I came here to Chicago all the way from Austria for a vacation. I wanted to dance, because I love it, I tried out some Dance schools but none was as welcoming and charming as Joel Hall's Dance Center! I entered the studio everybody was so nice from the first minute that I attended classes there everyday 3 weeks long! The teachers are all really professional and push you to your limits, but still they are strict in a caring way and motivate you to keep on working! Joel Hall himself still teaches classes and I attended his Jazz Dance Method, which is really hard work! He himself said: "We're gonna kill you, but you're gonna love it." and that's just the way it is! You develop such an ambition that you keep on stretching and tightening your tummy and it's the best work out you can get! The Jazz, Modern and HipHop classes with Will Gill were absolutely wonderful too! I always did 2 classes in a row, although I was already soaking wet, but he keeps making you want to dance more and more! I can recommend this Dance Center to really everybody! No other dance studio in Chicago makes you feel at home so quickly and every class is worth attending because I've never learned so much technique and also feeling for dancing and music before than I did in this 3 weeks at Joel Hall! I'm gonna miss it in Austria! I hope I'll come back soon! read more

Joel Hall Dancers & Center - Dance Schools Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

A great adult jazz class. The teacher was really understanding to the fact that I had never danced like this before and the class was clearly geared towards beginner adults looking for a workout. My only complaint would be that the studio was way too hot and there is no water fountain. I know that studios are supposed to be warm but we were in the room by the front window so it got really hot really fast. I almost passed out only to find that there was no drinking fountain. They do, however, sell water from a refrigerator which was a saving grace. Overall, they were very welcoming and organized, and I would definitely come again! read more

I have wanted to dance all my life, but as a 6' tall, gangly, coordination challenged individual, I haven't had much courage to step into a dance studio. When I moved to Edgewater last year, I researched Joel Hall, but again, discouraged myself from going. And now I am kicking myself that it took me 13 whole months to get my butt out of the house and into the studio. I went for the first time recently, and I don't mean to be dramatic, but it has already changed my life. From the first class I felt welcomed, encouraged, and assisted. When they say this studio is diverse, it's not just a line. There is every race, gender, age, and skill level represented in all of the classes I have been to. And yet, it still felt like one cohesive group working together. I never felt judged by a teacher, or more talented student, and when I say I am a novice, that is not humility in anyway. The positive energy that streams from the staff, to the teachers, to the students is palpable. I only wish I could do more to support their amazing work, because I am so excited to continue going and join the family that this studio has created. read more

Let me tell you a little story: I moved all over the place when I was a kid, and I only ever got a few opportunities to try ballet. During my first foray into dance (circa pre-Kindergarten), I got in trouble for wearing a red Miss Piggy leotard instead of a black one. In my second (circa third grade), the only person on our overseas Air Force Base who could teach ballet got pregnant and quit teaching. In my heart, however, I always *knew* I was meant to be a ballerina. Fast forward several years: now I teach pilates, a discipline that goes hand-in-hand with ballet and seems to attract lots of former dancers and choreographers. I thought it might be a good idea to find out more about dance (for professional reasons, of course... not to edify my slightly deranged fantasy of becoming a ballerina in my 30s). A client gave me a gift certificate for classes at Joel Hall and, after purchasing the requisite black leotard, pink tights, and ballet shoes, I started going to classes. I can see how Joel Hall might not be for everyone, especially if you're someone who gets frustrated when you don't get something right the first time. (I am not, since it usually takes me about twice as long as the average person to understand dance steps.) I've been going to Aimee Tye's ballet classes pretty regularly for the last few months, though, and I am starting to see my work pay off. Kind of. Well, incrementally. But, still, it feels good. Aimee herself is extremely encouraging before, during, and after class, but I have to say that the other students really make the experience. Everyone in my classes has been nothing but friendly and extremely encouraging. (Like, as in, I got high fives all around the first time I did a spot turn. Where were you people when I won the Geography Bee in eighth grade?) In sum, a great place to learn to dance within a community of dancers. Now, if you'll excuse me, H&M just got in this baby pink leotard/dress thing with an enormous puffy tutu attached... read more

