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City Dance Studios
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Active Life Fitness & Instruction Dance Studios Performing Arts, Dance Studios [Edit]
10 Colton St(between Colusa Pl & Brady St)
San Francisco, CA 94103
Neighborhood: SOMA
(415) 297-1172
- Hours:
Mon, Wed 6 am - 11:30 pm
Tue 5:30 am - 9:30 pm
Thu 7 am - 9:30 pm
Fri 6:30 am - 8 pm
Sat 10 am - 3 pm
Sun 5:30 am - 8:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
39 reviews for City Dance Studios
39 reviews in English
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Review from Sylvia R.
San Mateo, CA
1/15/2012
Went there for the first time to take part in a Hoop the Flow dance workshop. City Dance is a vibrant and wonderfully positive energy-filled place. At lease that was my perspective and sense.
And, keep on the lookout for Stefana Serafina's next Hoop the Flow class there as well as at TwinSpace. -
Review from flying s.
San Francisco, CA
12/10/2011
City Dance Studios are beautiful, large, clean, and staffed with excellent dance teachers. I love coming here. The main studio on Otis St. has a small parking lot which can often be full of stage moms dropping their ballet tykes off, but hey, it's better parking than most studios in the city. Their annex on Harrison is a gorgeous studio with lots of good parking around it. The staff are friendly, and as a performer, I so appreciate how happy they are to let me drop off flyers for my dance events around town.
I take belly dance from Asia, and the class has made a huge difference in my dancing. Asia teaches mainly Egyptian style dance, but she also introduces us to Saudi, Lebanese, and Moroccan steps. Best of all, there is live music at the Saturday class - up to 6 musicians show up and drum for us, and Asia only needs to say, "Can I have a beledi, please?" Where else do you get to dance to live musicians??
Asia's warmup is great - my body has all kinds of issues, but it opens right up in Asia's class. I always get a great blood-pumping warmup prior to our drills - it's the best workout I get from a teacher all week! She uses a mic, so you can hear her over the drums, which is very considerate.
If you've had at least a tiny bit of belly dance or any other kind of dance, you will do well in Asia's class. Asia is the only dance teacher I've ever met who is skilled in teaching multiple levels at the same time. She gives a drill to the more advanced folks, and while we're working it out, she helps the newer folks understand the basics. What I love about Asia's class is that she doesn't talk the step to death. She clearly demonstrates at 1/2 or 1/4 time the step we're doing, drills us, speeds it up to full time, and then offers plenty of explanation if it's clear that we need it. She lets the body figure it out before taxing the brain, which I think is an excellent strategy. -
Review from Denise L.
San Francisco, CA
11/6/2011
I used to come here quite often (as in around 15 classes within the span of 5 months). I mainly took the hip hop class and I took 2-3 jazz and jazz technique classes. The first time I ever went, I got super confused and lost because the streets around the area are really small streets and are easy to miss.
Hip hop classes were really, really beginner's level. If you never danced in your life then go for it! Don't even worry about having two left feet because you'll still make it out of the class alive. The two instructors were cool and I liked the music they chose. If you're more experienced with dancing or want to challenge yourself if you're like me, I dance but don't have too much experienced in hip hop, I suggest ODC. That class is more challenging and makes you break a sweat.
The jazz classes were okay. The instructor did not really seem to care if I would return to take her class or not. For my first class, she was just like "oh, well you've done some jazz before?" I responded yes and all she was like was "okay" and then continued class. I feel like at other studios, the instructors just seem to take their students more seriously. For some reason, the instructor here just seemed to assume immediately that I wasn't serious about dancing or the class. Totally not true and just made the whole vibe in the studio weird. -
Review from Alexander H.
San Francisco, CA
12/28/2011
Love their Sunday Hip Hop class... next up Bollywood. It's a good way to sweat it off and trying something fun! =)
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Review from Nicole R.
