After several coerced 5-star reviews, the "business owner, Linnea" (not an owner of anything-just a 25-yr old teacher) writes a comment that Soho has been in business for 25+ years. Easy to verify this is an untruth. Maybe the owner needs to change all his websites that state it's been 25+ years, to jive with the statement Linnea wrote because it's been 16 yrs. Dancer22 S. has a right to be anonymous, just as one reviewer (A B.) apparently has the right to state her name as such, when she uploaded a student ID that says her name is Suzana M. *******Be very aware of the owner of this studio. Among bad practices such as putting down students in front of other students and staff and talking bad about staff to other staff, he has sexually harassed so many women that two students had to leave because they felt uncomfortable from his constant advances. During his private lessons he tells women to "Stick out your t**ts and move you're a*s." He made a comment about one of the students (E) that the reason why she couldn't turn was because her "t*ts were too big. Then, he said to a staff member, "Oh god! Student for sale! Do you see what I'm dealing with? Will somebody please take her off my hands?" He uses humiliation and insults to manipulate students in order to make an example of them. I was told he tells instructors that they need to humiliate students as well, because it refrains them from making complaints. He has also told the instructors to waste as much time as possible during a lesson so they don't have to actually teach them. He said that all he needs to do is ask a student "So, how are you?" Then, they will start talking about what's going on with them, and before you know it, the 45 minute lesson is over and he doesn't have to teach them. He uses students to pay for all the food at events and then takes credit for the cost. Then, he intimidates his students to work for him behind the counter for free, dealing with student's credit cards and personal information, and tells them that if they support the studio, they will do this for him. He calls women the b word quite frequently and is consistently making inappropriate homophobic jokes and comments about his predominantly gay staff members, even to go so far as referring to one teacher as a "french baguette", which is slang for fa**ot. He tells some students to pay him directly for their lessons, so he doesn't have to put it on the books and report his earnings to the IRS, and they do it. If they complain about anything, he will say they have bad energy and has in the past kicked out a student who was taking 5 private lessons from him a week because of his "bad energy." This is a clique environment that is uncomfortable to several students, and he supports that. His famous words are "Your feelings are important. Your feelings matter," and then he'll talk negatively about them behind their back, then tell the student he took care of the problem. This sick man was teaching hustle dance lessons to a 13 year old girl and told her to stop wearing super short shorts because "she is going to give an old man a heart attack." This man is disgusting to get turned on by a child. I would not want my child taking lessons from this man, or anywhere near him. Having a daughter of his own, I wonder how he would feel as a parent if an older man was staring at his little girl's behind and making inappropriate sexual comments. For that matter, how would he feel if a trusted dance teacher sexually harassed his daughter and made her so uncomfortable that she had to quit going to his studio? As Jim G. said in his review of the West Los Angeles studio when he brought his concerns to his attention, "Very weird little guy." This is a gross understatement. read more

I'm here to offer a fresh perspective on Soho Dance LA, diverging from the swathes of outdated or suspiciously internal-looking reviews. My goal? To shed light on what seems to be a deeply ingrained culture of rudeness and exclusion, particularly towards newcomers. From the moment I stepped through the doors, the vibe was unmistakably cold. A few students went beyond mere disinterest to outright rudeness, setting a tone that felt both unwelcoming and unnecessarily elitist. This wasn't just a peripheral issue; it seemed to be a systemic problem, emanating from the very top. The owner, who doubles as an instructor, embodies this unwelcoming culture through and through. Teaching on the dance floor, his approach was peculiar at best, marked by a condescending tone and a striking lack of empathy or encouragement. It's a style that, unfortunately, promotes a hierarchy where only the 'elite' or insiders seem to matter. The atmosphere reeks of elitism, with a majority of the participants carrying an air of superiority that's both uninviting and off-putting. It's hard not to feel like an outsider in a place that should celebrate the joy of dance and the community it can create. It's also worth noting that the glowing reviews, which seem disproportionately favorable given the experience I had, might not be as unbiased as they appear. There's a strong impression that these accolades could be coming from friends, family, or even the studio's internal circle, including perhaps a few genuinely talented dancers who are the exception rather than the rule. For anyone looking to rediscover their passion for dance or to step onto the dance floor for the first time, I implore you: look elsewhere. The negative culture fostered by Soho Dance LA could do more harm than good to your dancing journey. Thankfully, there are other studios nearby that offer a more positive, welcoming environment for dancers of all levels. Save your sanity, and give those places a chance instead. read more

