faculty

Justin

Contemporary, Jazz, Improv

Justin Pham is a highly talented dancer, choreographer, and creative director based in San Diego, California. A graduate of the prestigious USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance, Justin earned a BFA in Dance and a Minor in Cinematic Arts. During his time at USC, he had the privilege of studying under some of the most renowned artists and directors in the industry, including William Forsythe, Jodie Gates, and Desmond Richardson—all of whom shaped his technical prowess and artistic vision.

Justin’s professional career began in college, when he signed with Go 2 Talent Agency and performed in iLuminate’s Las Vegas show. His breakout moment came when he competed on So You Think You Can Dance (SYTYCD) Season 14, advancing to the Top 20 and performing in the Emmy Award-winning routine “Brand New”. Justin’s TV appearances and high-profile performances on SYTYCD brought him widespread recognition, further solidifying his reputation as an outstanding performer.

In addition to his work on SYTYCD, Justin has danced in music videos for renowned artists such as Half Alive and Jesse y Joy, showcasing his versatility across different music genres. He has also worked with numerous choreographers and directors to create dynamic performances for a variety of live events and productions.

While Justin’s dance career is thriving, it is his passion for choreography that truly drives him. He has set pieces across the country and directed and produced multiple independent dance films. His innovative choreography earned him a finalist spot at the 2017 McCallum Choreography Festival, and in 2020, he was named a choreographic finalist at the prestigious Capezio A.C.E. Awards. Justin’s choreographic work has also been featured in performances at the Laguna Art Museum, commissioned by the Laguna Dance Festival—a testament to his ability to merge dance with visual and performing arts in impactful ways.

As a nationwide guest instructor and a virtual educator on CLI Studios, Justin is passionate about sharing his knowledge and elevating the next generation of dancers. He strives to offer a more cognitive and educational perspective on dance and choreography, especially through the lenses of film and television. Justin’s goal is to be a multifaceted artist who shapes the future of dance by merging his love for performance with his expertise in creative direction and media.

Justin joined Immerse Artists Experience (IAX) as a special guest artist during Season 3 and has been a valued member ever since. His contributions to IAX continue to inspire and nurture dancers, helping them develop both their technical abilities and artistic voices. In addition to his work with IAX, Justin currently serves as the director of the Industry Program at a leading Southern California dance studio, where he prepares students for careers in the professional dance world—beyond the competition stage.

Justin is excited to continue inspiring dancers worldwide, and his journey as a creative director and interdisciplinary artist shows his commitment to redefining dance for future generations.