San Francisco, CA
10/19/2011
Belly dance with Asia is one of the best dance classes that I have taken in the Bay Area. She teaches primarily Egyptian belly dance, and is thorough in her explanations of each step. She is also an ineffable beauty to watch, moving with ease and elegance even after her retirement from performing in venues. Asia covered a wide range of steps in just an hour, while managing to keep the mood of her class relaxed and fun. I will definitely try to come to her class more often. Also, a plus: parking is easy to find!
-1 star off for limited music selection...she plays the same song over and over again. And I have ADHD. -
Review from Irene L.
8/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
I wanted to try Emerson's hip hop class because of the raving reviews. None of the classes work out with my schedule besides the Sunday night one, so I went... HUGE MISTAKE! I didn't know it was beginning hip hop! And when they say beginning hip hop, they MEAN beginning hip hop. We learned the same 8 counts and did them over and over...and over...
However, if you are truly a beginning dancer, this class is for you. Emerson's moves teach you swag and basic musicality. He is funny and has an awesome personality, and I wish I had the time to check out his other classes.
The location is extremely cutty and the parking lot is small and cramped. Totally got lost getting here, lol. But the facilities are nice and clean! -
Review from illy f.
San Francisco, CA
7/31/2011
So one night after watching an episode of SYTYCD I decided to get off my ass and do it! I've always liked hip hop and booty bouncing in my room wasn't cutting it anymore. That being said my education at City Dance began, and I must add I am enjoying every moment of it!
I've only taken the beginner hip hop classes with Rocko (Saturday) and Emerson (Sunday) here. Both are great and different. Rocko's class has less people so if you are a bit shy I would try his class first. Both teachers give great lessons regarding groove and the fundamentals of hip hop. They both do a great job in creating a non-judgmental environment and are both very funny. Also, for $12 it is an ass kicking work out!
My only complaint is that I wish everyone else taking the class could get loose and knock out some jokes (why so serious guys). The giggles that come out are of the nervous and awkward variety, which is no beuno when you just want to have fun in a class. That is of course is not a reflection on the teachers, but maybe if we did a booty bumping dance circle as part of the warm up it would get everyone loose.
Overall, love the classes. There is parking, and if this is your first time coming here give yourself an extra 10mins or so because you will get lost. It is kind of in an odd area with twists and turns. -
Review from Ji L.
Saratoga, CA
7/19/2011
This is a very nice, clean, and SPACIOUS dance studio for the city!
I've only taken hip hop classes here, but they've all been really good. Funkanometry SF has rotating teachers including company members and guests. Their Thursday and Sunday night company classes are guaranteed to be great training, a good workout, and a challenge...and they're open to the public.
If you're newer to hip hop, I would not recommend the company classes because they are intermediate-advanced level classes. There are great beginner's classes taught by very talented dancers.
There are also performance workshops where you and a group of dancers learn and practice a number of pieces to perform at the end of a 10 week (or so) session. The cost is usually a few hundred.
I've especially enjoyed taking Rocko's class on Tuesday nights. It's amazing just watching how he moves. His choreography can be hard hitting and sometimes almost robotic. He has great musicality and emphasizes on style. He's very approachable and will review the pieces so you feel comfortable.
P.S. The parking lot is CRAMPED!! -
Review from Leslie R.
San Francisco, CA
6/28/2011
The joys of a great Groupon deal. 4 classes for $22 couldn't be beat. My friend got the deal too and we tried the Monday evening Samba class with Cindy. This class was at the Harrison street location. Tip: Right across the street from Costco and right next door to the big brick building that is the SF department of health services. I say this because there are no signs. It literally looks like a warehouse outside with a door open.
Nice hardwood floors and high ceiling plus doesn't smell like funk. We were greeted by Cindy at the front desk and she was the most pleasant and personable person, so for girls like us who never tried Samba it was a positive first impression. There were no more than 4 ladies in the class and what I appreciate is that it's a place to have fun. There is no "Black Swan" competitive, I want to audition for "So You Think You Can Dance", and eventually star in a "Step Up" movie vibe. I say that because being in a environment of good solid dancers can be intimidating at times for those of us that haven't been dancing since we were 4.
