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Ariel Dance Productions
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Education Specialty Schools Dance Schools Performing Arts, Dance Schools [Edit]
2385 Winchester BlvdCampbell, CA 95008
(408) 621-2790
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
Su M. said: "Krysta Walsh is a wonderful dancer and teacher, and can help you develop the skills you need to look good and feel good at whatever level of dance you are at. Watching Krysta dance is inspiring and the main reason I chose to take…" read more »
32 reviews for Ariel Dance Productions
32 reviews in English
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Review from Lawrence L.
Sunnyvale, CA
1/1/2012
Initially I came to Ariel to take some hip-hop classes and try it out. With all the dance shows on T.V. these days, I thought it would be a fun experience to try it out. I didn't have any dance background except for a ballroom dancing class in college and a few swing classes. So, I was a little worried I would feel out of place or that I would be one of a few beginning adults in a room full of advanced kids. It took me a little while to get started, but I am truly glad that I took the plunge! The first hip-hop class I took had quite a lot of working professionals like me that were taking the class, and there was a very friendly, welcoming atmosphere where people were having fun. Naturally the first few times I felt like I was struggling to keep up, but it got better over time. The teachers are all experienced and great at what they do, have different styles, and want to help you learn. Students range in experience from complete beginners to seasoned dancers.
Also the studio puts on a number of shows a year that students in the classes can join if they want, and I must say that is one of the best experiences! As a note, during the month or two before the show, classes that will perform in the show will turn into production class mode, which just means they are trying to get ready for the show. Whether it is performing in the studio or at a theater, the shows are an opportunity to work on a routine or a song that you can showcase. I've been in a couple of the shows already and I've had a blast performing in them!!!
Since that first hip-hop class, I have expanded to take a bunch of classes that I've always been interested in learning. I think the prices are really reasonable and I've gone the unlimited class route since I started taking so many classes. I've been at the studio over a year now, and I'm super glad that I found Ariel as this has been a wonderful community for me that I can honestly say is like a family to me. So, if you are thinking about taking a class, I'd say drop in today (there are studio managers inside you can talk to) and get your groove on (or groove to all classes like me =) )! -
Review from Kristine I.
Fremont, CA
10/18/2011
Honestly I started taking classes with my gf for moral support. It was supposed to be a one month thing for me but I got hooked. Everything is a great experience: from the studio, to the teachers to the students. you feel a sense of family over there.
take classes with Jenny for Jazz. She teaches beginner and intermediate. Great energy, great person, and very patient.
i hope to come back one day! -
Review from Liat N.
San Jose, CA
3/7/2011
Let me preface by saying I am definitely not a dancer by nature. I play soccer. I have foot/eye coordination, not arm/leg coordination. I decided to step out of my comfort zone and try some belly dancing because I thought it looked cool and I like the music.
I had a Groupon and I went to 8 classes of beginning belly dance.
First of all, I don't think a drop-in dance class is a good idea, especially for people like me who need repetition and gradual building on skills to really get something down. Since there are different levels of beginners in the class, you can't really build on previous classes because some people may be first-timers. The technique here is just to follow what the teacher is doing and that doesn't do it for me.
I did learn something, but not as much as I had hoped. That said, I'm glad there is a place for adult beginner dancers to make fools of themselves. The teaching technique is just not for me. -
Review from Ellie F.
4/21/2011
One of the greatest things about Ariel, is that the different classes each offer something unique. I've taken from a number of the teachers, and can't wait to try my hand in some of the other classes.
The performances, while super-fun to be in, are also AMAZING to watch! Adult dance recital doesn't always inspire the best mental picture, but I was truly entertained and had a great night when I saw Ariel's show in early April.
The dancers and teachers inspire me, and everyone is open and welcoming.
If you come to Ariel, you will be asked to try new things...but no one cares if you can't get the hang of it right away! We're all learning and growing, and how can we do that without making a fool of ourselves from time to time? -
Review from Eric O.
