The Dance Brigade's Dance Mission Theater
Categories: Performing Arts, Gyms, Trainers [Edit]
Neighborhood: Mission3316 24th Street
(between Mission St & Osage St)
San Francisco, CA 94110 (415) 826-4441
- Good for Kids: Yes
39 reviews
Neighborhood: Marina/Cow Hollow
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52 Reviews for The Dance Brigade's Dance Mission Theater
Came here with a couple friends the other day for Allan's hip hop dance class. It was definitely a lot of fun, and he has a great sense of humor. His hip hop dance style allows for a lot of freestyle.
My only gripe is that the studios are freaking hot. They could use a few more fans in there!
I started taking Hip hop there almost 4 years ago- first with Allan (and he makes everyone LAUGH) then switched over to David's class. All I can say now that I moved out to Chicago a month ago is how I miss this GREAT place of like minded people!!!!!! David was the man and ALWAYS made it such a invigorating and up lifting 90 mins every time. And he switched up his styles every other weak keeping us on our toes- wanting more.
For those that live there- take advantage of the GREAT $$$$- as classes out this way cost $5-10 more and I have yet to find the another match.
So I've got rhythm. Mad rhythm. Seriously. I've taken dance classes off and on since I was around 8, not to mention all of the musicals and chorus lines I've been in. Funny thing is, apparently with hip hop dancing, rhythm is not really enough. You've got to have soul. And apparently I have no soul. :(
I mean, I have a lot of other things going for me. I mean, rhythm doesn't hurt. And I've got some badunk. So, like that helps, having something to shake. But so does everyone else at Dance Mission. Seriously. The people in Allan Frias's beginning hip hop class mean business. There are people in there that I feel like must be total sandbaggers I mean honestly! MOVE UP TO THE NEXT LEVEL YOU'RE MAKING ME LOOK BAD.
But the best part of the class is the spirit of it. Which isn't to downplay how awesome it is in every other way. Like how awesome a workout it is. The best workout of my life, to be specific. And the moves are sick (well, they look sick when other people in the class do them....)
But those facts STILL pale in comparison to my being able to go in there and try to jazz-hands my way through popping and locking and STILL not feel embarrassed (and believe me, despite my bravado, I HATE to look stupid in front of other people.) It's an awesome testament to both Allan's teaching and the no-judgments vibe of the people there to get down. And GOD Allan is so funny - I can't think of many times when I've enjoyed having someone call me a "trick" or refer so frequently to my "titties" and "ass." Even being one of the dorkiest people in the class, it's impossible to not want to just bust out and I STILL END UP FEELING HELLA SEXY AFTERWARDS! How many times do you get to be the worst at something and STILL walk out feeling like you're the hottest shit on two legs? The power of titties and ass I guess, diyaaaaaamn.
At $12 for a drop in and $44 for a four-class pass, this 1.5 hour workout is a freaking steal, and conveniently located by the 24th and Mission BART station.
And one day I'm going to stomp that yard. Mark my words.
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this was a great reunion for me and dancing. i've been a trained dancer for years going through school. as i got older, i didn't dance as much do to other priorities.
i took allen's saturday hip-hop class and it was AMAZING! so much fun. challenging and exciting. i loved it! couldn't have been a better experience. well except for one thing, i happened to go on the freaken hottest day EVER! wear light and breathable clothing. no valour anything or you'll die of heat stroke. also be prepared to dance your ass off. Allen is a great choreographer with a killer sense of humor. makes the class fun and not intimidating. love love loved it!
Mirror mirror on the wall, who's the whitest girl of all?
When I took Allan Frias' beginner hip-hop class at Dance Mission, I discovered that it was me. Okay, okay, to be fair, it wasn't the moves that thwarted my progress. I do, in fact, have some junk in my trunk, which I have been known to shake on occasion.
Aaahhh yeaaahhhh.
To start the class, a woman came in to warm us up with some hip shakin', arm stretchin', and shoulder rollin'. Totally my speed. I was feeling smooth and sexy and talented.
Enter Allan. He started off slowly for the 'hop impaired among us. It quickly became clear that he is not only hilarious and a fabulous teacher, but also a dance genius. Once he was in his choreography trance, there was no stopping him, and his pace increased at an alarming rate.