I enjoyed the class- It kicked my butt and I struggled a bit because Samba has a diferent rhtyhmn to it than other forms of dance that I've tried. Citydance is awesome because it is a space that creates the type of energy that exudes FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT and EXPRESSION. Give it a try. -
Review from Rachel R.
6/11/2011
Took the Sat 11:30am hip hop class with Lee Lee...
She is hilarious! I liked her just as much for her comedic comments as I did for her teaching.
Beginner hip hop is beginner enough that you won't be shaking your fist at whoever decreed the leveling. -
Review from Ninja H.
7/20/2010
My body was made for dancing!!
...so when I was asked to go check out a dance class with the wonderful Ting and her friend on a groupon I absolutely accepted. And the class they want to check out is Brazilian?? Bonus!! As I was recently introduced to Samba and it is now one of my favorite.
I had a little bit of a problem finding the teeny parking lot for the studio so I'm sure it'd be easier if I had taken the bus as I had originally planned. But got the dancing adrenaline pumping as soon as I realized I was in the right place...color me excited!! =)
Gotta say that the reception/welcoming committee completely failed in their duty to welcome and put the beginning dancer at ease. Thankfully, Rhonda made any ill thoughts of City Dance fade quickly while in her class. "Relax, enjoy it!!" I LOVE IT!!! So much fun and she is just the biggest ball of energy ever!! Can't feel down with Rhonda's karma around you. =)
I look forward to coming back again! -
Review from Claudine C.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 8/18/2010 36 Check-ins Here
Disclosure: still good friends w/ the co-owner of the studio; still dancing with her in the same company.
City Dance Studios now has an Annex - located next to Costco on 1420 Harrison, the annex boasts beautiful high ceilings and smooth, beautiful wood floors. There's even more opportunities to dance, work out, stretch, etc. Notable in the annex location - Capoeira classes now twice a week, Power Yoga on Saturdays, Samba classes and workshops, and HipHop with LeeLee Brewster, another friend and awesome teacher.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/2/2007
Full disclosure: I'm friends with one of the co-owners of the studio, who also happens to be in my… Read more »
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Review from ethan l.
San Francisco, CA
4/1/2008
Here's my story of last sunday...
So i circled the area for 20 mins looking for the darn studio. Bunch of empty edifices, odd-angled intersections, road construction, a bum who was "starvin like marvin". Found a city treasure though... "ahhhh, so that's where Power Exchange is..." Alright, so i finally found City Dance Studios (in the alley, in the same building with big sign that says "City Ballet School"). Lots of parking for $1...
As i walked in, the door slammed (windy day) catching my right wrist, bruising two bones and a bit of bloodshed. Crap, I made it this far, and was pumped to take my first hip hop class, so moping on home is out of the question. So i played it off at front desk when they asked if i needed medical care, signed the quick liability form, paid 12 bucks, threw a buck in the parking lot tip jar, and made my way...
Lets see... the online class schedule said 5:30 to 7:00. Walked in at 5:25, and people were already stretching to music, so i just jumped in quick. Dam, am i that outta shape, can't even get low enough for the leg stretches... Class was called over at 6:45 though... odd, i better call and confirm their times...
Demographics... maybe 5 guys and 20 girls, coming in street-ballet-running gear, mainly whites and asians. A friend later asked me, "so were there any black people?" DUDE! I'm like, "WTF foobang! black people ARE hip hop! they dont need this class!" Honestly, i love and respect black people, they can dance freakin well, have that soooul-style culture (love the southern drawl and cookin), and freakin great sense of humor... There were also men and women of ALL ages. Holy crap, this one lady, who seriously resembled former Mrs. President Nancy Reagan, she was tearin it up! Jaw-dropped, I was ashamed, ought to befriend her next time...