San Jose, CA
9/21/2011
With the popularity of reality shows such as, "So You Think You Can Dance?", "Dancing with the Stars!", America's Best Dance Crew, and, the prime time broadcasting of "Ballroom Finals", dance has been thrust back into the consciousness of American pop culture. Interest in learning how to dance has skyrocketed out of control. Do you want to find out if you can dance? If you are someone looking for a dance studio to get your groove on, or, just trying to find a comfortable place to satisfy your curiosity of dance without the reality show stress and drama, look no further than Ariel Dance Productions located conveniently off Winchester Boulevard in Campbell. I've been dancing at Ariel for over six years and, now regret not becoming involved even sooner. When I entered the studio (very nervous and unsure), I was greeted by many friendly faces and warm smiles. Every experience I've had since that day has been happy and positive. The dancers are all very enthusiastic about dance AND sharing and expressing their love for dance. Just ask any dancer here and they'll tell you how comfortable the atmosphere is at Ariel!
I started in hip hop, but, became even more involved in other styles offered, including jazz, Latin, tap, Afro-Brazilian, Bollywood, musical theater, contemporary, lyrical and, yes, even ballet.
The instructors are experienced, friendly, well-prepared and helpful. Each choreographer is very unique and innovative. And, yes, the hip hop instructors will show you how they really dance in clubs! The many hip-hop instructors have their own unique style, but, will teach it slowly and in a subtle, sometimes funny yet memorable way.
The director/owner/choreographer, Ms Oanh, is an incredible and active member of the studio who'll make you feel right at home. Also, if you have any questions about the style of a particular class, an instructor, prices, or schedule, just ask her. Believe me, she'll know the answer. She's friendly, patient, open-minded, and very knowledgeable. And more importantly, she's ALWAYS available for all her students and potential students. Do not forget to stay for her classes to learn her unique and energetic expressions of jazz and contemporary.
This studio is unique in that it caters mostly to adults who come from many different backgrounds but also has some very mature teenagers who love to dance and infuse their unique skills and energy to class. The experience of the dancers range from beginners ("never have dance before...EVER!") to experienced dancers who have danced "their whole lives" and/or, in performance companies. They've all found a home here. All the classes follow a similar structure. It starts off with a thorough warm-up, with range of motion exercises and stretches. And let's not forget the all important abdominal exercises. Afterwards, the fun begins by learning the choreography to current or popular songs and then practicing over and over again. Oh, you're going to sweat! This means you're going to get in great shape and have fun. Now, I know there are some posts here on Yelp that say that after one class (or a series of 4 to 8 classes), they are not dancing like they imagined! Well, in order to perfect any new learned skill, they have to practice! In learning to dance, a dancer needs to get their bodies used to different types of movement and their minds used to learning and retaining choreography which comes from repetition!!! For beginners, the process can be frustrating but, being around a group of encouraging and enthusiastic instructors and dancers make the process fun and worthwhile.
The class prices are very reasonable. A student can pay a drop-in fee ($18), pay for a package of classes (with classes averaging $12-14 per class), or, for the truly curious and daring can pay the monthly unlimited price of $150 (plus, the onetime registration fee, $25) and try out every class and all the different styles to find out which one really appeals to you. Now, the unlimited class is probably the best deal in town because depending on how many classes you take the average price of each class you pay for will average out to be half or a fourth of the drop-in fee. Other dance studio's unlimited prices I've seen run into the several hundreds of dollars. Plus, Ariel Dance Productions offer dance classes EVERYDAY, so, there is no good excuse to not dance and fulfill your dream or satisfy a curiosity!!!
If you find that you do love to dance and perform then you have the option to showcase your talents in front of your family and friends in our informal and formal shows. Sounds intimidating? Seriously, it's not! I've been a part of several shows and have always felt confident because of how well the instructors prepare all the dancers. Here at Ariel, the dancers perform on stage...YES, on stage, at least twice a year!!! And, believe me when I say that everything from the choreography to the production value have improved with each new show! -
Review from Tiffany H.
Chandler, AZ
7/30/2007
Hmmm, what can I do with $18? I could get two tickets to the movies...nah, not much worth seeing. I could buy 3 new Loreal lip glosses....nah, way too many in my purse already. Let's see, 6 gallons of gas...nah, think I'll ride my Schwinn.
Wait, I know!!! I could take a dance class at Ariel. So many choices...Afro-Brazilian, Hip-Hop, Jazz...$18 well spent in my book.