He added move upon move, each one more rapid, and I found myself frantically shaking body parts I hadn't used in years in an effort to keep up. Eventually, others in the class assumed I was having a seizure and called an ambulance. When the paramedics came, I was grateful because my heart rate had climbed well above the normal range and I gasped for air, my broken body only a shell of what it had been previously.
Okay. That last part might be embellished a little. But, today I can barely walk, and that is the truth.
It's a great cardio workout for the price of the $12 drop-in fee. You can use the classes at Dance Mission to change up your boring workout routine or just go shake your thang for fun. Easily accessible via many bus lines and BART. Class gets full, so get there early.
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I'm a regular at ODC, but I've taken a few classes here. The two are completely different places, but both seem to have excellent and reasonably priced classes which is the main thing.
I really like the feel of this place - tall ceilings, windows, huge studio (at least the one I've been in - love it when there's an area to put your crap out of the way so people at the edge of the studio don't trip over your stuff), and all round a great place to get your dance-on. Would like to try out some of the other classes.
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What, you dance?
Hells to the yes I dance...my favorite move is reminiscent of Janet Jackson's "wardrobe malfunction" with Justin Timberlake....oh wait, sorry, that was a dream.
So yeah maybe I need a little work on my moves...or maybe I just want to get a good work out. And Alan Frias' is definitely good for that.
The man can obviously dance (and was even on the first season of So You Think You Can Dance) and creates intricate routines that really make you work hard. You sweat your ass off in part by the quickness of tempo/moves and in part from the amount of people crammed into the room. Which is my main beef about this place. There doesn't seem to be a cap on admission. This is a class anyone can drop in on (for the deal of $12/class) but it gets to the point of where you can barely dance because you're running into other people. It's also frustrating when there are so many people that you can't see the teacher showing the moves.
The other annoying part of it is that his dance troupe dancers are always up front. Even when he asks for lines to switch (to allow people in back to be closer) they just move from one side to the other. I'm assuming this is so people can watch them to try and learn the moves. But they're learning the moves at the same time the rest of the class is - so watching them isn't that helpful for me. I think if they want to be helpful, they should move around the room and allow more people to be up front.
So yeah, Allan gets 5 stars as far as I'm concerned - for his talent, his choice of music, and his teaching style. But the theater fails in the way it's managed. As much as I've enjoyed going to these classes, I'm not 100% sure I want to continue if the class continues to be packed to the gills. Hopefully they'll add another Saturday class or move the class to the bigger room.
FYI, this theater offers a ton of different types of classes and obviously this review is only for one - I would definitely check out other classes because the price cannot be beat!!
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Dance Mission is the greatest dance school for children. The staff is wonderful and the classes are relaxed while still offering instruction, socialization, and a chance to have fun and dance. The youth program offers classes for kidlets from 3 years old and up and the biannual performances are split, so that the older children have a more professional feeling show and the toddlers and small children have a very stress-free performance in the Dance Mission Theatre itself. My daughter has taken Creative Movement for over 2 years now and will be moving up into Modern Ballet in the Fall. She is excited to be going into "big girl classes" (she is 5), but sad to leave her earlier teachers behind.
When we were looking into dance classes when she was younger, I looked into a few places that felt like the ballet classes of my youth -- filled with snobby parents pushing their toddlers too hard, showing off their children's overpriced dance clothing, and teachers who expected perfection from teeny children. At Dance Mission, we found only adorable kids wanting to dance and have fun and teachers and administrators who wanted to provide that.
I haven't learned any new moves since MC Hammer and Vanilla Ice days (good times and killer moves not mentioning the pants and boots!) so I took some hip hop classes at the Mission Theatre. I enjoyed Mikaya's classes although the moves are more like "America's Best Dance Band" than moves you could actually use at a club. Nonetheless I had lots of fun and got a good cardio workout out of it. I have also taken some salsa with Ramon and that was fun too. It's not as challenging as hip hop in my opinion but still is tons of fun. You can either bring a dance partner or borrow one at the class (it's easier than one can imagine).
The crowd is mostly young kids from college for hip hop and slightly older for salsa. The vibe is very raw, artistic and collegiate. They offer variety of dances and you can check that out on their website.
I bought a book of tickets for $100 (package of 10) but didn't get to use all of it (it expires after a couple of months). If you just want to drop in it's $12.
FYI, ODC Dance Studio offers similar classes and their facilities are nicer, but they both have their distinct charms.