Layout-wise, even for a class that size, there's enough space for urself. The wooden floors had bounce to them (easier on the knees?)... Its a beginner's class, but a staffer later told me that the original coach (Emerson?) for the class was out of town, so the advanced guy subbed him... she said his routine was more on the difficult side that day... i didn't do that bad (surprise!), but that extra piece of info was inspiring... 8D
You see, friends know me as cool and pretty conservative. I dont dance, never taken a single dance class before, much less pursue this type of social activity. You could say i suck at dancing, im a typical clubber, ONLY. I lean and i bounce my shoulders, i dont do kick steps and hip routines...
But hey, it wasn't too hard to catch on with the class. Of course i messed up constantly, but the entire experience was very very FUN!!! Scanning the room, I saw plenty of footwork and timing mistakes, but there is no pressure, u gain what you can from simply participating. Everyone seemed friendly, upbeat, enjoying the workout... they become ur peers the minute u set foot on the floor, since most of them are in the same hip hop challenged boat! 8D
After 30 mins, i sat out. The wrist was throbbing, couldn't punch or flow anymore. Nice staffer gave me one of them medical cold packs (the ones where you have to stomp the sh*t out of, to mix the chemicals inside, initiate the freeze.) Completely bummed on missing the 2nd half of the routine, but still had a blast watching the class give their best efforts...
Ambiance? Well lit, about 30x50 floor space. I broke a sweat after 10 mins (im at a computer 11 hrs a day.) The room could be 5 degrees cooler, my preference, that woulda been sweet...
For those hesitant people, I also had my doubts and worries about finding the right place to practice hip hop, but things turned out way better than expected. Just throw urself in the mix once! And dont forget to say hi to me, im the goofy confused guy, always spacing out, trying to remember the steps, but giving his 150% regardless... -
Review from Danielle S.
San Francisco, CA
10/19/2008
I feel like I had a first day at school again. Walking into a large building, bustling with young people in it, knowing where they're going, hanging on their friends arms and grabbin' quick drinks at the water fountain. Except for the fact I wasn't at school, or at least not a traditional one. City Dance, precariously located in what it seems is the middle of a city block, provides thoroughly fantastic dance classes and instruction in a variety of genres, such as hip hop and ballet. I definitely wasn't there for the ballet. I respect it, but I still can't see myself in the little leggings, seems disturbing. Anyway, going through with my roll dawgs, we signed up at the front for a two hour class of beginning hip hop for only twelve bucks. First of all, let me make a point of saying that my entry for the class was cheaper than my toll and gas to get there.
The spacious studio we walked into had great mirrors, was large enough so I didn't smack into the thirty or so other people in class with me, and had a great system. Emerson, my fly ass teacher for the evening, was serious when he needed to be, funny to lighten the class, and amazingly enthusiastic and dedicated. His choreo tonight was different style than what we were used to, but incredibly smooth, sharp, and f'in fly. Truly a fun routine we put under our belt.
Afterwards, because I was too daunted by actually participate, my crew and I sat on the sidelines of the Funkanometry company class. The moves were fresh, innovative, provocative, intriguing. Taught to the talented dancers at an amazing speed, the emotion coming alive from the moves stimulated the energy in the room, making it breathe like an entity. I was in awe, running the counts over and over in my head, thinking of where this could be used, and what part I would be able to do now, and what I was going to need to work on for later. They will be performing at the Hip Hop Fest in November, and we are already so there, rootin for their crew like it's goin' outta style.
Needless to say, I'm hooked. I want to see when the next set of classes are, with the attempt to grow and enhance my moves, get better, more fly, sharper. With conveniently timed classes, and genuinely nice and rockin' choreographers and dancers, all I could say when I left was, "See ya'll, same time, next week."Listed in: How To Look This F'in…, The Best Place To Be......End…
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Review from Monica R.
San Francisco, CA
7/19/2008
I took the beginning hip hop class, and it was a good deal--2 hours for $12. The studio it was held in was spacious and airy. The first 15 minutes was like a stretching bootcamp. The next 1 hour and 45 minutes helped me realize that when I try to follow choreography, I dance like a robot. And not in a good way.
If at first you don't succeed, dust yourself off and try again, dust yourself off and try again (try again)... -
Review from Teddy B.
