VIIIZON dancers opened for Twista at the International Fest on May 30th and will open for an Albuquerque Isotopes game on June 16, 2026.
What to expect
Your first visit
VIIIZON offers classes for ages 2 through adult; new students can schedule a consultation to observe classes, meet staff and members, and ask questions directly. Classes are tailored to age group and skill level, with a focus on building confidence, dedication, and connection to craft.
Instructors
Who teaches here
The academy is led by founders Trey Pickett (Director, Lead Choreographer & Instructor) and Vanessa Mathis (Director, Lead Choreographer & Instructor). Additional instructors include Ms Asha (Ballet), Natalia D'Elia (Division 1 Hip Hop), Andrea Rae Chavarria, and Kandace Montoya (Heels).
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Beginning Ballet, Beginning Heels, and Hip Hop Fundamentals classes are designed for newcomers; ages are outlined by class level but do not strictly limit placement.
Studio history
VIIIZON Academy is in its sixth year of operation and has grown to serve the Albuquerque community as a hub for performing arts training. The academy was voted Best Dance Studio in Albuquerque in both 2022 and 2025.
Styles offered
11 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
VIIIZON Academyhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own VIIIZON 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 VIIIZON Academy
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does VIIIZON Academy teach?
VIIIZON Academy teaches General, Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Heels (Stiletto Dance) and 5 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is VIIIZON Academy located?
VIIIZON Academy is located in Albuquerque, NM. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does VIIIZON Academy offer private lessons?
Contact VIIIZON Academy directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does VIIIZON Academy teach kids and adults?
VIIIZON 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 VIIIZON Academy?
The fastest path is to visit VIIIZON Academy via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.