So, last Monday was my first time at Ariel. Afro Brazilian (thanks for the invite Lisa). What a great hour! Moved like I haven't moved in years, left energized, felt totally encouraged by the instructor, not a bit of intimidation. Classes are drop in so I didn't feel any pressure to commit, but definitely felt encouraged to return. So guess what? I'm going back tonight. Wouldn't miss it! -
Review from Alex S.
San Jose, CA
10/4/2010
Ariel Dance Studios is my first dance experience and it has been the most amazing adventure ever. The teachers are all superb and the prices are great. I usually take the Unlimited package and come in to all my favorite classes ranging from Jazz to Contemporary to Hip-hop.
Each of the teachers here have such a strong desire to see their students learn and succeed that it is truly admirable. Every two quarters or so, we hold a showcase and it is just an amazing amount of fun for friends and family.
Dance is my single strongest craving in life and I have Ariel Dance to thank for.
THANK YOU!! ^___^v -
Review from S C.
Saratoga, CA
1/29/2009
I've danced on and off throughout my life - depending on time, finances, and health.
I danced at a local studio for about three years. Let's call it Trailer Trash Studio ("TTS"), because that's what it was. It was awful. No mirrors. No barre. Cash-under-the-table tuition. Hideous. No wonder I never got better! And there was no YELP to tell me that there was another, better, cooler choice... ARIEL DANCE PRODUCTIONS!
A friend from "TTS" referred me to ADP a few years later. I perused the website and was surprised to see so many evening classes. The studio really caters to the working - or otherwise preoccupied - adult! (But kids, from toddlers to teens, have a variety of classes from which to choose as well!)
So I called and spoke to Oanh (the director) and she took me on just eight weeks before the annual show! I performed in two numbers and had a great time. I've continued taking many classes there and my technique is improving dramatically.
There is also a wonderful breadth of classes, from hiphop to jazz (many varieties!) to afro to tap.... and so on. There's really something for everyone.
And any level of dancer is welcome... and you WILL be welcomed, because Oanh makes it a policy that everyone introduce themselves to new class members, and make them feel at home and part of the team.
The school really emphasizes performance; there are several opportunities to perform each season, from ADP concerts to community events to musicals to revues. Each member's special skills might be called on for any given production.
If you aren't into performing, however, don't worry - you might get some friendly ribbing, but you will never be forced to perform, nor will you feel excluded during class whatsoever.
In any case, I've taken classes at many studios in my life, but ADP is definitely the best I've seen. I highly recommend it. Please come join us! You won't regret it! -
Review from Kelsey S.
San Jose, CA
8/21/2011
Not only is Ariel catered to adults (which is super rare), but there are SO many different classes to choose from, the prices are reasonable, and you have performance opportunities. Not to mention that everyone is INCREDIBLY nice! The atmosphere of the studio is so welcoming and safe, which is important to me. Ariel also caters to adults of ALL experience levels, and everyone is so encouraging! I recently moved to San Jose, not knowing anyone, and everyone at the studio has made me feel so welcome. I highly recommend Ariel for anyone!
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Review from Katy S.
San Jose, CA
6/3/2009
I am so grateful for finding such a wonderful dance studio here in Campbell. I found Ariel in the fall of 2007 after doing a google search for dance studios. Having not danced in years, I was a little hesitant about "starting all over again". I was pleased to find encouraging instructors and a non-threatening environment at Ariel. Everyone was super friendly and very accepting to people of all dance abilities. I have made life-long friends in less than two years... and that's saying a lot! Everyone bonds throughout rehearsals and in preparation for the annual summer performances. Who doesn't like dressing up and performing for a crowd?
Ariel offers so many classes in a variety of dance styles, so there are lots of opportunities to expand your dance repertoire. I have been able to try Afro-Brazilian, Jazz, Lyrical, Ballet, and Hip Hop classes. They also offer Tap and Contemporary, and Voice lessons, too! My daughter loves the Saturday morning Parent and Me class, even if we only go once in a while. Their children's program is outstanding for beginning dancers. I hear the class fees are less than other studios in the area, so it's definitely an affordable way to stay in shape while having fun!Listed in: Campbell
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Review from Pachi C.