San Francisco, CA
12/5/2006
. . . GYRATING hips in front of the TV with one hand behind my head and the other on my tummy to "Darren's Dance Grooves" featuring Britney and Jordan Knight on the video packaging http://www.learntodanc...
. . . please . . . let there be a better way.
Thankfully, Eric Fenn teaches hip hop at the City Dance Studios on Tuesdays and Thursday. I heard about him ( http://ericfenn.com/ ) after watching an impressive performance he helped choreograph for the dance troupe "Loose Change".
Fenn's choreography picks up from jazz, modern, ballet, breaking, blues and hip hop. His routines involves a lot of body rolls, floor movements and body isolation. The routines he teaches often builds from the previous class, and I learned the most when I attended regularly rather than occasionally. Some steps could be complex, but man! if you get it, then it kicks-butt. A lot of the moves can actually be used for club dancing, while others will look best for performing with a group. He has a friendly personality, is encouraging, and will adjust the pace of the class as necessary. The above stars are for his class.
Int/Adv and Beginning classes available, large mirror, hard wood floors, parking on-site. Drop-Ins okay. Check it out. -
Review from Jacquie L.
San Rafael, CA
9/21/2008
I love to be in the studio... it's where I feel at home.
I finally made it down here today to take the Funkanometry company class- Kyle was teaching.. his choreo is killer. It was the first time I'd taken a class in soo many years. My brain was total mush towards the middle of class but, I figure I'll give myself a break and come back next week to see if eventually it'll come back to me.
The studios are big - I think there are 4 of them at least. I can't wait to take some other classes here, too. They've got nice clean bathrooms but, the place still feels like one of those dance studios that's been around forever.
Plus, I think the owner started the studio simply to give back to the community- Sigh.. what good f***in karma. -
Review from Andrea U.
Los Angeles, CA
11/20/2008
The studios are beautiful and spacious, with wooden rafters up above and marley-lined floors for your dancing pleasure. The studio has a wide representation of genres, and every choreographer I've met here is fun and passionate about their craft.
Rhonda Low's Saturday Brazilian class is out of this world. Rhonda's choreography is so sexy and SO FIERCE. Be prepared to unleash your primal nature because the live drum ensemble produces rhythms that will bring out the animal in you! I swear, try it once, and the class will become an addiction.
Funkanometry rehearses at this studio as well and holds hiphop classes here a few times a week. The vibe is a little intimidating at times because the choreography is challenging, and you're in the company of people who already know each other and who dance 24/7. Nonetheless, the classes do attract dancers of all skill levels and end up being really fun and encouraging overall. So keep coming to class and doing your 'thang, bring a friend if it helps, and you'll surely witness your growth as a dancer. -
Review from Annie N.
3/14/2011
I love this studio. I've been here twice on local performances and battles my cousin was involved in. It's super cool, down to earth and chill. Not something you would expect from a ballet studio. I am fascinated with performing arts and this place provides the perfect urban feel for the new generation to spread their wings and test their rhythm. The parking lot is rather small, but that's a problem with San Francisco in general.
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Review from Corey V.
Updated - 11/4/2009
My second dance class was excellent as well. I did come to the conclusion that at my age, height and agility level - hip hop dancing is not my strong suit. So I decided to switch back to what I know best - kicking people.
Capoiera with Low on Wednesday night has been really fun. Two classes down and I wish I had started this a long time ago. Handstands, kicks and flips are not the easiest for me, but it's a great way to stay in shape. I hope to be able to make it to many more classes in the future.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/2/2009
Just took my first dance class ever at the age of 32 and it looked like it. Dennis' hip hop class on… Read more »
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Review from Kelvin Y.
Daly City, CA
12/28/2008
I went to the beginner hip hop class on Sunday evening, it was a very good class and everyone was very friendly. If you're afraid of dancing in front of others or don't worry about it, everyone was too busy following the choreography! Overall very good vibe, a great workout and fun way to burn calories! My only complain is it's a bit pricey, $12/class.
P.S. Usher's song 'What's your name' was awesome to dance to! -
Review from marevie t.