I love the salsa classes here! It's right out of a somewhat corny-but-awesome dance movie...people hanging in the halls dancing...no biggie. Monday nights with Ramon is great. The first part is a step-by-step warm up. If you're a real beginner this part is helpful. Then we learn a few moves and practice practice practice. The classes vary depending on the level of the students and the girl:guy ratio. We also switch partners frequently, so you don't have to come with anyone. My favorite is that he teaches in Spanglish...takes me back to when I first took classes in Havana! You'll stay for the dancing, culture, and work out!
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I've been taking hip hop class at this studio for a few months now and love it - this studio is conveniently located right across from 24th St MIssion and I always get an intense workout!
Here's my rundown on the classes I've taken at Dance Mission:
Allen Frias' Hip Hop class (Saturday 12:30 pm, Monday 6:30 pm, Tuesday 6:30 pm). .Allen is a talented choreographer and has a loyal group of followers / groupies to show for it. As a newbie of sorts, I can tell that class members have been taking for him for a while and know each other well...at times the vibe can seem a bit cliquish / diva-ish.
Nevertheless, Allen always takes the time to answer questions about the steps and I really learn a lot in his class. His routines are intricate, "hella quick" (as he likes to say), and get you shaking your booty in no time! Plus...for those of you exhibitionists out there, he almost always has the Tuesday night class taped and put up on You Tube.
If you're trying him out for the first time, I would recommend the Saturday 12:30 class, it's more low key and the routine tends to be a little bit easier to pick up...
David Shrag's Hip Hop class (Wednesday's at 6:30 pm) Although I enjoy Allen's class and he is the quote-un-quote headliner of the studio, David's is my favorite. He is down to earth and goes out of his way to make students of all levels feel welcome in his class.
David's routines are a bit easier to pick up (though they provide every bit as good of a workout) and he usually does them two weeks in a row so that you have a little more time to get them in your body and really rock it out.
As a non-professional dancer, I find David's class highly enjoyable and would recommend it to anyone wanting to try out Dance Mission Studio...after a tough day at work, I can really let loose and have fun in his class - and feel sexy as well!
Allan Frias' hip-hop classes at Dance Mission are great -- the best workout ever! I am so out of shape since I moved away from SF and wasn't able to attend. Allan truly works it out. His routines will keep you on your toes!
I take a lot of dance classes in this fair city. I have been around the dance-school block, so to speak, and Dance Mission never fails to impress me.
The studio is in a great location next to 24th St. BART. The variety of classes is wonderful, the price standard and the instructors are talented and devoted to their craft.
Classes I have taken are: Afro-Brazilian with Dandha (mixed level), Beg. Samba with Silvana Sousa, Beg. Hip-Hop with David Schrag, and Beg/Int Hip-Hop with Allan Frias.
Regularly, I take David's hip hop because its a great mix of workout and choreography, and he doesn't move too fast for those of us still working on our "gangsta lean" after years of being told to stand straight up in ballet class. Yeah, and the music is always fun, too. I used to take Dandha's Afro-Brazilian class, which I loved, but a scheduling conflict has made it impossible to get back to it.
I definitely recommend Dance Mission for dancers in any discipline/level of experience.
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Allan Frias, enough said. I've been searching the Bay Area for SO long for awesome choreography and I've finally found it.
Not only do his moves rock, but so does his style and personality. Going to his classes is one of the most enjoyable things I've ever participated in. The levels amongst the class range from beginner to advanced, so it's difficult to really feel out of place.
The people are friendly, drop in fee is $12 and $10 for 10 classes. It's a wonderful way to get your sexy on, burn those calories and feel like you belong at an Usher tour audition.
without rival. i was sure that when I moved to New York, there would be tons of great dance. step aside san francisco, said i. and of course, new york has a lot going for it. but no single dance studio i've found comes anywhere close to the range and quality offered by Dance Mission. Obviously, as you already know, I'm totally addicted to Sidney Weaverling's Salsa Workout classes, she is a sexy godess, (and you'll feel like one too) but this is only the beginning. The samba classes are crack, and the salsa rueda I dropped in on may have been the sexiest dance class I've ever been at. (the teacher... oh my god...) anyway, if you live in this city, don't take Dance Mission for granted. this place is world class!