6/21/2008
What I got: Beginner Hip Hop Dance class
5 stars since this is the only dance class I have ever known (since my preschool ballet lessons)! But I must still give credit where it's due. Erin Cuevas was the instructor. I dropped in on the 2nd class in then series of 5 and had a good time. She started off with warm up and strength stretches to the music. I really liked this part. The routine was tough - after this class I realized I really DON'T know how to dance!! But it was fun. Erin's good at adjusting the pace so everyone can follow and making sure everyone was clear on each step of the routine. I would go back if I wasn't out of town for the next two weekends...
One-time drop in is $18. Series of 5 is $65. -
Review from Ashley B.
Santa Clara, CA
9/21/2010
I've been dancing at Ariel off and on throughout college and working in the real world. Oanh, the owner, is so professional yet warm and loving. She runs the studio on time and everyone seems to be extremely invested in creating a community/family atmosphere. I love that about Ariel. It's geared toward adults, which is also great, especially for adult beginners. I've gone to hip hop classes at other studios but the classes never start on time at other places. Ariel's classes are prompt and they get you to exercise. Brandie's Intermediate/Advanced Hip Hop Class is killer! She brings you through a fun warm up and some abs before you learn the material for the night. So much fun.
I am going to begin dancing on Elemental Remix, the all girl dance team that practices at Ariel, and I'm looking forward to a family atmosphere. -
Review from Melanie A.
Santa Clara, CA
12/1/2008
I've been taking dance classes at Ariel for about month, and I really love it here.
I've been taking jazz, lyrical, tap, and ballet at Ariel and am now attending rehearsals for an upcoming Broadway Dance Revue.
Ariel has children's classes, but what I am really impressed with is all of the adult classes that I have been taking.
The teachers for jazz, lyrical, tap, and ballet are all wonderful. They are all very friendly, helpful, and competent. They cater to different skill levels, but have also pushed me to improve as a dancer.
The environment is also very welcoming, encouraging, and noncompetitive. I am so glad that I found a studio with adult dancers who are serious about dance and love to dance as much as I do! You won't find any dance snobs here and you won't find anyone with two left feet either.
The best thing about Ariel is that they offer a ton of classes, six days a week! So you are bound to find something that will fit into your busy schedule. Some of the adult classes are a little late in the evening, in order to cater to people who work until 6pm.
Also, dance classes are never cheap, but Ariel has very affordable package deals.
After a month, my turns are already getting better again, and I can't wait until we have a performance!! -
Review from Lisa G.
San Jose, CA
Updated - 11/7/2010 11 Check-ins Here
2 years later. Still just as encouraging. Still just as supportive. The best part about Ariel is that there is no shortage of opportunities to perform and just have fun. Within the last 2 years we've had number of new students come and try out the place.
As we end the 2010 season with the Winter showcase on Dec. 11 and the Winter Ball on Dec. 18, Ariel has quite a number of 2011 shows - (one in Jan. and one during the spring time). The Jan show being a collaboration with renowned choreographer Bi Tau Sung, and Hollywood themed spring time show.
Whether you're looking to pick up something new or regain technique from dance from years ago, I would definitely recommend coming by the studio and getting your feet wet.
Speaking of which, for all NEWBIES interested in coming in to Ariel, check out Groupon (especially this week) as they offer special deals from time to time.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/10/2009
I joined Ariel Dance Productions spring 2008 and have experienced nothing but encouragement and… Read more »
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Review from Nicole W.
Mountain View, CA
4/14/2008
Friendly faces, great selection, affordable entry... kind of like your fave local bar... but SO MUCH BETTER! I love Ariel and all of the people. Oanh, the owner, is a wonderful, happy person whose personality sets the mood for this studio. Brandie's Beg/Int. Hip Hop is a great way to learn rhythm and club moves, and get a nice work out to good music. There are tons of other classes to check out at convenient times.
Drop in is $18, but you'll find that you want to keep coming back, and package deals make your per session cost much lower. -
Review from Laura S.
San Jose, CA
11/28/2010
I always wished that I knew how to dance, but I found that it was frustrating to try to learn. Most studios have many kids around and I found that adult classes either didn't work with my schedule, were expensive, or expected you to already know what you were doing.
Ariel is different, it has a variety of opportunities, fun teachers, and has really helped me grow so far. Plus, I love the opportunity to perform without feeling weird being an adult. This is a studio meant scheduled for the working adult. The reasonable prices and fun students make this my favorite find of the past year! -
Review from Valerie V.