I have been with Dance with Me Sherman Oaks for almost a year now. Since the first day I walked through the doors, I have always been treated with kindness and respect. The establishment is gorgeous, not just a white ballroom with mirrors on the wall. When you walk through the doors you know you have entered someplace special. The instructors are top notch and they know their business. I find myself in ahh watching them at times. Elena is a world class woman. She is also a World Champion at her craft, and one of the nicest women I have ever met. Her and Her Husband Rib make sure that everyone that walks through their doors is treated with the utmost care and respect. They go out of their way to make sure everyone is having a good time. On a personal note, When my father and best friend passed away a little while ago, I was lost. I had no family, and no true, loyal friends to speak of. I went to the opening of the this studio, and I was blown away. It wasn't long before I felt comfortable and happy again. Dance With Me Kind of bandaged my broken heart. I feel I have found a loving new family that has put the smile back on my face. So to that I say Thank you, To Elena, Rib, Artemi, Jonathan, and Adrienne. They are all top notch in this girls eyes. I love them all. With all this said, Everyone is always welcome. The price of lessons is comparable to all studios and you have bonuses of being around people that truly care about their students. The staff is not there just for a pay check. They care for the students. They teach you to dance in a very fun and warm atmosphere. If you enjoy dancing and really want to dance. This is the place to come. Come and join our close nit family. I am honored to be here at DWM Sherman Oaks. Love my DWM FAMILY Forever. read more

My first experience with Soho Dance La was actually through private lessons with owner Raul Santiago. I wanted to learn Latin Hustle, so I went in for a lesson. I was incredibly impressed with his work ethic, his ability as a teacher to help me understand how to do things properly, and his kind, funny personality. After a while of continuing private lessons with Raul Santiago and being incredibly impressed with his attitude and professionalism, I decided to try the group classes. I was very nervous but found students, staff, and teachers all warm and inviting. It's a fun friendly atmosphere with lots of laughing and joking. But above all the teaching and dancing is superb! You cannot find this level of expertise and level of dance patterns in other studio group classes, Believe me I've looked. The teachers are all professionals with extensive knowledge. Each has something different to add to your dance knowledge. I have now joined the monthly unlimited pass to both studios and it's the best choice I've made. I love getting so many options of classes and teachers. Not only have I made use of all group classes but I have continued to take private lessons with Raul Santiago. I also love taking private lessons with Yesenia Serratos. She has a youth program starting up that I can't wait to put my kids in!! She is not only an amazing teacher, but she is sensitive and kind which is perfect for children. If you are thinking of trying Soho dance LA you won't be disappointed!! read more

I have been a student at DWMSO since the Grand Opening a year ago... I can not stress enough how much dance and this studio has changed my life.... I am a Cancer Survivor and am facing my Cancer coming out of remission, I start Chemo again next month and the support I have with this wonderful dance family is incredible... I am dancing my heart out, in the best shape I have been in years since my Cancer... I continue to dance thru my Cancer with the wonderful support of my instructors and staff here at DWMSO.... You could not ask for a better group of people to learn from or just be around... I spend most my time just hanging out at the studio, dancing or just watching... they have become my second family and I am so blessed to have them in my corner... Dance has changed my life and keeps my sane and happy... Dare I say, it has saved my life in more ways than I can count... I can't imagine dancing anywhere else... I have grown so much because of these wonderful people... The best environment and the best skilled, talented and caring instructors I have ever met! You become family, learn to dance and achieve things you never thought possible.... If your looking for a place to dance, grow and enjoy life... this is the place to be! It is worth the investment! Xx read more

I have danced since I was 4 years old and I am in close contact with my old dance studio. When I moved to LA I was looking for a place to go and dance with people who were energetic, friendly, and welcoming. As a member of the dance community my whole life it was very important for me to connect with a group of people that made me feel good. I met Raul Santiago and Yesenia Serratos when they were teaching at Hacienda. They are such fabulous teachers that I now go to the studio owned by Raul Santiago called SoHo Dance LA. I went to a Salsa level 1 and Cha Cha shine class taught by Raul Santiago. In the class Raul paid close attention to how each student was doing and I really appreciate how he stopped multiple times to break down a step to help everyone feel comfortable. Raul Santiago is friendly, fun, and a knowledgeable teacher. Raul made everyone feel welcome and a part of SoHo Dance LA community of dancers. I highly recommend taking classes at SoHo Dance LA from Raul Santiago. read more

I've been going to LA Ballroom Dance studio for a little over three months. As someone who has always found the idea of dancing intimidating the studio has been a welcome discovery. Their instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about their craft but not in away that overwhelms new students. They are able to break their lessons down, in both private and group classes, to make the steps accessible for beginners. The support staff is equally flexible. They've found ways to make both scheduling and paying for lessons easy and flexible to my needs. Top marks all around. I have a private lesson scheduled for tonight. read more