San Jose, CA
4/3/2009
I like it here! It actually looks like a professional dance studio where there's rooms and they all (well, from the outside looking in) look pretty decent sized! I was only in Studio A for the De La Fem class tonight and it was such a cool class, I'll definitely drop by again!
Warning though, its easy to miss this place since the parking is in the back and is limited. Took me a while to find the way to get to it without missing the turns! -
Review from Michelle S.
Seattle, WA
11/6/2007
This past Sunday was my first dance class ever. I have never been shy to dance at a club, with liquid courage in hand, so I thought I would try out a real-deal hip-hop dance class for fun. I brought my friend and sister along, so we could be uncoordinated together.
Emerson and Jovver are really cool instructors. Dancing seems really easy to them, so learning from them was not too hard. They made the class fun and I felt like I was getting most of the routine down.
The beginners class was not intimidating at all. Over 80% of the people in the class said it was their first time there. If you're nervous about people watching you, they aren't. Everyone is too concerned with learning the routine themselves and watching how they look in the mirror.
The only drawback was that we had to have been in one of the smallest rooms in the studio. The class was packed with people so there wasn't that much room to move around in. It would have been better if they could have coordinated the number of people in the class with the size of the room. Other than that, it was no big deal.
If you want to learn a routine in 1.5 hrs to some good music check out the Beg Hip-hop class w/Emerson. It's really fun and you'll get a good laugh while trying to follow along. I certainly did. I had a great time and I look forward to the next class on Sunday. -
Review from Jackie S.
San Francisco, CA
10/5/2007
I take the beginning Hip Hop class with Emerson the artistic choreographer of Funkanometry SF dance company on Sundays at 5pm ($12), and when i'm late the 7pm int/adv class ($10). Emerson is a great choreographer and the class is hela fun and a great workout!
So if you want learn how to groove, or if your getting back into dancing again, the funkanometry classes are for you.
The only problem i have had was trying to find this place! the very first time i tried looking for this place i rushed over from work and ended up driving in circles. then when i finally realize to go into the alley i was late for the class, but when i go to the desk they tell me the class wasnt that day when it said it was online! that kept me from trying for 2 weeks, but then i tried again and all was good after that.
Therefore the 4 outta 5 stars. -
Review from rebecca w.
San Francisco, CA
1/28/2009
I'm not a big yelper, but I have to share this new workout because it's the bomb!!
I attend FitWell with Julianna 3 nights/week and LOVE IT! Her workouts combine bar method + mat work which makes it fun. The workout strengthens, lengthens and tones, and I noticed a difference in my body within the first month. Seriously!
What I love about Julianna is she pushes you enough to get results without wearing you out. If you're looking for a different results-oriented workout to mix things up, you've gotta try FitWell! Oooooooh feel the burn!
Oh - I should mention that I have bad knees, and she gave me modifications when needed. -
Review from G. B.
San Francisco, CA
8/8/2009
Went to city dance for the 1pm belly dance class on Saturdays with Asia (http://www.arabesquebe...). It was pretty awesome!
They had live drummers!!!!!! I've been taking belly dance for three years and I've never worked with live drummers before. It was awesome to have feedback on your movements instantly.
Asia's style was very lead and follow, and if you didn't get something then she'd break it down. Her style is egyptian and folkloric, and she studied with a protoge of Tahia Carioca, which is even more awesome. I am planning on making this a regular weekly stop! -
Review from diane s.
San Francisco, CA
3/19/2011
I have been dancing since I was 3years old... and had to give up dancing after college. Dancing is one of my passions and when I moved to San Francisco, I vowed to myself that I would get back into it. I feel so fortunate that I found City Dance Studio! I take the advance Jazz class with Ann Barrett. Ann is friggin hilarious! She is so witty and fun, your tummy will hurt after class because of all her jokes (and from sit-ups and turns). She has a larger then life and super outgoing personality, which makes class unique and fun! She is very technical in dance and will call you out if you do something wrong. You will be put on the spot, but not in an embarrassing way... she truly cares and wants you to improve! My entire dance life, I have struggled with centering my core and locking down turns. Ann and coached and developed me to master triples, and I never thought I was capable : ) *ECSTATIC* I leave class feeling like I had the best girls night with my friends, everyone there is just darling and fun!!!