I decided to take a BEGINNING hip hop class at Joel Hall. I have lots of dance experience but had never taken hip hop and I am out of shape to boot, so I wanted a fun class that wouldn't seem overwhelming. This was in no way a beginner's class. A third of the class consisted of advanced hip hop dancers that took over the class and demanded all the attention. The rest of us beginners were degraded by the teacher. If I pay for a beginner's class, I want a beginner's class. I recommend Lou Conte. It's out of the way, but much more user-friendly and worth the trek. read more

I have a tot that's enrolled at the Joel Hall Dance Center. She's been to 3 classes now for the Little Feet Ballet class and she loves it! Another post said that they do not baby the kids which is a plus point. She's learning so much from these classes from motor skills, listening, taking directions from the teacher, and most importantly having fun! Since, we were going to be out of town and will be missing a couple of classes we were allowed to make up 2 sessions (I had already paid for the class). In addition, the location is 3 blocks from me and the dance space is huge! At the end of the semester, the dancers put on a show. I am really looking forward to seeing her first dance recital. Thanks Joel Hall Dance Center! read more

Love, love, love this place. The best teachers I have had are: Aimee Tye - teaches ballet and is extremely good at explaining things and breaking things down Betsy Herskind - very kind, and is very much like a lovely grandma doing ballet with you. Pam Tanis - very quick, and to the point. you get a lot of work done Birute Barodicaite - same as Pam Joel Hall - His class is great for core training, but it is no joke. Be prepared to work your ass off. Mark Yonally - Great for a beginner. If you are an advanced tapper, go to Giordano's on Monday night. Not so great: Mike Gosney - Good class, and makes you work, but he is not very creative with his center combinations, and he usually seems to favor those he has a relationship with. something Vargas? - Her class was just a little disjointed, and very unpredictable. Not my cup of tea. I was a fan of the old studio. The new studio is fine, but is not as great. Whereas the old place had 5 studios, this place only has 4. Also, one of the studios is EXTREMELY narrow, which makes certain dance classes very frustrating. The big studio is rather spacious, but is still is only moderately sized. The room can not handle more than 30 people. The great thing about the dance center is that it is very much community oriented. After going there for about 6 months, everybody who works there knows my name, and I feel very much at home. read more

I am surprised that no recent reviews have been posted about this place. This review is only for my experience with the toddler ballet class. I was looking for a pre-ballet class for my toddler that was not downtown or in the Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, Lakeview neighborhoods. I wanted something close where parking would not be a huge challenge. I chose this place mostly out of convenience and also because they seemed very casual and no sign of a snotty dance school. However, this place is BADLY run. They are NOT organized, they change schedules without notifying the parents, the owner/manager does not even apologize for the inconsistencies. ( I asked to speak to the owner/manager and I never got a return phone call despite leaving 2 vcml messages) We really liked Cayla, she was wonderful, poised and a true professional in her art. However, Destiny...who is the one that was leading the class because schedules changed (again, no notification to the parents), conducted the class in a SWEATSHIRT and big baggy SWEATPANTS that looked like pajamas... I would like to think that I am not being overly picky on stuff, but this to me is unacceptable. This is not just any dance class, it is a ballet class, the teacher is the first one that is supposed to have appropriate attire. That was a big turn-off. Next, the class had NO classical/little kid's music to accompany the class like Cayla had done. Her music selection was classical but the kind of fun classical music geared to kids under age 5. With Destiny however, they were "dancing" to Fergie and the Black Eyed Peas..for a second I thought maybe she was in a wrong class because certainly just because you twirl around like a ballerina to the backdrop of "I got a feeling" does NOT make it a ballet class. (The class continued with other pop songs as background music) Maybe my expectations were off. I am not paying $90+ dollars to have my daughter dance to pop music. We do that at home all the time free of charge. I want my daughter to learn the art form of ballet and become acquainted with the ballet concepts and moves. Fifteen minutes before the class ended, Destiny decides to give the students a walk through of the dance studio...she waits for all to stand in line and follow her around to show them the different studios. The Studio itself is small and only has two other dance studios...why is she using class time to show them something that is not even relevant to class? Can we say KILLING TIME? Perhaps maybe I do need a more structured, professional setting to enroll my daughter in. This school is just too disorderly for me. read more