Definitely more than just an ordinary dance studio... Whether you're a beginner or a pro (no matter how old you are), I'm pretty positive that this is the right and perfect place for you. Apart from having great dancers as instructors (Not to mention it being owned by Elena Grinenko), what I love the most about this studio is their professionalism... From planning your program to scheduling your classes, they sure are very organized and efficient! Go ahead and check them out. They have different packages which you could avail of as well as various weekly events where you are welcome to attend :) read more

I love Dance With Me Sherman Oaks!! I tend to be a very busy person with way to much on my plate but dancing with the instructors here and being in such a serene and peaceful environment has taught me a lot about myself as a person, in the sense of where my happiness lies. Despite my hectic schedules, I go out of my way to schedule my dance classes. I've had the pleasure of dancing with Jonathan. He is encouraging, fun, energetic and overall, amazing!!! Dance with me USA remains to be my home away from home. :) Thank you so much to the Dance With Me Family! read more

I have been taking classes here for a couple of months now, and I love it. The owners are wonderful, the studio environment is inviting and open, the instructors are skilled and kind, and my fellow students are friendly. I have prior dance experience, but zero ballroom/social dance experience and Jonathan Davis has expertly adjusted my private instruction to keep the challenge and enjoyment levels high and the frustration level low. I always look forward to coming to class. And the practice parties are super fun too. read more

LA Ballroom Dance Studio is the most accomodating dance studio around!! Not only are they extremely professional, but they lead all their actions with a heart of pure gold! Their staff is extremely personable and are always looking to see how best they can serve their clients. Not to mention they go above and beyond to ensure your utmost happiness!! You will leave LA Ballroom stress-free and excited to step back into this family-friendly community to learn the skill of dance all while having FUN! read more

This is my first time taking private lessons anywhere. I love to dance. Here at DWM Sherman Oaks they have fun group classes. They have great quality, professional instructors who really know what they're talking about. My key instructor is Sam Enriquez, who is super sweet & an awesome instructor. Everyone there is nice & friendly. At this studio I don't just learn about dance. I learn more about life, connecting and expanding. This studio is worth going to. I LOVE IT !!!! read more

Soho Dance LA has been a huge part of my life over the past two years. It's responsible for some of my most prized friendships, as well as the transformation of my body, and a major boost in my confidence. The instructors here are highly skilled and full of personality. There's no doubt youll walk away with valuable skills applicable both on and off the dance floor. Most people come for the lessons but ultimately stay for the community. Come see for yourself!!! read more

I love this studio! Everyone is so nice and down to earth. The classes are super specific and really have accelerated my learning, the instructors are so fun to learn from and are super knowledgeable. The community has been super supportive and I love going to the parties to get to know more people who share the same passion for dance as I do. The rates for all of the classes and everything are very good compared to other studios and I really appreciate that! read more

I came here for one of the practice parties where the dance teachers will grab you and teach you the ballroom dance for the song that is playing. It was such a blast that the next time I came here with my boyfriend and we signed up to take lessons to learn other dances. We always enjoy coming here they are friendly and make you feel like you are a part of their family. I suggest to come check it out and is always a good idea for couples and singles. read more

I decided to take ballroom privates and I am very happy with what I have learned and continue to learn. I am a professional dancer in the area but had never ventured into ballroom. I am so glad that I did and will continue to do so at LA Ballroom. The parking is convenient and the staff is very down to earth. This studio has a family vibe and creates a great atmosphere for ALL levels of dancers! Come check them out-- you won't regret it! read more

The Most Elegant Place, that holds the Most Stuck-Up Women, to attend a Social Dance Night..... Bring a Few Female Friends Dance, since the Sweet Honeys that Arrive, Dolled-Up & Pretty, will Only Dance with their Gurl Friends, Until the Dance Instructor is Free for Their turn... HEY Guys, Request Free Admission, these Snotty Ladies will Moan that there is No Enough Guys to SAY No to.... Oh, Wanted to Give NO Stars!! NDNluv ;) read more

My husband, Howard, and I have been taking lessons for over a year now and progressing really well. Our teacher, Jonathon, is excellent in instructing in well explained detail and even though we take these lessons seriously, we enjoy a lot of fun and laughter in the process. I feel so lucky in having found the perfect studio and dance has now become an important hobby in our lives. read more

LaBallroom is classy, welcoming, and fun - I love knowing that I will always leave with a smile. The teachers are so helpful, and they always make the hard steps easy to understand. The front desk is amazing with answering any questions, and the owners really care about the students. I've been taking group classes there for two years, and I won't be stopping any time soon! read more