AfterHours is an uplifting community environment for adult dancers. With a range of levels from introductory basics to advanced, and many styles and instructors to choose from, you will find a teacher for you. As with any group class, give yourself some space to try a few different teachers until you find the one(s) you enjoy the most! The owner, Shawn, and desk staff are friendly and helpful; always happy to answer questions about levels, styles, and instructors. My go to is Arianna Hyatt. She teaches well rounded true to level classes (read the class description and know thyself). She motivates and encourages dancers to meet their goals, whether that is fun, fitness, training for an audition, getting back to dance after a hiatus, or perhaps all of the above. She provides a supportive environment while offering technique, structure, and a little challenge - if that is what you're after. The community she's cultivated within every class is palpable. If you're a beginning/intermediate or advanced level dancer, looking for ballet, broadway, or tap, definitely check the schedule for her. (Double check the level as she teaches a variety.) If you're on the fence, I'd say find any class that interests you at the studio and give it a try! read more

Long story short: I had an indescribably unpleasant and discouraging experience at the beg/int tap class with Arianna. She was not welcoming, was late to the class, and did not give me the chance to even try tapping before she completely ignored me for the entire class session. Long story long: I've had dance training with Broadway choreographers and performers (just not in tap), and never would they be so unprofessional and rude to a newer dancer. This was my first time trying Afterhours, I had gone with a friend (with prior tap experience and classes taken at this studio) and we booked two classes, back to back. Beg/int Broadway Jazz class straight into beg/int tap. Arianna, who instructed both classes this night, arrived late and complained about the studio space we were in. Yikes. Not a great first impression as a new dancer at this studio. After this class, I put my tap shoes on and my friend quickly walked me through some basics of tap. Just with a side-eye from the corner of the room, she came up to me and said "this is not the space for you, I will go get you your money back before you take this class. I will let you stay, but this is not the class for you." Understandable, but after SO GRACIOUSLY!!!! allowing me be in the room with only 5 other dancers, she ignored me the entire class, despite me catching onto and being able to pick up what she was teaching. She had condescendingly recommended another instructor at the studio, but with a tone as if the instructor was subordinate to her. The most frustrating part was that she was very slowly and deliberately helping another dancer in the room, who was also a beginner. It was rude to me and not conducive to a welcoming environment for growing artistry, whether I was refunded or not. I spoke with Shawn after the class and she mentioned knowing that Arianna is short with her words and they had a similar situation with another dancer last week. If you knew this hostile behavior is happening at your studio, how could you let that continue? She also gave an excuse of a disclaimer being on the description of the class. 1) it was hard to find 2) even if someone has/hasn't "mastered" a certain level of dance, why are you fully shutting someone out of your learning space? It is apparent in the class attendance the success, or lack of, rather, at this studio. I truly hope that no other dancer experiences what I did at Afterhours, and that this behavior from any instructor is corrected. I was given my money back and a free pass for another class at the studio, but I honestly do not trust either of those ladies that I dealt with at the establishment to recommend me any other class there. read more

Recently went back here with my friend to take Beginner Hip Hop and it was so much fun. The format changed from the last time I went, which was split into half ish--hip hop cardio dance then followed by more focused movements. Current format is more broken down steps, on repeat, then more added to one song. Basically, you're learning a choreography. It's kind of challenging for me. Makes my brain and body work a bit harder to be in sync. There's also an abs section. I do love the new format, but I personally like the nonstop hip hop dance better just because I like nonstop cardio! LOL They offer a lot of classes & the owner is nice, mellow, yet fun personality. She always makes it a point to say our names/greet us. Appreciate that gesture! read more

I can't say enough positive things about After Hours Dance. I joined a tap class in January 2025 after a forty year break from dance while raising kids and going about life. I then returned to my original dance form which is ballet. Arianna Hyatt is my teacher, and simply one of the best instructors I have ever had. Not only is her knowledge top tier, but her ability to take time with every student in a detailed manner that meets each person's needs while helping them adjust and correct and improve is unlike anything I have ever seen. (I raised four daughters who danced and were a part of competitive cheer so I spent a lot of time in the parent zone watching a wide variety of teachers and coaches over the years) so I know when an instructor actively teaches. Arianna has made this older gal returning to her dance roots feel seen, heard, and cared for. Her ballet classes have helped me to develop, strength, flexibility, stamina, and a renewed joy with dance. She always takes time to answer any questions and stays after classes to help and advise if needed. The confidence she has helped me build has had a direct influence on my decision to participate in the dance Showcases at After Hours. I highly recommend this wonderful dance studio to many people often, and if you want to level up and learn more ballet from a truly gifted and giving teacher, you need to try one of Arianna's classes. read more