Amazing, super affordable dance classes! I've taken Ballet 1 & Ballet 2 and love the pace that the teachers move at - they are all about technique, but they move at a pace that keeps everyone really interested. The dance rooms are huge and full of mirrors, giving students lots of opportunity to self-correct. The teachers are very friendly and approachable. Love taking classes here! Highly recommended! read more

With a weekend class called "Fierce Ballet" how can you possibly go wrong? I've been going to Joel Hall Dance Center off and on since they had a location in Andersonville and carteed their talented crew to Hyde Park to teach classes at the University of Chicago. I would traipse across the country to take a hip hop class with these folks, but now I don't have to. They have settled into my wonderful neighborhood of Edgewater, and I hope they never leave. There is no pretense in this studio, just pure love of dance with a diverse staff and dedicated students. David at the front desk is a sweetheart. A single class is $12, or you can buy a class card for the season at a cheaper rate. Go shake your tush with some amazing people at Joel Hall, you won't regret it. read more

Chicago is lucky to be able to lay claim to having Joel Hall Dance Center right here in Chicago! I am so proud of this dance center. Everyone's NICE and PROFESSIONAL and Joel is the Fountain of Youth! read more

Joel Hall Dancers & Center - Alexandria with Joel Hall! - Dance Schools Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Joel hall is the best!! I was looking for a professional yet fun place for my daughter to begin extra curricula activities! This dance company is perfect! They are laid back enough, so that anyone feels welcome. However they are extremely professional when it comes to dance. They have always had a reputation as an excellent dance company, but they are also an excellent teaching company for little ones! What I love most is the unpretentious attitude and the mix of people. All are welcome. My daughter is in a class that she absolutely adores. She is 3 and talks about her teacher all week, after classes. That's the best endorsement ever. read more

I took a pre-beginner class called "Push Your Tush" here. It was promoted as a class for beginners or for people who hadn't danced in a while and wanted to get back into it (I fall into that category). I will say, I had a great time in class, and everyone was super nice. The problem is that the class was waaaaaay too easy (and I am not a great dancer by any stretch of the imagination). Next time I will take a Beginner or Level 1 class. Also, class prices are reasonable, but the class cards are only valid for that particular term. Meaning, if you buy a 10 class card, but only go to 8 classes in a particular 2 month period, you lose the other 2. Boo. They should definitely carry over, since the class cards are valid for any mix and match combination of classes anyway. read more

I'm from out of town, and one of my favorite things to do when I travel is to take a dance class. I was fortunate enough to take the Horton technique class. The teacher was extremely professional, and explained many movements. The other students in the class were very professional about their decorum. I had a great time and workout! read more

I'm not a dancer... oh, far from it! I used to think I was but my "dancing" was more like a very acrobatic Joe Cocker going through some kind of spastic meltdown. Anyways, we just signed up my daughter (5) for classes here. The range of classes they have for kids is pretty impressive. I never imagined that as a 4 year old you could take organized tap dance classes - that's more a sign of my ignorance than anything. But there are neat classes in "creative movement" for toddlers that are about exploring different ways to approach dance without channeling them into specific dance disciplines - tap, ballet, etc. We have her signed up for Saturday morning classes. The place is overrun with children and groggy parents then. Don't worry, it's right across from Kopi Cafe and down the street from the Swedish Bakery (that's where I go with our 2 year old while his sister's in class). The price for the classes is reasonable, about $10 / $12 per class for toddlers, more for the bigger kids, with rates for 9 week sessions as well. I have no ability or qualification to judge the instructors, but they seem very energetic (duh) and good at engaging the kids. The desk staff here are a mixed bag, though, and not all of them seem to be too clear about the policies, or maybe it's that they're not consistent in what they say. It's also tough when kids' classes are in session to deal with the business of the classes - the desk can have several parents waiting to sign up, register, pay, ask questions, whatever, with only one person on hand to deal with them all. This while a roomful of three foot whirling dervishes are spinning around like a tiny fleshy tornado on every side... it's not an orderly situation, but that's not really the fault of the Joel Hall people. All in all, two thumbs up. This is a real gem of a place to have in Chicago. read more

