Established in 1996 as a non-profit organization, Marin Dance Theatre has quickly become an internationally recognized school for classical ballet and contemporary dance education. Our innovative training programs – based on techniques developed over the last twenty-five years by our founding Artistic Director, Margaret Swarthout and School Director,  Lynn Cox – have provided children ages 3-19 exceptional dance instruction in a nurturing environment.

The dance education center is located in one of Northern California’s most spectacular and pastoral settings, a 160-year old Spanish-style mission located twenty minutes north of San Francisco.

Enrolled in our year-round programs are students from all over the United States. When students graduate, some follow a career-bound path in the world of professional ballet; others enter university performing arts programs, and many choose to pursue dance as an avocation.