I've really enjoyed taking classes here when I've had the opportunity. They are reasonably priced and there are so many classes it's hard to chose which ones to take. I wish they had Sunday classes since I have free time then... I miss some classes that I love because they are only offered once a week. I love the Afro-Brazilian dance class w/Danda!
Flubby-folks-looking-to-get-in-shape...let it be known:
Treadmills are NOT inspiring.
Neither are stationary bikes.
Or a stairmaster.
Or even those trendy elyptical things.
Even yoga and spinning classes are getting old.
Alan Frias's hip hop class will make you SWEAT and look SEXY, even when you're just kind of faking your way through his very fast booty-shakin' routines. Plus, his sometimes R-rated humor (slide my hand across my WhAt?!?) makes your time there laugh-out-loud awesome.
Watch out for the groupies who stay close to the front and check themselves out continuously in the mirror. They're suposedly there to "model" the moves (I will admit, they kick a lot of ass at what they do), but you're better off asking the folks around you or Alan directly for help, most of the girls are in high school and have not yet realized that no one is judging their hair. Or outfit. Or general coolness. Except maybe me. Mwahahahaha...
AND...if you're a beginner, start off slow in Micaya or Dave's class and just know that you WILL get better. Keep telling yourself that folks there have been attending religiously for years and you'll feel better. I'm 92% sure thats true, I asked around ;)
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I'll let you in on a secret: I'm a stud. Seriously, I am quite awesome in soooo many ways it isn't even funny. Go ahead, laugh. You may be thinking to yourself - "What type of freak goes around writing Yelp reviews that openly state 'I'm a stud'." Clearly - only two types of men: 1) those really creepy dudes who think they are studly AND 2) men very secure in their studliness (who are in fact studly). I fall in to the second category.
With all of that said, if you saw me tripping over my own feet, sweating buckets of perspiration, and inappropriately trying to fit a rock-step into my salsa - you'd totally be of the opinion that I fit into the "really creepy" category. Given the circumstances, you'd be forgiven for being such a poor judge of character.
The cuban style salsa taught here on Monday evening (or at least yesterday's class) involves dancing in a circle in which you switch partners quite regularly. The dancers are split into followers and leaders. I refused to let my girlfriend, who is a far better dancer than I, take the lead because it would have been too hard for my male ego.
I knew things were off to a bad start when I couldn't even get the basic footwork figured out at the beginning. As we watched ourselves in the mirror I couldn't help but notice that my girlfriend looked terribly embarassed for me. Her friends flashed sheepish concerned looks in my direction. In fact, her friend, in an attempt to solve the situation, helpfully whispered suggestions in my direction (thanks Katie!). Sadly, by the time I had that figured out, the rest of the class had moved on to mixing tricks into their dancing. It was clear I was in waaay over my head. Oh, and by the way, by adding tricks in that were waaay over my head - I'm only referring to stomping their feet on the 7th beat (or was it the 8th beat) or clapping their hands - not rocket science, but still too much for me.
I confess to you reader - I was THAT guy. The guy clapping his hands seconds after everyone else. Tripping on his feet everytime I had to try to turn to face the circle. Oh, and god forgive me for the damage I did to that one girl's foot when I tried to stomp too hard and on the wrong beat (sorry about that - just send me the medical bill!).
Indeed, my hyper-inflated ego took a hell of a beating when I realized that I was at least one of the two guys that probably inspired thoughts like, "Oh crap, this guy again!" whenever one of the followers had to dance with me. I will acknowledge, at least in the realm of salsa, I am a terrible lead and I get lost (and therefore confused) very very easily. That is to say: I am not a stud in this arena.
Nonetheless, I'll let none of this deter me! I'll be practicing at home and I'll be back - and when I am - get ready Dance Mission Theater - I'll be bringing sexy back!!! I'm going to stud your fucking pants off!!!!
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An intimate theater on the 2nd floor where arial dance, hip hop, modern, ballet and other styles of dance are performed.
Note: no elevator, only staircase.
It gets warm in here.
Drink water. Sit close.
You can here breathing in the wings.
Murmuring behind you.
Footsteps out in the hallway.
Crackling of light as the show begins.
You can touch the musician as he plays, and watches the stage, following every step of the dancer.
It is a truly warm theater, a joyous experience as a dancer and audience member.
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I've only gone here strictly because of Alan Frias's Beginning hip-hop class. As most of the other reviews have stated, Alan was third on the first season of "So You think You Can Dance".