Campbell, CA
2/4/2009
I have been dancing with Ariel on and off for over 5 years now, and this place has been nothing but welcoming and wonderful! The teachers are fun and kick back, and don't have a pretentious attitude. An EXCELLENT place for a total beginner, and challenging enough for the intermediate/advanced dancer. They will totally modify across the floor moves for you and your level, and help you learn technique in a fun way.
The people that go there are fantastic as well! I have definitely been in dance studios where I feel like I am being compared to everyone else, or secretly being scoffed at, a general pretentious vibe. That is SO not the case here. People are warm, friendly, and rather hysterical actually. It's good to come to Ariel with an open mind for learning and a sense of humor for joking around with your classmates. Before you know it, you'll be learning so much about dance, getting fit, making friends, and practically living at Ariel, and that's totally cool.
All the classes are wonderful, all the instructors have unique and different styles and different things to teach you. Brandie and Kento are fantastic for hip-hop, Brandie very fun, sassy, and funky, sorta Pussycat Dolls. Kento also sassy and funky, and will use a lot of hard hitting moves and isolations. BOTH break down moves and choreography very well to make sure your on the same page. Rory as well! Oanh is the awesome director of Ariel, and she teaches as well, usually Jazz, Contemporary and Afro and Funk jazz styles. Jenny is the tap teacher and so upbeat and positive, you'll learn with constructive criticism, and have a blast while doing so. Kristy also does jazz, and will challenge you to get out of your comfort zone, and to practice techniques in across the floor and choreography.
I could talk about all the teachers all day, but I suggest finding a class you are interested in, or check out the schedule and taking a drop in some time. They also often do free workshops available to the public, so totally bring your friends and family to those events, too!
Professional, fun, welcoming, located just a couple blocks from downtown Campbell, and right across from Winchester Light Rail station, Ariel would love to have you laugh, learn and dance with us! -
Review from Monica L.
3/15/2008 20 Check-ins Here
I have been dancing here since September 2004 and love it! They are my second family! The prices are reasonable for the amount and quality of classes you get! Not one single person there has a bad attitude and there is absolutely no competition between dancers. Everyone is there because they simply love to dance!
I started out with Brandie's Monday night hip hop class (which I HIGHLY recommend) and have been moving around with different teachers to learn different dance styles. Each teacher brings something new to the studio and I have had such positive experiences with each one. You will love it here! I can't find myself ever leaving this studio!
And I recommend them also for Kids classes too! -
Review from Adrienne P.
Newark, CA
8/15/2007
Boom! Kah! Ba boom boom Kah! Yeah, I have no coordination skills whatsoever, but Ariel Dance made my first dance class lots of fun.
Dropped in on a Beginning Hip Hop class taught by Rory. The class was so small that it was like a private lesson. It was fabulous. Rory was super mellow and low-key. It was not stressful at all. Sure, I looked like an idiot, but at least I had lots of encouragement! Plus I did work up a sweat.
Oanh (another choreographer at the studio) was super nice and patient while she explained how to sign up for classes and what the policies were.
I would definitely come back for more classes. I am obviously in need of lessons! -
Review from David Y.
Cupertino, CA
7/25/2007
Ariel Dance is the only studio in the bay area I found that catered to adults. Most students in the class are adults in various professions. Although there are some teens, the classes are not focused towards teeny boppers. The choreographers are also mostly professional adults.
This is my 5th years at Ariel. I initially started taking only hip hop and had no intentions on learning other styles of dance or performing. So far I've performed in five shows and learned new styles of dance such as musical theater and jazz.
Love the various styles of hip hop taught here. Every choreographer brings their own unique style and understands how to teach anyone willing to learn. -
Review from Adam M.
Santa Clara, CA
6/3/2009
I actually just looked Ariel Dance up in November 2007, when I was looking for a place to take hip-hop class in the South Bay. I'm from SF and I'm used to really stuck-up dance studios where everyone takes themselves way too seriously. Ariel is nothing like that. I love the fact that there is this very strong family atmosphere at Ariel. The staff, who take some of the same classes i do, make an effort to get to know you. Soon, everyone knows you and you're part of the family. I love it because it's given me a place to call home away from home.