AfterHours Dance Studio - This 59 year old loving my ballet classes with Arianna. - Dance Studios Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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I heard about After Hours dance studio from a friend and decided to get back into tap dance after YEARS of no dancing at all. From the very first class I took, I was amazed that a studio existed just for adult dance. I quickly felt at home and reunited with that joy of movement I had as a kid. This studio is absolutely amazing in that it is organized, friendly, encouraging and has well rounded styles and levels. Shawn (the owner) is so friendly and teaches classes as well. As I got comfortable in tap, I became adventurous in my dance goals and tried Afrobeats, several Hip Hop classes from different teachers, jazz, and jazz fusion. But my heart is happiest at tap. I had no idea what level was appropriate for me when I began getting back into tap. I started out in Beginner because I couldn't imagine over reaching to a higher level with years of dust on my tap shoes. It was clear in a short time that I needed more of a challenge. Tap came back to me quicker than I thought it would. But it's only when I landed in Arianna Hyatt's Tuesday night tap class that tap became the center of my week. Arianna is an amazing teacher of technique, rhythm, and form. She knows how to challenge her students and is dedicated to their growth. She prepares new across the floor combinations every week, and I love her challenging and fun choreography. Her love for dance and her teaching ability have created such a loyal following of students. In the two years that I have been taking tap from her, I have gotten so much better and even joined the Showcase performance! I never imagined performing as an adult, but it was such fun! If you want to find joy of movement and dance is something you're interested in, this is the place for you. I have brought friends and family along to try it out and they've enjoyed themselves too. It IS a dance studio so keep an eye on the level of the classes offered and check out the descriptions. When in doubt, start at the most beginner level and move up like I did. But regardless of which style or level you want to try, whether you've danced all your life or are just getting started, there is a welcoming and encouraging place for you here. read more

AfterHours is such a great dance studio for beginners like myself. I went here twice after looking everywhere for a dance studio that truly had a beginner friendly class. I took the beginners jazz class with Dante and it was perfect for me. I felt very sexy. I felt good in my body and he paces the class really well so that it's not too slow if you're a more advanced beginner, but it's enough to where you aren't confused and ready to give up if you're super novice. Unfortunately, I live about 45 minutes away from this amazing dance studio so I haven't been back since but trust me if I lived closer I would go every day. It's only $20 for a drop-in class and you can pay in person -- you don't have to book in advance, and there are several classes to accommodate your schedule. They also have classes that are hybrid, so you can go on Zoom or in person which is very unique. Definitely try this place if you're a beginner with very little dance background because this is somewhere where you can start and grow. read more

As someone who wouldn't consider themself as a dancer I am more than grateful that I found this studio. The positivity and strong community that I have encountered here has been incredible. Every teacher I have taken class with has made me feel welcome and has encouraged and guided me in the right direction when it comes to skill level. After the pandemic I didn't think I would go back to dancing but after taking a class with Arianna, I was inspired to continue to push myself to a level I could never imagine not only in dance but in my personal life as well. Genevieve, London, Kristin, and Elizabeth are great teachers as well and teach everything from technique work to strength training! The owner, Shawn, has created a truly safe space for adults to come and be creative while learning new skills. Even if you are nervous to come take a class the descriptions are super helpful to find something that is best for you and if you are still wanting more information don't hesitate to ask a teacher about the class level! No matter where you are in your dance journey there is a class for you! read more

Shawn is a miracle worker! I wanted to do a surprise dance for my bride and approached Shawn with the caveat that myself and the groomsmen had little to no dance ability and even less rhythm! Shawn created an amazing dance routine that looked good and within our skill levels, and really put in the effort to create something memorable. She also pushed us and showed us that we had more ability than we thought! I was very impressed with her music mixing skills as well as she cut up and edited an amazing song for us. Overall, Shawn is fantastic and Afterhours is the place to go if you need any dance lessons! read more

Kristin C. has an amazing Pilates class every Sunday at 9:45am. What a welcoming place, with ladies of all skill levels who will still feel like they have been challenged walking out the door- a great end to the weekend! Kristin gave personalized attention without passing any judgement. read more

AfterHours Dance Studio - Me, feeling it - Dance Studios Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

