The Story of Seaside Arts Center

The story of Seaside Arts Center began long before its official founding in 2021. Elyssa Dru Rosenberg, a dance educator with a passion for both the history and practical aspects of dance, had previously established a non-profit dedicated to preserving the legacy of Isadora Duncan, the pioneer of modern dance. After relocating from New York to San Diego, Elyssa re-established her non-profit, isadoraNOW, but quickly realized that San Diego’s needs were different. While her previous model had thrived in New York, Elyssa’s new community required a different approach.

In graduate school at New York University, Elyssa studied dance history and philosophy, researching topics like “The Role of Nietzsche’s Writing in the Foundations of Modern Dance.” But after becoming a mother and living in a city far from New York’s cultural hub, Elyssa’s perspective shifted. She realized that while dance history was fascinating, the pressing needs of her new community called for a more practical approach to arts education.

When she couldn’t find an appropriate dance class for her own son, Elyssa used her skills to create one. Over time, she developed a child-centric, creativity-based curriculum that she had learned during her graduate studies. As she continued to teach more children, Elyssa realized that the demand for arts education in San Diego far exceeded what she could provide with small, community-based classes.

In 2019, Elyssa revitalized her non-profit with a broader mission: to offer high-quality arts education to all children in San Diego County. She was determined to provide every child, regardless of background or economic status, with the life-changing benefits of a robust arts education—an education proven to improve academic performance, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging. Elyssa partnered with local organizations serving vulnerable children, including those who were unhoused, whose parents were deployed, or whose families were impacted by the criminal justice system.

In February 2020, Elyssa organized a performance where children from two different communities in which she worked—one serving children in a highly affluent neighborhood and the other serving homeless students—performed together. The event was a celebration of joy and creativity, with all the children united in their shared love for the arts. It was a powerful reminder of Elyssa’s mission to provide equitable access to arts education, regardless of circumstances.

But just as things were gaining momentum, the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Programs were shut down, and many of the children who needed in-person contact the most were left without access to the arts. During the pandemic, Elyssa was introduced to Anna Fitzgerald, a theater teacher who shared her belief in the power of the arts to nurture creativity, kindness, and community. Anna’s influence inspired Elyssa to expand her vision, rebranding isadoraNOW as Seaside Arts Center—a creative space where children could explore a wide range of artistic disciplines.

With Seaside Arts Center, Elyssa’s goal was clear: to provide children with a transformative arts education that nurtures creativity, builds confidence, and develops essential life skills such as empathy and communication. By the end of 2021, Seaside Arts Center had served over 1,500 students and offered world-class instruction in disciplines ranging from dance and theater to visual arts and vocal performance. Nearly 40% of current students are on full scholarship, and the organization has created a model where paying students help subsidize scholarships for those in need.

One of Seaside’s most popular classes is “Sewing,” a creative outlet that gives children a break from technology and encourages simplicity and focus. Elyssa has witnessed firsthand how children are craving these types of experiences—experiences that help them reconnect with their creativity and imagination.

Despite its success, Seaside Arts Center faces growing pains. The studio is quickly outgrowing its space, and there are teachers ready to expand programming to more schools and communities, but funding remains a challenge. The need for arts education is more pressing than ever, especially as children continue to recover from the effects of the pandemic.

As Seaside Arts Center continue to grow and serve more children, we need more community support. Every donation directly supports scholarships, programming, and the expansion of arts education. With the support of the community, Seaside will continue to empower children and foster a creative, inclusive environment where every child feels they belong.

The journey of Seaside Arts Center is just beginning. With your help, Elyssa’s vision can continue to inspire and transform the lives of children for years to come.