As for the classes, there is a great age mix at Ariel, especially in the urban dance classes (e.g hip-hop, popping, and breakdance). Also, Ariel is one of the few studios that offers breakdancing, which is my passion! Also, Ariel offers all kinds of other stuff, like ballet, jazz, and bellydancing. I'm more of an urban guy, myself :P
Finally, if you stick around Ariel, you'll probably get a chance to be in one of their shows, which are seriously hella (yea, I said HELLA) fun! In my case, I get to invite my friends to come out and watch me breakdance like I'm Ronnie from Super Crew.
Go to Ariel. You'll meet some awesome people, take some great classes, and you'll never want to leave. This studio is amazing! -
Review from Eve K.
For my milestone reviews, I like to save em for something special, so for my 600th my new found dance home is it. Dancing here is a fun activity that happens to be exercise along with stress-reliever and happiness inducer. My most wonderful recent life addition since becoming a yelper.
Cost to worth it rating: 4 ($18/class drop it but if you pre-pay or take multiples it's $13 or less)
Return worthiness: YES!!!
Highlights:
- People: the biggest strength of this place, as everyone is so incredibly welcoming and friendly and epitomizes a true family. There are people who have been regulars for years but they aren't cliquey but open to all newcomers. Attitude is collaborative and there for fun rather than competitive. Every single person I've met has been fantastic. I could go in forever about each, but here are some I have to mention.
-- Oanh: owner who teaches as well as runs the studio. She cares about each student and the very first time I came she seemed genuinely happy and thanked me for joining her studio. So sweet.
-- Brandie: awesome hip hopstress extraordinaire. Amazing dancer and choreographer who works her class hard in the best way: you get the best workout, learn so much, and are inspired by her.
-- Kristy: jazz funkstress who plays fun music and was my first Ariel teacher to encourage me to keep coming back
-- Kim: fantastic theatrical jazzer who creates such fun routines and teaches in such a specific way so that she makes sure everyone looks perfectly together
-- Eric: I almost didn't include him cause his ego is so large being in almost every class, but his hamminess can't help but make you smile and his big heart and effort to make every person who joins feel like they belong is invaluable
-- Monica: via a yelp thread she recommended this place and I decided to try it out. She gave me detailed info about classes and has become a dear friend.
- Amount of adult classes: unmatched in any studio in the greater area with 6/night with styles from jazz to hip hop to tap and more. Many studios cater to kids with a few teen/adult classes for high school kids, but this studio is for the real adult looking to continue their dance education
- Shows: professional quality and a fun performing outlet
Midlights:
- Varying levels of difficulty in classes depending on instructors and participants. For some intermediate can be more beginner and others you need to have significant experience for.
Lowlights:
- No water fountain or waiting area: need to bring your own water bottle and wait in the sides of the rooms. Forced me to get me Ellen "laugh, dance, hydrate" water bottle that I love, however and you get to observe other classes while waiting for yours.
- No air conditioning: makes it a little bikram yoga-ish during those heat wave days but there are big fans
Since the studio I'd been going to for 12 years has made some changes, I've been thrilled to find Ariel and am happy to continue dancing there for years to come.Listed in: ROTD Love, Fun Exercising Options
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Review from Beth F.
6/3/2009 51 Check-ins Here
I was referred to Ariel Dance Productions by Jenny G, and after taking the studio's workshop in January, I knew that I'd found the right place for me. Coming to Ariel Dance Productions feels like coming home--you are instantly welcomed by the owner, Oanh, the faculty and the other students. I started at the beginning of February and was able to perform in the Broadway Dance Revue show in April. I can't wait for our next show!
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Review from Jessica H.
San Jose, CA
2/2/2009
I've been going to Ariel for the last (almost) two years and it's like a second home to me! The people there take you in without pretenses or trying to one-up each other. In fact, you'll find people applauding you for your efforts in every class. The teachers are amazing; they take the time to show you how to do something properly right down to walking through the step so you can see them by example. Oahn, the manager at the studio is a kind, outgoing, and understanding person and makes everyone feel welcome. I love going and unwinding after a full day of work. I never thought I'd be someone who would fervently go to classes (let alone dance classes) but I am there at least 3 nights a week!
Listed in: The Places I Go Out
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Review from Polina P.