Alan's class is amazing. The beauty behind his style is it doesn't matter what body type you have, his moves are made for anyone. Don't believe me? you can youtube his classes, just do a search on his name.
I will say though, that if you don't have any dancing experience, it can be very difficult to pick up. In fact, I know a lot of beginners may think his class is more of an intermediate type class. However if you can shelve your ego aside and just have fun, this is a great class. Alan is very engaging and makes the class fun with his humor. The regulars that attend are also very welcoming, all you need to do is talk to them.
The studio itself has a nostalgic feel to it and some of it is kind of run down. It does get very hot in here, but mostly due to the class size. There's two bathrooms, however it's single occupancy for the guys, and if you need it, you may have to wait a while as most people use it to change.
It's $12 for drop ins, and $40 for a 4-class pass.
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Located right at the heart of the mission, this place is oozing with culture and diversity.
I was going through old dance videos of mine last week and decided that it's been too long since I last danced. I decided to go online and search for good dance schools in the city. And let me tell you this--Dance Mission Theater DID NOT disappoint.
Right on the corner of 24th and Mission, the location's convenience is unbeatable. Dance Mission Theater offers a wide range of dances--from hip hop, to ballet, and salsa.
As I walked into the theater, I thought to myself, "This is exactly what a dance studio should look like." The studio had a good amount of floor space, mirrors all around, a couple of barres and huge windows that overlooks the area. It's a bit rough around the edges, but this is exactly what gives the place a kind of intimate feeling. Sort of like the setting in 'Honey', if you've ever seen the movie.
After i took the salsa class, I sort of wanted to kick myself thinking, "Why didn't I think of doing this before?" For $12/drop in class, you not only get dance classes and a workout, you get to meet a lot of really fun and interesting people as well!
So, if you're looking for a good place to do some serious dancing, Dance Mission Theater is the place to be. :-)
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Being the tall, gangly white man that I am, my introduction into the world of hip-hop dance classes could not have happened at a better place. I tried Allen Frias's beginner class once and was a little overwhelmed, but David Schrag's beginner class is easy enough that even a true novice can handle it, yet sophisticated enough that you'll still feel like a rockstar by the time class is over. He's a a great teacher in terms of explaining routines well and encouraging beginners in a way that is truly reassuring and friendly.
Yeah, the place gets kinda hot sometimes, but there's always time to grab water mid-class. And yeah, the classrooms kind of run into each other, but I consider that part of the charm of the place, and after five minutes you won't notice much of anything besides your bad self tearing up the dance floor anyway.
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Your MISSION if you choose to accept it, is to DANCE. (cue 007 music).
Location of your assignment: DANCE MISSION.
Necessary Supplies: $12 per drop-in class, Water bottle.
Contacts: David Schrag will be your go to guy as his beginner hip hop class is truly a beginner class. He throws some old school moves in there which is great but be forewarned, you will sweat buckets.
Micaya will win you over with her positive energy and huge love for her students. Her beginner hip hop class goes at a quicker pace than David's but is also loads of fun. Her intermediate class is tough (if you can handle it, bring your knee pads).
Allan's "beginner" hip hop class is fun as well but should really be labeled as an intermediate class. It is more challenging than the other 2 beginner classes.
Enemies: Boredom and Your Fat Pants. Also, the Dance Mission building. It is small, rundown and you can hear other classes going on at the same time. This may distract you from your mission but stay the course.
Good luck!
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As it is located amidst the mission, the crowd that frequents it is as diverse as the neighborhood. People of all ages and a good variety of dance genres to choose from.
I take hip hop. David teaches a good beg/int class. I like it a lot, mainly because he's a good teacher and the choreography is put together in a way that is encouraging for people who don't have a dancing background. It's also fun! He always picks cool songs too. Alan also teaches a good beg/int class, although it's a lot more fast paced than David's. Both instructors are funny and nice, so if you're interested I recommend both.
Go. Challenge yourself. Even if you don't dance, sit in and watch a class/performance. Dancing's good for the soul.
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I totally wanted to be Paula Abdul when I was a kid. But my parents didn't have time to take me to dance class. And that's my sob story. I tried to make up for it in college by dancing hiphop in some shows. It was fun, so I thought I'd try it again by taking Allan's hiphop class at Dance Mission.