This is an amazing dance studio. So first off, I am a 28 year old male who was looking to start dancing for the very first time. I didn't even know what dance class I wanted to take. The first time I visited this dance studio, I met the beginning ballet instructor, Genevieve. She was super nice and, along with a front desk staff member, circled possible beginner classes I could take. The classes ranged from hip hop to jazz to even ballet. Now I had to decide which dance class I wanted to take. I decided against hip hop because the songs can have cuss words in the lyrics, so I was split between ballet and jazz. At first, I was iffy about doing ballet because I was thinking, like what the world thinks, that only girls do ballet. So, originally, my mind was set on doing a jazz class. It was this past Friday morning, March 15, 2024, and something happened where I all of a sudden wanted to take the ballet class. I was nervous in booking the class, and I was also equally as nervous buying the dancewear for the class at a dancewear shop. Then, as the time crept closer for me to go to the ballet class, I was getting super nervous. I put on my ballet outfit and headed to the dance studio. When I was there, and class was about to start, I noticed I was the only guy there. That made me very nervous, but I expected this. During the class, my brain was going nuts, telling me, I shouldn't be here. Ah!!! What am I doing?!? I shouldn't be in a ballet class. But then something awesome happened. When it was time to practice ballet moves two at a time, I went last, obviously because this was my first time doing a dance class, let alone a ballet class. The ballet teacher, Genevieve, was so nice in helping me do the dance moves together when it was my time to go practice the ballet moves. Then, when I ended by standing on my tippy toes (wearing ballet shoes) and holding my arms above my head in a circle, THE GIRLS WATCHING ME CLAPPED! I was so stunned by that and those girls who clapped who were also in the ballet class were so nice for doing that. So was Genevieve, the ballet instructor. The girls clapping after I finished trying to do the ballet dance definitely impacted me in a positive way, even though I was the only guy in the ballet class. I will never forget that that happened in my very first ballet class. Then, I really liked the ballet class so much that I went back the following day, Saturday, to do yet another ballet class. Never in a million years would I ever imagine that I would be typing the words, I took a ballet class. Now I am thinking about doing the ballet class weekly, every Friday evening. Also, this is breaking through the stereotype that male ballet dancers are gay. That is not true. Ballet is hard as there are so many intricate steps and correct positions that you have to do. Ballet music is also fun to listen to and dance to. To the people who say ballet is just fluttering in tutus, that is so wrong. Try taking a ballet class, and you will see just how hard it is. Anyway, now I am looking forward to hopefully, every Friday, taking the beginner ballet class with Genevieve. This dance studio has sparked a passion in me that I never knew was there, taking ballet. Thank you Genevieve for being so nice to me, and thank you to the girls who clapped for me after my first "performance" in ballet. That will be etched in my mind. Thank you. This is a fantastic dance studio that I highly recommend. Go break out of your shell, and do something new. It may change you. I know it certainly did change me when I attended my very first ballet class. read more

Starting back into classes and this place is so much fun! Will be back soon. Very wide range of skills and they have something for everyone and everyone was super pleasant to be around. read more

Fun class! I lived further out, and I also prefer to take classes online (virtual). I'm so happy this dance studio offer virtual classes. I don't know any other studio beside this one that does that. I was able to book a class within 5 minutes before class started, and I was able to still join the session. I'm looking forward to taking more dance classes with AfterHours Dance Studio! read more

This place has been everything I was hoping for when I was searching for a dance studio for adults. I have very little dance experience, besides just always dancing with friends at bars/clubs/parties. I wanted to actually try, but always felt like I am too old and too new to join any studio at this age (26). I signed up for the beginners heels class with Natalia, which is a sexy slow dance class. It was EVERYTHING! There were a lot of different ages joining the class, from 20s to probs upper 50's and it was challenging but still she made it so easy to learn. I now come every week and got a class pass. The owner, Shawn pops in sometimes, and she is so nice and cool. I really love the welcoming vibe of this studio. They make you feel so comfortable to get outside your comfort zone and have SO MUCH FUN!!! read more

AfterHours Dance Studio - They got me doing moves I didn't think I could do!! - Dance Studios Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I took Shawn's basic hip hop class. It was very high energy and fun!. The best dance class I've ever tried. I've been to some salsa and bachata classes before, but this was my first time trying hip hop (outside of the club and house parties lol). The class was this cool mix of learning technical moves and just having a blast. Shawn keeps the energy high and breaks the moves down in a very clear way. When the hour was up, I was like, "Already?!" but super sweaty. The class was so fun that I hadn't realized an hour had passed. I left feeling like me and the other people taking the class could be a legitimate dance crew in a music video lol Thanks Shawn! read more

