Executive Director of Faculty and Creative Programs

Robert Duran is a visionary in the dance world, known for his innovative style, magnetic stage presence, and unwavering passion for the art of movement. His dynamic choreography and refined teaching techniques have made him one of the most in-demand master instructors at both national and international dance conventions.

As a proud member of the American Guild of Variety Artists, Robert has graced stages as a featured performer in numerous productions for The Walt Disney Company, captivating audiences with his artistry and professionalism. His choreography has been showcased in original productions across New York, Canada, Lake Tahoe, and on Carnival Cruise Lines, earning acclaim for its creativity and impact.

Robert is the founding director and choreographer of The Dance Place, a premier competitive dance school in California that he led for 25 years after establishing it in 1993. Under his leadership, the school became known for producing technically strong, artistically expressive dancers who thrive in high-level competition.

He also served as the musical theater director for the prestigious Commercial Dance Conservatory at the Orange County School of the Arts, where he helped shape the next generation of performers with a blend of discipline, artistry, and storytelling.

Robert’s work consistently stands apart in the competitive dance arena, celebrated for its originality, visual brilliance, and impeccable production quality. His choreography has garnered numerous national titles and accolades from some of the most respected competitions and conventions in the country, solidifying his reputation as a true creative force in the industry.