Weehawken, NJ
Updated - 3/7/2010
Went to my second class. It does get less intimidating, but I still have a few complaints. The music is too loud to the hear teacher. Also to like this you definitely have to be a fan of repetition as a method of teaching vs. by breaking down the steps.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/10/2010
Yesterday was my first time at Ariel Dance studio. I came for the beginners belly dancing class. The… Read more »
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Review from Joy H.
Oakland, CA
10/2/2008
I've been taking hip hop dances from Krisuan, and they've been really fun! He's a great teacher, with a really interesting variety of routines. It's definitely not a beginner beginner class, which is great! You get to do some really amazing things! Highly recommended dance studio!
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Review from KC S.
Cupertino, CA
5/2/2008
Awesome place!!! prices reasonable... the director Oanh is very professional, reliable, reasonable and friendly... this place is definitely a great atmosphere to learn dance and meet new people... it's built around a great community of awesome/friendly people... and the teachers are awesome!!! they have a lot of experience.... are fun, focused and helpful!!!
this studio has an extensive offering of adult classes as well as children classes... Ariel offer many types of dance classes... that can suit many diff. preferences.. from break dancing to ballet, afro-brazilian, belly dancing... etc...
revising... my mistake... first class for first timers isn't free... but every so often.. they have free introductory workshops.. on Saturdays... for new students...
thanks! -
Review from Chris M.
Sunnyvale, CA
6/20/2011
Similar to other reviews, I was also looking for a dance studio that I could go to and have fun while getting a great workout but not being stuck in classes with teenagers. This place is perfect in that regards and nearly all the students and teachers I've met are just wonderful and make everyone feel so welcomed. The variety of classes offered is great and the fact they offer unlimited months is just perfect.
I especially am loving the Zumba and it is perfect to end the weekend with such a great workout. It would be even better if they could offer Zumba twice a week for those of us wanting to burn those extra calories. Also I wish more beginner level classes were offered in the early evening with the Beg/Int following for those new dancers who want to be challenged a little more after the beginning class.
My only issue is the air conditioning in the studio. It either doesn't work well or the studio doesn't want to use the extra energy bc even walking in for a class you feel hot (which definitely doesn't help when you haven't even gotten out on the dance floor for warm-up yet). Since we're finally starting to get a summer heat wave going on, this is the only thing holding me back from enrolling during the summer since I definitely don't want to be dancing in a sauna.
Besides that, I would definitely recommend Ariel and suggest starting out with their Trubate deal if you haven't worked out or danced in a while bc you are guaranteed to take a few classes and then be out for a week from either not being able to walk from working your muscles too hard, or just forgetting that you are no longer a teenager and not as flexible so end up throwing your back out. The deal offers one month unlimited for only $75 so you and your wallet don't feel as bad for missing so many classes you were looking forward to! -
Review from Karin C.
Saratoga, CA
12/10/2008
I dropped in for a class to see how I would like this studio and the teacher. I went in for a beg/int hip hop class and loved it. I am in need of lots of help but the fellow students and teachers are quite encouraging. Can't wait to go back next week and the weeks after!
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Review from Andrea O.
San Jose, CA
6/4/2009
Ariel is awesome!
And, the owner, Oanh, is wonderful! -
Review from B M.
Los Angeles, CA
6/29/2009
Oanh is professional, organized and passionate about dance!
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Review from Cristina C.
San Jose, CA
8/27/2008
Mondays are tough. It's the first day of the week and i'm still savoring my weekend fun. What can i do to get some excitement into my system? Where can i possibly go? I found a place that offers dance classes i haven't quite heard of or haven't quite found. It's a small studio called Ariel Dance Production in a plaza down in Campbell. To share a little experience, I checked out their afro-brazilian class and met a Brazilian instructor. Although it can be tough to get pass her accent, she can definitely communicate with impressive footwork and movement. It's more intense than i thought it would be. It's a work out and yet it's not. Your hips move to the beat of Samba while you show off some very happy feet! It's an amusing pattern you don't see too often in a city. It doesn't stop or start there. Like many tribal dances, you refrain yourself from counting and getting stuck on technique and start to focus on the meaning of these body expressions. With the guidance of a good dance teacher, you'll be inspired to move with joy. If you get it right, you'll move beautifully and tell the stories of these ancient rituals, festivities, and traditions. Afro-brazilian dance can truly bring some life to a meaningless day. And Mondays will never be quite the same again. I hope we see each other in the next musically adventurous class!