Joel Hall Dancers & Center needs to be better known in its community. It really is a gem for Rogers Park/Edgewater/Andersonville. I've been coming here for the last three months and finally fulfilling my promise to myself to get back in the studio. I am very pleased with my experience. The classes are very affordable, especially considering the quality of instruction. $15 for 90 minutes is fantastic ($10 if you're a student!), and they offer a full schedule of a variety of dance for both children and adults, from ballet to jazz to tap to modern and even musical theater. All four instructors I've had have been great, offering technical instruction while maintaining a positive atmosphere. Bonus: the #22 bus has a stop in front of the center, in both directions. There is also some street parking available. I'm giving JHDC four stars instead of I've because the facilities are in some disrepair. Broken mirrors, broken barres, ragged floor tape, not even a water fountain. But they are currently renovating and at least adding a couple additional bathrooms. I hope bigger and better changes are planned! This great dance center is worth a great facility! read more

Great place to get back in to dance, rigorously train, or even just pop in now and then for a single class. Supportive teachers, serious work ethic, and a welcoming environment. Be willing push yourself, and stay positive; I promise, you'll love it! Only downside: They don't post what studios the classes are in, so I often feel a little confused and unsure of where to go. read more

My son attended its kids programs twice. I really like its kids programs. The teacher worked well with little kids. In the lobby, the front desk ladies were warm and helpful. There were inspirational posters all over the studio and i really like that. Parking is challenging. The studio needs to be cleaned more often. These are the only reasons that I did not give a 5 star. read more

I've taken tap here. I love that you can pay as you go (10 bucks each class with my teacher discount). No commitment, no registration, super easy. Awesome teacher. I'm not only learning tap, I'm also learning about the history of tap. This is a beginner class, but is fine for people who have some experience too (I did some tap as a pre-teen and find the class challenging and fun). There is a dance store right across the street where you can buy your tap shoes :) read more

Finally thanks to Carolyn S on YELP- I found a dance center just like the Dance Mission back in SF. The took the Hip-Hop class @ 6:30pm Wed and it was AMAZING!!!!!!! Will Gill taught in such a similar fashion with lots of energy & FUN!!!!!! But- he is fast paced- so be prepared to keep up and pay attention!!!!! It is a bit more $$$ - as 7 classes were $98 - and back in SF it was 10 classes for $110. But I am happy to just find a DANCE PLACE to call home- so paying more $ is well worth it:) read more

Joel Hall is not only ONE FABULOUS DANCE Instructor, But Also A KIND,COMPASSIONATE,CARING SOUL.... All three of my daughters have had the pleasure of dancing under Joel's AMAZING, ARTICULATE , and TALENTED instruction. They learned not only the FINEST of techniques,but also the spirit that comes from and through dance. He has given my girls CONFIDENCE and PRIDE in their work ,and this is a MAJOR source of ONE'S needs in the world of dance, and beyond... He CARES about each individual with respect,and I honor him for this, and his WONDERFUL work as a teacher,and excellent coreographer... ~ Sandy R.~ read more

I used to pass by Joel Hall going to Rogers Park for many years until a friend of mine was taking classes there for about ten years. I just recently saw her in a show that the center puts on every summer it's called Dances in the Hall. Now mind you the dance culture is very harsh and judgmental and you're expected to look a certain way. When I came to support my friend I knew that she was in a place that she felt safe and nobody judged her. Joel makes his students feel welcome of all shapes and sizes. You want to be somewhere that makes you feel accepted and included. It's hard enough to get through a world that is size-obsessed and you're forced to be something you are not, The dancers in the show were feeling insecure about performing because going back to my original point the dance world is not friendly to those with larger body types or other differences. I feel uncomfortable seeing thin dancers it can draw out insecurities and I've never felt comfortable in my body and yet seeing Dances in the Hall I slowly felt better knowing I was in a place that encourages people to be their authentic self whether you're straight or LGBTQ. To pursue your love of dance you want to be someplace where you're welcomed regardless of your body type and have a willingness and passion for learning then you'll be right at home with Joel Hall. This place needs to put up a rainbow flag to let people know that they are gay-friendly since it's founder Joel Hall is a proud openly gay man and very sweet and friendly as well as funny. They rely on donations to help the school grow and expand and that also helps keep class costs low because some dance schools charge a bit for classes and Joel Hall charges $10 a class which is awesome because people can work that into their budgets if they want to take a class when their schedules allow. Either way, you can't go wrong coming here it's a great place to learn dance whether you're a beginner or a seasoned veteran. read more

