Michael is probably the best tap dance teacher I've ever had in my 20+ years of dancing. He takes…read moreextra time to break down steps, and his choreography is always appropriately challenging. I learn something new every time I take his class, and even on the days when I find his choreography to be especially challenging, I always leave feeling a sense of accomplishment (instead of feeling defeated, as I've often felt after taking classes at other dance studios in the area). The rhythms he introduces are perfect for breaking away from the crippling symmetry and predictability of Broadway tap and helping me to transition from a performer into a percussive musician. There are only three small nit-picky things that I would change about classes at this studio. 1. I wish there were more emphasis on improvisation. I've taken classes at other local studios where they reserve the last 15 minutes of class for an improv circle. This serves as a cool-down, as well as gives dancers a chance to practice composing rhythms on the fly and being/staying in sync with their fellow dancers while performing. It's an incredibly valuable and often under-rehearsed skill. 2. The main studio floor is in desperate need of an upgrade. It is crumbling and uneven, which is a disheartening contrast to how great the classes are. It's also a trip hazard (don't ask me how I know) and the studio should definitely make upgrading it a priority. It's not enough for me to knock off a star because the classes are just that good, but it would definitely make the class experience that much better. 3. Adult/Teen classes should be limited to students who meet the criteria of the aforementioned demographics. There's something discomfiting about taking classes with small children, no matter how "good" or proficient they are at the craft... especially when they ask a ton of questions, won't keep their feet still, or constantly hold up class so they can tie their shoes. Call me a grinch, but I take my adult time and adult spaces very seriously (especially since classes here are the most expensive in the area!) I mean, that's why they call them Adult (and teen) classes... right?

I used to be a student here many years ago. My teacher was Ms. Henry. Not sure if she is still…read morethere. Anyway I had a very good experience. Great for all levels. Not intimidating.

Great dance studio located in Brookland area, in NE DC across from the Brookland/Catholic…read moreUniversity Metro Station. Great space for rehearsal, performances, dance socials, and plenty of mirrors. Good size bathrooms too. Plenty of large open windows so lighting is good. Came here recently for a Cuban dance social hosted by DC Casineros. Highly recommend this dance location.

Incredibly beautiful moving and inspiring show tonight- each dancer unique and yet a great ensembleread more

I love this community of dancers! That's what is so awesome about it. The people here are good…read morepeople that care about each other, they bring in amazing guests for workshops, they offer virtual classes too! I have also noticed that you will learn about the history and culture on the dance style, and it's very thorough. That is so important because it gives you more understanding and context of where the movement comes from and how it was used.

I'm blown away by the the classes and hospitality The…read morequality and devotion of the teachers amazes me.

I have been taking classes here for over 12 years. Sahara has classes from beginner all the way to…read moreadvanced, with wonderful dance companies you can join if you are interested in performing, as well as weekend workshops and special events. Classes are available in person and some are also available online if you're unable to travel to the studio. The teachers are very knowledgeable about Middle Eastern dance, with a focus on Egyptian raqs sharqi, as well as Lebanese dance, and American fusion styles. Students of all ages, body types, with or without prior dance experience are welcome. This is a very supportive community and I have made many friends here! Highly recommend!

I've been a student here for about five years now. The Sahara Dance community is so inclusive,…read moresupportive, and joyful! I've made lifelong friends here from all walks of life. All (and I mean ALL backgrounds, body types, gender identities, even disabled dancers like myself are accommodated here) are welcome to join and learn not only bellydance technique and choreography, but also important cultural context, music, and even occasional other styles of dance here--not just Egyptian raqs sharqi but other North African/Central Asian styles, Latin fusion, even Bollywood style! There are classes available in person, online, and hybrid for all levels from "never moved my hips in my life" all the way to budding professional dancer, and every teacher I've had over the years has demonstrated their expertise and knowledge, and been very attentive to each student every week, giving individual feedback and getting to know us and our unique styles--even the ones joining in over Zoom. There are endless performance opportunities for all levels as well, from large-scale productions like the annual Under a Desert Moon show to smaller haflas held in the studio, as well as chances to perform at community events in the DC area such as Tenley Art All Night and other cultural festivals. If you've ever been even a little bit interested in bellydance, come check it out!

My son has been in violin with DCYOP since Kindergarten. He is now in 2nd grade and we have taken…read morepart in both summer camp and school year lessons. Overall, he has really enjoyed it. Great staff, talented teachers and an opportunity to learn and perform!

Amazing group of people! Very impressive and professional. came to see the kids play on a saturday…read moreand was blown away, the children were so good and happy. The staff is one of the best I have met in the DC area non-profits. 10 out of 10!

The Russell School of Ballet is an Excellent dance school with a wonderful supportive culture for…read moreall ages.

Truly a wonderful place to dance! Kind and knowledgeable instructors, a family-like atmosphere, and…read morebeautiful shows!

This is THE place to take adult ballet classes in the DMV. The teachers and class structure are…read moreexcellent, and there's a variety of levels and times to choose from. The studio is gorgeous too!

Three beautiful, bright, and airy dance studios on the second floor, in the same building as Cactus…read moreCantina, Raku, Solidcore and Pure Barre (not the Yelp address). I've been taking adult open classes here for about a year and find that most evening and weekend classes tend to be crowded, so try a weekday daytime class if you can. There's street parking on Wisconsin Ave and side streets or discounted parking in the Giant Foods garage (remember to get your parking validation from the receptionist). While the faculty each have their own styles, all the ones I've taken from are top-notch instructors who were former (or are currently) professional ballet company dancers. I think I've finally figured out the five levels for adult classes, which are not as they're labeled, IMO: - Beginning 1. For dancers in their first couple years of ballet study, or who are rehabbing after not dancing for 1+ years. The teacher will explain ballet terminology. - Beginning 2. Not actually for beginners. Full barre and center combinations. - Advanced beginning. If tombe-pas de bourree-glissade-saut de chat is in your muscle memory. - Intermediate I. Dancers are doing double-plus pirouettes. Petite allegro can have jumps with beats. Combos are more intricate, challenging... and FUN! - Intermediate II. You'll see some dancers en pointe, and pros occasionally drop in. The class moves fast, where the teacher doesn't even have to fully demonstrate the combo yet everyone knows what they're doing. Fouette turns. If you're on the fence about which level to attend, I recommend trying the safer/lower level first, then moving up as you become comfortable. Overall, TWSB is a wonderful place to take ballet class in the DMV area!

I would caution other parents to carefully review Impact Dance's policies before enrolling…read more My experience with their trial and cancellation policies was disappointing and felt misleading. I enrolled my child in two back-to-back classes for $740 under the impression--based on how the trial was advertised--that we could cancel after the first two weeks if it wasn't a good fit. Unfortunately, the instruction during those initial classes was minimal, and my child felt uncomfortable enough that she didn't want to continue. When I requested a refund after the second class, I was told it wasn't possible because I had signed the contract prior to week one, even though I was not informed that payment and signing could be delayed until after the trial period. This key detail was never made clear at the time of enrollment. Instead of a refund, I was offered a store credit. I explained I wouldn't be able to use it until fall 2025, and at the time, they verbally agreed this would be acceptable. However, when I recently tried to register for fall or winter classes, I was told the credit had expired--and I was only being offered half of the original amount. In short, the policies feel overly rigid and not clearly communicated, and the follow-through on verbal agreements has been inconsistent. I hope the studio reconsiders how it handles these situations in the future.

Impact has provided the most incredible experience for my daughters! They have grown so much as…read moredancers and as people from the instructors expertise, leadership and love! It is such a warm and wonderful community that it has become my daughter's second home! I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a dance studio!