I set up a private 1-hr shuffle dance class for my friend & me. We felt very self-conscious because we had never shuffle danced before. To be clear, we are 70 years old. The studio set up the coolest teacher for us, J.C. As expected, we got easily confused so he did quite a bit of repetition because it was needed. We ended up learning three different steps & looked a little teeny bit like the tik-tok & Instagram videos. The studio itself is quite nice, with big mirrors lots of light and of course hardwood floors. We are planning on taking a few more private lessons because we are not yet ready for prime time. There are some beginner classes that I am thinking about taking as well. I highly recommend this place if you want to dance! read more

I have been going to Afterhours for almost five years now. It's an amazing place and community of dancers. They've recently added a beautiful second studio and more classes to their already long list of options. Highly recommend, there's something for everyone! read more

AfterHours Dance Studio - Dance Studios Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

This dance studio is so much fun! I started taking the beginning lyrical and the beginning heels class a few weeks ago and enjoyed it so much! For my exercises, I usually do my walks or go to the gym. I love taking walks but found that the gym doesn't motivate me at all. Dance is a reminder that this was always something I enjoyed doing and missed so much. Dance is needed to ease my anxiety or just distressing from a hard day at work. After my first class, I bought the 5 class pass and will upgrade to the monthly membership pass. I will definitely be coming back to take more classes. AfterHours is my new home to have fun, let loose and let go of my insecurities! read more

Holy moly! I just realized I hadn't posted this yet. What a GREAT studio! I've been looking for an ADULT dance studio since Jimmie Defore's closed and this one is one of THE BEST by far that is local to Costa Mesa (where Defore's used to be). The owner Shawn is super friendly and is such a fun dance teacher. You definitely don't get that newbie vibe like at other dance studios and everyone is so welcoming. I look forward to taking more classes as my work schedule permits. I'm so GLAD that I FOUND THIS HIDDEN GEM!!!! Great for ANYONE that wants to learn how to shake your A$$!!! Notice all the classes in the schedule that don't require dance experience! Truly a great place for adults of all ages to learn to dance! If you've got the inclination to dance...this the place for you! read more

AfterHours Dance Studio - Their schedule as of May 2019. - Dance Studios Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Finished my first class tonight and it was a lot of fun! Everything I was hoping for in regard to getting a good workout and learning a routine. Already looking at their other classes to take. Shawn is very sweet and remembers everyone as they come in. No experience needed to have fun! read more

Tremaine's hip-hop class was a welcoming, fun, and safe environment. Everyone who attended was super friendly. I did not feel judged or that people were trying to outdance one another. His teaching style is fast and detailed, but he will gladly answer every question asked and go over choreography until you understand it. I highly recommend AfterHours Dance Studio and taking a class from Tremaine! read more

I absolutely LOVE this dance studio. I just recently started to experiment with different workouts, dance classes, etc. I wanted the dance classes to feel like fun while I get my stretch in and some workout along the way. This is way better than going to the gym and doing "my time" on a treadmill. I have taken classes with Deanna so far on Mondays. This is such a fun class: Beginning Dance. She is sooo funny. I get much more than workout out of this class: fun atmosphere, learn to dance, stretch, laugh a lot, talk to people. And a lot more :-) Definitely recommend. read more

AfterHours Dance Studio - Loving the class :-) - Dance Studios Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I've been dancing for most of my life, and it is so great to be in a studio with other young adults. The students' ages range from teenaged to 40s/50s. It's also been so wonderful to take classes over zoom during the pandemic! I've been taking the k-pop dance class, and I love it! We have learned dances from Twice, iKon, BoA, and others. read more

Fantastic experience! Took the beginner hip-hop class and it was amazing. Loved how the instructor made sure everyone was capable of executing all the moves before moving on. The session was very inclusive and engaging. Highly recommend! read more

Hi Everyone. I'm not one to come and talk about my experience a lot of the time but I thought I'd share this story with you guys. a friend of mine invited me to come to this class, she mentioned it would've give me a boost of "confidence" and I thought it would be welcoming. Once I walked inside I felt judged, awkward, and 100% out of place. I went on a Wednesday night where an instructor who was way too fast was showing us a heel dance. I think her name was "Natalia" and she wasn't good at explaining the dance and I felt very rushed with her steps. It could have been that I went on a bad night but everything felt too pressury for my type of night. Never felt a boost of confidence while I was there. for everyone, you should try going with someone who's experienced in the class, might work out better but I will stick to my honest rating. read more

Loved Shawn's energy and she also raps while she dances LOL. Will try to rope my friends into going with me next time.