At first, I was scared that I was out of my league. Allan uses the same basic moves in his choreography so after the first few classes, it seemed to get easier. Now I feel much more comfortable (even though I don't always get it right).
A couple notes for newbies:
1) It's crowded. Allan's class is popular so be prepared to dance in tight quarters. I've tried Mon and Tues night classes and think Tues nights are less crowded.
2) Skill levels run the gamut. There are advanced dancers who just like to take Allan's class and then there are beginners who lack rhythm but deserve an A for effort. But there are so many people, it doesn't really matter what level you are since nobody's watching.
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Yeah, so what can I add-on what hasn't already been mentioned? I will re-iterate that it can be a bit daunting for anyone who's an absolute beginner in ANY of the categories (Salsa, Hip-Hop, Modern), but they have such a fantastic variety of instructors at Dance Mission that you'll most likely find one to suit your style.
And here's a True Confession: as a guy, you couldn't have PAID me to take a dance class 10 years ago. Dance? Howdya keep score? Who gets the in-bound pass? There seemed to be no "utilitarian" reason to ever take a dance class.
But while I was dropping off my daughter at a class (ALL the kids classes are superb, BTW) nigh on 6 years ago, I peeked in to watch Allan Frias's Hip Hop class. Needless to say, I was mesmerized at the perfect synchronicity and the pure joy erupting from the room. I then went to check out the tap class, and I knew right then I'd found a new niche. Totally cool urban beats, almost Savion Glover-style.
Long story short, I've taken a little of everything here and I can't say enough about this place. And if that weren't enough, they put on awesome showcases/performances of all types here.
My only suggestion: If they'd start accepting credit cards, they'd get 5 stars...
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This studio has had a number of reincarnations. I am glad that it is still deeply rooted in the community through the arts. I took Sidney's Salsa workout. She kicked my ass....non-stop dancing for 2hrs straight. She even ^5 me afterwards for stamina.
No wood suspension floors here. The floors are marley, so be sure to wear the appropriate shoes that won't stick when you turn, and your knees go one way and your body the other.
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Have you ever seen the movie "White Girls Can't Dance?" Well, I star in it. Actually, I can dance...ballet, grinding privates in the back of dimly lit bars, you see what I mean. However, I can't hip-hop. I severely lack the "hip" and my "hop" is, well, quite sub par. However, I've found a place where I can get in touch with my inner J.Lo music video dancer and I'm totally in love. David's beginning class on Wednesdays @ 6:30 is fantastic. It's an incredible workout (mega sweat fest) and you won't feel shy or uncomfortable about you lack of coordination. It's really just a great place to shake your booty, have fun, and work on your moves for the next "So You Think You Can Dance" audition.
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Elena S. managed to convince me to check out this place yesterday, so I did. I must say, of all the dance studios I've been to, this is what I expect a dance studio to look like.
With three different rooms, there are always 3 classes going on at anytime. From young kids to older adults, this place caters to all ages and dancing styles.
The beginner/intermediate salsa class with Ramon was quite intense. Most classes I've taken place more emphasis on partnering while this class places a heavy emphasis on free-styling and dancing on your own in pairs.
I definitely got my work out in last night as we just kept on going and going - no time for breaks. And yes, as Elena pointed out, counting on 3's was a little different for me as well, but I picked it up.
There were about 18 or so people in the class (mostly 20 & 30-somethings) and there was plenty of room (unlike other smaller dance studios I've been to). With a huge mirror running against the front of the class, it makes it easier to look at oneself instead of everyone cramming in trying to catch a sliver of themselves in the mirror.
All in all, this was a great class. I'll dress more casually next time as I came straight from work and I got a little too warm in my work clothes.
The salsa classes are ongoing and $12/drop-in. With class cards (valid for 3 months) you can pre-pay 4 classes - $44 or 10 classes - $100.
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For more salsa recommendations:
http://www.yelp.com/li...
For more salsa info:
http://www.facebook.co...
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I love this place and the location.... its right across the bart station, you have a whole in the wall bar across the street if you wanted to possibly take a shot before taking a dance class and afterwards, there are several places to grab food in every direction... Dance Mission Theater has great instructors (at least in my experience) and all seem to be very friendly. I've taken Salsa and Hip Hop so far and had enjoyed each class.... they offer a frequent class card where you can save a little more money by purchasing multiple classes at once. Good idea.... I'll have to think about another dance class one of these days.. .but for you Bay area folks that are thinking about dance classes, I would highly recommend this place as it offers so many types of dance classes and also for children.