Definitely not the type of place I would recommend sending young girls. I am 32 now, but took some classes here in my teenage years. The teachers were great at destroying self esteem and being downright cruel. They also pick and choose who they want to work with and if you are not some Joffrey headed dancer, they will treat you like garbage. They pretend it's a casual environment, but honestly it's not. If you are part of their clique, it may be ok but if you are somebody doing it for a hobby or fitness, go elsewhere. In my case, I started dancing when I was 3 and took classes all throughout my childhood years. Never really was serious about it though. Still, I loved dance and loved what it did for my body. Unfortunately, I did not feel welcome here. After a teacher was mean to me, my mother had approached her and said I had been to many dance classes since I was a kid and never treated so mean and the teacher responded to her, "It doesn't look like it." This woman called herself Boogie. She pretended to be nice, but was really a miserable woman with bad acne. I also only came here as my aunt used to take classes here in the 80s. I guess different times. I also agree with the woman who talked about classes being taught in pajamas. That seemed typical. read more

Dear Parents, This is my daughter's second home, and I don't think she could have found a warmer, more welcoming place to learn and grow. The instructors don't coddle or baby the kids. If you're there, they assume it's to learn serious technique and to get real correction and direction. Now that she's taking some adult classes, she's getting a really unique experience--one I don't think many kids get: often, the instructor who was teaching her class in the morning is a classmate in the afternoon. Taking class with professionals who hold themselves to such a high standard has been amazing for her. Also, her grades actually got better the more time she spent dancing (I think it's the overall discipline). She takes nutrition seriously, and feels great about herself. I cannot recommend this place enough either as a launch pad for a serious dancer or just as a place for kids to sweat and have fun. Prices are reasonable, the neighborhood is fun and funky, and the heart they cram into those studios is huge. read more

I signed my three year old son up for creative movement at Joel Hall on Clark with Berit Godo for the winter 2019 session. My son has been in daycare and now preschool for several years and has participated in swimming and soccer and has always enjoyed and done well in group classes. At our first class, he did well. We observed from the window and he was clearly enjoying himself and was listening and following directions. When it was time to end class, without first learning my sons name or greeting us, they stated that he was not ready for the class. As a teacher, I was shocked that this is how they approached us as our first interaction. I stated that he is 3 and the class is for 3-4 year olds. They again stated maybe he wasn't ready. When I asked why, they said something around his feet and hands. I was confused and upset at this point, as all the other parents and kids were behind us in line observing this since they were measuring all the kids for their outfits. I asked for more specifics around this statement and also let them know that I watched the entire class and observed him trying and attending to directions. They couldn't give me any specifics. After this, we went back and forth with the director throughout the week who was kind and responsive. But we were given different accounts of what happened, reported by the teacher to the director. Essentially, we took away that they should have a prerequisite or tryout for their 3-4 year old class (which is completely ridiculous) and that their instructor was not trained around professionalism or how to work with a 3 year old that doesn't have prior ballet experience, as well as that age group in general. I know that this is not the type of class we are interested in - one that makes a judgement before learning the name of the child and after a 25 min dance class. We will not be returning and we will be looking for more inclusive, supportive studios in the future. read more

Yay! I'm a fan. Every Thursday, ahem well almost every, I take evening lessons at 8. They used to have 2 nights a week for my level, they cut it down to one and lately there were lots of cancellations. My last ballet instructor left the studio and not sure who replaced her. The overall trend at Joel Hall is contemporary, even the ballet classes seemed a lot simplified than rigid classical instruction. Personally I liked instructor Teinowitz class. read more

Just started ballet lessons for my 3-year-old. We tried some of the fancier dance schools, but were paying through our nose for the "pretty" decor and accessories. Joel Hall is down the street from us and our first experience there was fairly good. I would give them four stars, but for the fact that I found them a little disorganized. After some effort with registering, we waited for the class to start, but were not directed to the room it was being held. If I had not asked five minutes after the start of the class, we may have waited for a longer time at the front. The class itself was a mixed age class because of the holidays, but the teacher paid a lot of attention to my shy child and seemed to understand her starting issues. I am hoping that the regular classes are more organized now that I know my way around. Will update this review once I have more experience with them. read more