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Review from Bea M.
San Francisco, CA
1/4/2011
A group of us wanted to embarrass the bride-to-be with dance classes as she swears that she is as flexible as a metal rod. I called a ton of places but everything else was quite expensive. Finally I called city dance and called and called and called and called. Let me tell you, for a dance studio that offers as many classes as they do, they DO NOT pick up the phone. Its a good thing I am persistent or we would have lost on a really fun experience.
The belly dancing class was in the afternoon and only cost $12.00 per person (nothing compared to how much other places cost). The instructor was fantastic and the room was beautiful. LIVE MUSICIANS. Large room, wooden floors, IT WAS PERFECT.
The only reason I am giving this place 4 stars instead of 5 is the phone issue. They need to pick up their calls. -
Review from Ting A.
1/20/2008
i love to dance. i've perfected all 6 of my dance moves, and when i'm feeling saucy, i PURPOSELY put those dance moves out of order.
so, i thought that i should MAYBE be ambitious and learn a 7th move. beginner's hip hop - 5:30-7pm - sundays. emerson's fantastic. and funny too! - - he instructed us to move as if our 'booty was making a milkshake.' also, i think i may have been the only one who had to restrain their laughter when he likened a move to the 'ocho-ocho.'
diverse group of people and didn't feel like i was being judged by anyone in the room. had a lot of fun, and it was a COMPLETE workout.Listed in: Dusting Off My Dancing…
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Review from Ant T.
San Francisco, CA
3/24/2010
City Dance covers so many different styles from ballet, capoeira, hip-hop, popping, locking, house, b-boy/b-girl, and modern forms of dance. With the exception of ballet I believe you can jump into any of these classes for $12 a class. They all seem really fun and the energy is great in the studio.
I've been taking the b-boy/b-girl classes and they are a major workout!The b-boy/b-girl classes are really fun and energetic at City Dance. If you are new to the b-boy world or dance in general and are a little intimidated, the Wednesday class with b-girl Crykit is a great place to start. This class starts at 6:15 pm and is $12 a class that you can purchase individually. She teaches you all the fundamentals of b-boying. The focus is on top-rocking (on your feet), footwork fundamentals (floor moves), and freezes. She also shares information about the culture and history as well. Whether you are a beginner or have advanced skills, you will get a really good workout from these classes. Crykit works individually with different students in helping them learn new moves or assists them in honing the ones they already have. There's also a really good supportive and friendly vibe to each class.
If you become more advanced or want more practice, the Thursday class at 8:30pm with Milestone is also another option. He covers b-boy drills and power moves along with other fundamentals. He also is great at helping students achieve their individual goals. -
Review from jen d.
San Francisco, CA
3/1/2008
Went here the first time today for a NIA (dance/yoga) class, and it was a great studio. The room we were in was gorgeous - large, airy, good floor (ballet floor in this one, but others were hard wood). The restroom was clean, which is always a plus in these kinds of places. The fact they also have parking is a big advantage being right down town. ODC will still be my regular place, but I might try the occasional class here now and then.
Listed in: Get your dance on
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Review from Carolyn D.
San Francisco, CA
5/8/2010
I haven't taken a dance class in over ten years and my friend and I were a bit nervous about attempting the beginners jazz class, but we ended up having fun. This class is not truly for beginners without any experience, but the teacher and the rest of the class didn't seem to mind. Everyone there was super friendly, from the reception to the fellow dancers. We are looking forward to trying the hip hop class and many more in the future. Parking is easy too!
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Review from Chris U.