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I took my first beginning hip hop class here last night. The place is this old looking building and the class was taught in a where house looking room that had bleachers in it, high ceilings, and mirrors on the wall, it had a very urban feeling to it which was great for setting the scene for a hip hop class. It actually kind of reminded me of the movies "flash dance" or "Save the Last Dance" with Julia Styles. The teacher was great too.
The class was great exercise, and the moves are challenging with out being too hard. The class appeals to all levels because the moves are pretty simple, so if you are new at it, you can follow along, and if you are a seasoned hip hop dancer, you can add a lot of your own style to the dance. The class is an hour and a half long and it is definitely a great workout.
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Whenever I tell people that I've taken hip hop classes, they probably imagine me dancing along with J.Lo, Blake, Jersey, and Kenny in Dancelife. Unfortunately, no matter how many classes I go to, I can't quite get that hip hop attitude. Even so, I have fun and get a good workout in. My favorite class here is David Schrag's hip hop class. He is a fun, energetic teacher who makes you feel like even if you can't pop along with the best of them, it really ok.
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I'm sure this is a great place to learn how to dance....if you already know how to dance. For me, a total novice, it wasn't so good. Suspecting that my lack of experience might hinder me, even in the "beginners" class, I called in advance to make sure that the hip hop class taught by Allan Frias would be suitable for me. After all, I wasn't looking to waste my time or make a total fool of myself. What follows is an approxmiate account of that call, in the obligatory "Me:" "Her:" format.
Me: Hi, I'm interested in your beginning hip hop dance class, but I'm really and truly a beginner, that is, I have no experience whatsoever and I'm afraid I'll make an ass of myself in front of the class. Do you think this class would be suitable for me, a total novice?
Her: You'll be fine.
So I went to the class. I made it through the warmup like a champ, which gave me a little confidence boost, but unfortunately when the actual dancing started, I was lost almost immediately. I was just getting the hang of the first 8 counts, but Allan had already moved onto the middle of the routine and showed no signs of slowing down. By the time he'd gone through the whole routine, I'd picked up only a couple of sections and basically ad-libbed the parts in the middle that I missed. I looked around the room for signs that others were struggling, but I instead I saw a room full of dancers flowing flawlessly through the routine. Naturally.
As if I didn't feel silly enough, Allan would mutter in a dissaproving tone, "Oh no, girrrrrrl..." each time he came to the back of the room to change the music. I was sure that "girrrrl" was me, but it's possible that I was just being overly sensitive.
Based on the other reviews, I'm sure this is a really good dance studio. And I will say that the people at the desk were very friendly and everyone else looked like they were having fun. But just beware, if you're looking true beginner's class, this may not be what you're hoping to find.
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Great for drop-in classes ($12). Parking is pretty tough, but with a bit of luck you can land a 1-hour meter-free spot nearby.
I've done the hip-hop class with Alan, and he's fantastic! Just hilarious, and definitely knows his stuff. Beginners beware: you'll be hanging on for dear life the first time you go, but it gets easier after that.
The class can get a bit crowded, but just get there on time and sit your ass up in the front so you can get a good view of what you're supposed to be doing :)
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I gave Dance Mission Theater a try one weekend when I felt the need to DANCE. I walked into a large studio space where an Afro-Cuban class was going on. I sat off to the side because the class had already started and was in full swing. I intended to join in after a little while, but I lost my nerve. The students really seemed to know what they were doing, and my awkward self would have stood out like a sore thumb. Plus, I was not dressed appropriately. All the girls were wearing those floor-sweeping swooshy skirts, while I was wearing boring capris. I felt out of place and quite ridiculous, but maybe I'll give it another chance later on. It will probably be more enjoyable if I'm better prepared, on time, or perhaps early.
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some people are not meant to learn dancing, and recently I come to the conclusion I might be one of those people.
Modern dance involves lots of graceful but complicated movements.
Hip hop class on sat is extremely crowded, unable to keep up, I walked around to check out African dance and Salsa. Both class were a lot smaller and emphasize simpler moves.
The atmosphere here is great, like those dance school you see in a movie, appropriately ghetto, free spirited, relaxed... whatever
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