This is a dance studio filled with joy and welcome. There is a wide open common space in the center of all the studios that makes me feel at home and the studios themselves are pretty good (but not huge). The staff is great, the students are generally kind, and the teachers definitely know what they're doing (with the exception of one or two, but every studio has that). Also, they offer student rates for college and high school students. Joel Hall has created an oasis for dancers and you can tell that he honestly cares about the students who dance in his space. read more

I love taking classes here. I take the hip hop classes and I am extremely tempted to take a tap class. I just have to dust off the ol tap shoes and for someone to dust me off and get me to just go already. $10 bucks a class is pretty unbeatable and you can also get cheap rates for taking numerous classes. The hip hop class is awesome. There are a great mix of people there every week. William Gill is a great instructor. He keeps the classes fun but he will work you. I know they are moving soon so I had to write a review for this space. I love that space and will be sad to see it go. read more

First. My daughter won tickets a year ago to one of their performances through a school event. I followed up twice with JH and no response. JH staff came to another school event, smiling and so proud, when asked about those tickets....The woman said OH, you can take a class at our studio. I call ahead to confirm a Fit Funk Hip Hop class on Tuesday, March 10 and the confirm that they are having it. I arrive at the start time of 6:45 and am told that the instructor is waiting to for more students. Not a professional start time but I am patient. The instructor comes out and tells me that she needs at least 5 people to have the class because she is only paid if she has a minimum of 5. She had 3 people at this point. She said, "Do you blame me for not wanting to teach if I don't get paid?" I suggested that she be professional to the people who planned their days around this activity. I suggested that if she works for an organization that is this unprofessional that she find one where she can feel as if she has integrity. She missed the point. She said that all studios do this. I called Giordano and they pay their instructors for the the time at the class so you don't have to wonder whether or not you are going to have your class. In 3 years of classes at Giordano, they have always been gracious. Lastly, as I have tried to put performance groups together, twice I left a message for an instructor and he didn't return my call. I then spoke to a female instructor who expressed enthusiasm in participating in my program. Called her twice and guess what??? She never returned my call! read more

Love this place!! My daughter is 2 1/2 and she loves it here too! This is our third dance studio. The first class we tried through Design Dance, instruction was fine, maybe the teacher tried to discipline a little too much but generally ok. Problem? It was held in a play school class with toys! Not conducive to learning for a 2yo. Next, fast forward to Gus Giordano, soooo disapointing. One, you can't be in the same room, ok, we went with it, she cried but was generally ok, second class is open to the public, she got overwhelmed with all of the extra people, she cried. Third class she was scared from what happened at the previous class, she cried, I got an email saying she wasn't welcomed back and maybe we should try again next year. :/ So, we do our research, we consider various options, because daughter still wants to dance, we decide to try another neighborhood option, Joel Hall Studio. What a difference! It was fabulous. It's sooo happy, and bright, and colorful. It's what I imagine a dance studio in NYC to be like. The kids are encouraged to wear whatever they want, they incorporate wands, ribbons, etc. The teacher is great at balancing following directions and just letting the kids enjoy the freedom to dance. What a breath of fresh air compared to our two previous experiences. I assume that we will continue with this studio as long as we are in the neighborhood and daughter wants to dance! read more

Our family has been going to Joel Hall Dance Center for six years. They are very professional, their kids classes are fun and educational. And their classes for adults are very solid. They have a solid curriculum too. Great ballet, jazz, modern, and even some hip-hop classes. read more

Whether you're a kid who just wants to play around and have fun, someone who is serious about dancing, or someone who hasn't danced in a while/would like to try it, Joel Hall Dance Center is most definitely for you. I have been dancing for 10 years, and half that at Joel Hall. I've taken a variety of classes there, and all of them have been beneficial to me. I currently am taking 6 classes a week there, and each instructor is very talented and professional, as they should be. The staff are always friendly (and they greet me by name, and know what classes I take). If you want a good stretch on Saturday morning, I recommend Mr. Hall's jazz floor barre that goes from 11:15-1. (You'll be sore until the next class!) In case you were wondering, I take classes with: -Duwane Pendarvis (Horton) -Marshall Mitchell (Graham) -Betsy Herskind (Ballet) -Heather Zimny (Ballet & Jazz) -David Leef (Hip Hop) -Joel Hall (Jazz) I hope my point(e)less (get it, pointe? no? Well, I thought it was punny.) review helped you see that Joel Hall is the place to go to work with amazing talented choreographers. Anyone would be more than pleased. :D happy dancing! read more

Love this dance studio. The teachers are caring and authentic and they accept you regardless of your skill level or past Dance experience.

