mISSION

Soul of Cali is A Creative Arts Haven for Kids, and Kids at Heart.

Our joy felt mission is providing programs for families who value inclusive, collaborative learning experiences through the arts. Soul of Cali's circle of mentors and peers are devoted to protecting a haven that cultivates growth with out judgment, inspires genuine expression, and develops confidence from the inside out.

The Soul of Cali Dance experience

is a playful and powerful crossroad, where athleticism and artistry intersect.

Students gain the same benefits as sports participants through physical movement, strategy building, and sportsmanship, while also developing voice and creative expression through the arts.

"Wherever you stand be the soul of that place."

Founder & Director Lisa Medford

As my mother watched “Dirty Dancing” in the movie theater, I made my dance debut with a kick in the womb. My early youth was immersed in the discipline and grace of the "Evergreen City Ballet", in Washington state, directed by Wade Walthall. My ballet upbringing began my life long collaboration with dance as a way a life.

At age 16, the liveliness of the Seattle Hip-Hop scene drew me in, and inspired me to move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the commercial dance industry. Dance adventures ranged from training in New York City at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, dancing as the futuristic leading lady in Steve Aoki and Waka Flocka’s music video, "Rage the Night Away." (parent advisory due to language) to dreaming up "Soul of Cali" in 2021, a place for youth to create, and discover personal expression from the inside out.

With over 10 years of experience teaching in dance studios, public schools, colleges, and reggio based preschools, I have arrived at a lively crossroad between dance instruction and early childhood education.

“Save the World”, my first published dance along for kids, produced by Mega Mace, translated into several languages and broadcasted by Cyberobics through out Europe. The night before it's release in Berlin, I discovered I would be a mom! I am passionate about playfully growing alongside our children. I am committed to fueling families. We are in this together. Let's dance!