The mission of the DSPA Gems non-profit organization is to provide quality dance education and performance opportunities to children in Maricopa.  It is our goal to raise funds to pay for dance classes, costumes, competitions and performances for as many kids as possible. This also encompasses our Inspire classes.  Inspire was created in 1997 to fufill the need for dance for individuals with special needs.  It was initially created for wheelchair users and has since grown to meet the needs of those with autism and developmental delays.  

It is DSPA’s vision to provide the highest quality dance education in a nurturing and caring environment.  We strive to instill a love of the performing arts while cultivating the highest levels of professional practice.  Through the Gems, students participate in an intensive training program in all forms of dance including ballet, jazz, lyrical, tap, contemporary, pointe, jazz funk, tumbling and more. In addition, students in DSPA Gems must meet rigid schedules, rehearsals, financial and other requirements. Participation in DSPA Gems is a privilege and all students must audition to participate as a member.

DSPA Gems presents students with the opportunity to be part of a team, learn new skills, new dances and choreography as well as dance with other students of different backgrounds and skill levels. Gems dancers may also receive national recognition and professional opportunities through their exposure as a member of DSPA Gems.

DSPA Gems Competition Team is comprised of four groups:  Amethysts, Diamonds, Rubies, and Sapphires.  Our competition teams perform at various events and competitions.

Two new dance companies are being created for the upcoming 2010-2011 year.  A new hip hop dance company called “Emeralds” for ages 10 and up.  This group will focus on learning and competing hip hop by professional dancer and choreographer Miguel Acero.

Additionally, a ballet company called “Pearls” will be created.  This group will not be a competitive team, rather it will focus intensely on ballet with the intention of one day performing full ballets such as “The Nutcracker”  This group will be led by studio owner Ceylan Gentilella.

Desert Sun Performing Arts is Maricopa's premiere dance and performing arts school.  Under Artistic Director and Founder, Ceylan Gentilella, we provide Maricopa dancers opportunities to broaden their horizons through technique, performance, and competition.  For additional information on DSPA visit www.desertsunperformingarts.com.