My 2 1/2 year old started this summer taking the little feet class. The class usually started late or ended early. To top that off she didnt learn anything. I didnt expect her to become a prima ballerina but i wanted her to know some positions, some technical terms: 1st position, plie, etc. after lots of complaining the teacher seemed to get the hang of it and it got better. Unfortunately we had to miss a few classes and they did not have any make up classes that we could get too. I called and asked many times and two months later someone got back to me and said that she would allow us to make up 1 class in the current term. They usually dont do that, you have to make it up during the term you are enrolled for. Mind you, one of the classes that we had to make up was because they cancelled class. After lots of left messages someone finally got back to me and told me that they would reimburse the class that they cancelled. The other problem is that they seem to be very disorganized. I called for one of my make up classes, let them know via email that we would be coming. They got back to me and said no problem and then they cancelled the class and didnt bother to call me and let me know. I showed up and the front desk guy (who was very nice) apologized but my kid was very disappointed. The whole experience just sucked and I was very disappointed. read more

I love Missi Rheaux so so much. She is such a beautiful dancer and her ballet classes are so much fun and hard (in a good way) you need to take her class ASAP if you want to live your best life. read more

These teachers are outstanding and inventive and the studio's general vibe is professional/friendly. There are a wide variety of ages/body types and (sometimes) ability in each class and you are encouraged to work to the best of your ability. Joel Hall is a stunning and demanding teacher and William Gill is also exceptional. His class is challenging but fun--very high energy. Aimee Tye is a gentle but demanding and detail-oriented ballet teacher. read more

I adore this place! Even though I too miss their lovely and more convenient Andersonville location, I just can't find a substitute for them so I've stayed loyal to them since the Edgewater move. I have been taking jazz and hip hop classes here for the last 3 years. I love to dance and have taken classes on and off since I was in college, which makes me in between a total beginner and an advanced student. It's really hard to find a dance school with the right level and vibe for a student like me. Joel Hall is perfect. I love that it has the community atmosphere and the low-key friendliness of a community dance center, yet has classes that really do challenge your technique and work you hard. Lately I've been going to Billy Stevens's Monday night hip hop class. He goes fast (so I wouldn't recommend it for beginners), but it's an awesome class, I love his energy, style and choreography. I've also been to William Gill's hip hop class on Thursday and he is a wonderful teacher, very supportive and full of positive energy. Eric Ford's beginning jazz class gives you an excellent foundation in proper technique, though it moved a little too slowly for my taste. Rochelle Goff's beginning jazz class is tons of fun and high-energy, though perhaps a tad too easy if you have some experience taking jazz. Eric's style is more modern-influenced, while Rochelle's style is more hip hop-influenced. read more

I really like dancing here. And I think this is probably the only "safe zone" dance center in the city. The staff welcomes all people of any abilities and they are not too intimidating. Joel is sometimes at the studio doing random things but is never too busy to catch up with the students. I'm moving further south but will travel through a blizzard to take a 90 minute ballet class here. Kirby also teaches a very good hip hop class and actually taught me how to work on my short term memory and performance abilities. When he is not teaching however, and this is why there is one star missing, his subs usually tend to not be very good. I'm not sure if Joel Hall has hip hop instructors like Kirby but it's kind of sad that they don't from what I can tell. Joel is the pioneer of urban jazz... so in my opinion it seems only fitting that the studio (IN THAT NEIGHBORHOOD) should have a better hip hop program. read more

Love this place. I miss it very much. Best teachers there are Kirby Reed, Nancy Tenowitz, Joel hall and Betsey. They will work you. Go to these teachers. I havent found a studio like this in new york yet. read more