San Francisco, CA
7/31/2010
I recently look the "Yoga Athletic" class at the new City Dance Annex. The teacher, Mark Gonzales, took the class through a unique series of challenging poses that I had never seen before - he adds his own twist to the usual yoga poses - and it was an extremely good workout. After the class I had tons of energy and felt great for the rest of the evening. The next day I was sore, especially my legs, but I still felt great. I will definitely be back. The Annex is cool too because the studio had great natural light and wood floors and parking was easy (the giant Costco parking lot is across the street so no one seemed to park on the street itself). Also, I really enjoyed the music he played for the class, he clearly had spent a lot of time putting the mix together. I hope to make this a regular thing.
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Review from Baiyina H.
Los Angeles, CA
9/12/2008
I danced for a year at City Dance before taking on a fun evening gig checking in fellow dancers. As part of the dance community in SF for several years, I have danced at many studios around the Bay Area and come to love the casual, down home vibe of City Dance. The studio boasts loft-style architecture, hardwood or mylar flooring with good sound systems and an interesting mix of classes. I have taken Afro-Brazilian and Samba for two years and I swear by them. CD also offers the finest selection in Hip Hop classes in the city including: B-Boy/B-Girl, Breakdancing, House, Popping & Locking, Raw & Sexy and basic Hip Hop.
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Review from Melissa E.
Oakland, CA
2/15/2009
City Dance Studios is the best studio in the area that nobody knows about! I know because I've tried them all. People who know it, love it. But I'm constantly meeting dancers who live in SF and have never heard of this best kept secret. It is clean, affordable, has parking, and inspiring spaces.
Rhonda's Brazilian class is so much fun and such a great workout. I've been taking this class for 6 years, it is one of the highlights of my week. Even when I'm out of town on a fun trip I miss it. I have looked and never found a class that I like as much. Lowe leads a group of inspiring musicians who keep us all going with their great energy. Together, Rhonda and Lowe create a class that is one of the area's treasures.
I've recently gotten into Juliana's Fiwell class. Strengthening has become a new focus for me and this class really compliments the exercises I've been working on in physical therapy. Juliana is knowledgeable, helpful, and inspiring. The class size is smaller (for now) so she is able to give a lot of correction. This class is a good deal too when you consider that the Daily Method charges $20/class, physical therapy copay is $30, Fitwell is $11/class when you buy a class card. It's not fun in the way a dance class is, it's very challenging, but the class does fly by and you do feel really great afterward, so it quickly becomes addictive. -
Review from Patricia D.
San Francisco, CA
1/27/2008
when i first came to city dance, i remember this intense excitement of being in "a real dance studio" -- there were the girls (and the occasional boy) dressed for ballet that made me wish i had taken dance when i was younger. unlike most of the other girls from my hometown, i wasn't into jazz/tap/ballet when my age was still a single digit. i was too busy falling off my bike or something. i've always like to dance, just on my own terms. it's never too late to start, and they have an amazing variety of classes to choose from.
i'm taking the house classes with mikey disko from soul sector -- unbelievably fun -- and trying to make it to some of the weekend workshops as well. i love the space, and appreciate the clean bathrooms. walking here at night can be a little sketchy, but otherwise i have no complaints about the studio. -
Review from Linda N.
8/17/2010
took a beginning hip hop class at the annex location with my cousin. the class was great! loved the facility and the small number of students in the class. the instructor, lee lee, was awesome! she's so fluid in her dancing and is a great teacher as well. once i'm back in sf i'll be hitting up some of these classes more often. its such a good workout! =)
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Review from Elaine A.
San Carlos, CA
11/15/2009
All I can say is Emerson Aquino is one of the fiercest hip hop dance instructors in the Bay Area. He basically taught me how to strut like a sexy girl...yes I learned that from a guy. And that's a damn beautiful thing. Beginner classes on Sunday are awesome. If you've never tried hip hop, go. Go now. No egos. Just awesomeness.
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Review from foodbot c.
San Francisco, CA
5/27/2008
Bib's Raw & Sexy wednesday class is EXCELLENT. I would recommend it for any serious hip hop dancer, definitely NOT for beginners. Her choreo is strong and complex but deceptively simple looking. Planning to go back and to try the new Thursday night Femme Fatale classes too.