Took my first beginner hip hop class with a friend here and learned half a routine! The environment is fun, friendly, and just what I wanted for an intro of getting into dancing as a workout. I can feel my confidence and excitement rising, will definitely be back for more classes of all dance types! read more

The instructors are welcoming and the beginner classes are actually doable. Sometimes trying something new is daunting and the bar is set high but here there's an actual progression and it's not insane. Been going here for a while and I will continue. read more

I went there for 5 beginner hip hop classes recently and had very best experience. Shawn is a great teacher and knows every students name :) I learned a lot and would love to go back. Thanks Shawn! read more

Finally found an adult dance studio to continue my passion for dance! After Jimmie DeFore closed, there weren't many options for adult dancers to take classes. I would visit Millenial Dance Complex a few times, but it was too far away for me to go weekly/monthly. I am so excited for these new owners and you can tell how proud they are of their new studio! It really shows in the love and care they have for their studio and their clients. I will be continuing classes at AfterHours and can't wait to be back! read more

I took a class recently and, honestly, I can't wait to go back. They were super welcoming, the instructor was positive and encouraging, I loved his choreo, and the class was seriously so much fun! There are many classes to choose from and I want to try them all! :) I am so happy to have found this studio! :) read more

I took a fitness dance class with Dylan and he was so fun and energetic. He would hype me and friend up when we were losing confidence. I would go to his class again! read more

Extremely welcoming team, great place for all levels. Would highly recommend this spot to anyone who loves to dance!!!

Left with the biggest smile on my face. Have been looking for an adult dance studio offering all the classes I grew up taking and this is the only place that feels like home. So so happy this studio exists, it's perfect! read more

Calling all ADULT DANCERS we finally HAVE A HOME!!! I am so thrilled Pam and Shawn have created a space for adults (yes, actual grown ups). Like most of you I was pretty bummed after Jimmie Defore closed and heard about this new studio through the grapevine. I had all the concerns at first...are these really adult classes or will I be with a bunch of high schoolers who are at a competitive level...I haven't danced in 7+ years I don't want to embarrass myself...I can barely touch my toes now while stretching in second I won't be able to do their choreography... if this sounds familiar I assure you, wash all those silly thoughts away, this is the place you've been waiting for! I love the studio because it's welcoming to all levels and the instructors make you feel very comfortable and confident if it's been a while since you've last danced. Andrew even got me comfortable improvising, and I hate improve! I've taken Broadway Jazz (Shawn-sub) , Burlesque (Pam) , and Contemporary (Andrew) and the choreography has been awesome for all three! Do yourself a favor and take a class, you won't regret it! read more

I would give this place higher than a 5 if I could. Ever since Jimmi DeFore's has closed, I have been missing out on quality dance training, that is, until now. The instructors are amazing, the schedule is diverse, I love the the late night scheduling...I don't see myself ever stopping now that I found this place! read more

I enjoyed my jazz and ballet class. I feel it's a good work out class and the teacher is very personal and she walked around and corrected students. I will definitely come back! read more

I've been taking lessons here for nearly 10 months now and love it! The owner is super friendly and welcoming. I love that it's marketed towards adults. Personally, I've danced on and off my whole life (never the best or super competitive, just something I've enjoyed). When I decided to get back into dance I was encouraged a lot by the dance instructors and the owner. All the instructors there are great and break the steps down; take it slow before speeding it up; and welcome questions. I'm not the best there but I can hold my own. It's great to be part of a dance community there where I don't feel super inadequate, but rather encouraged and welcomed. read more

you have k-pop classes!?!? i'm in!! omg i cant wait! 5 stars for k-pop dance classes!

Shawn was my dance teacher from when I was around 13 YO at Jimmie Defore Dance Studio all the way until I was 18 YO. She is a phenomenal woman and a fantastic teacher! It is thanks to Shawn that I am still dancing to this day (I am 26 YO now). Her choreography is always fun and more importantly, she always makes you sweat! I have met some of the teachers Tremaine and Arianna and they are very friendly as well! I highly recommend Afterhours and I wish them all the success in the world! :) read more

I just took the beginning hip hop class with Shawn & I had so much fun & burnt a ton of calories!! Her class was epic! I will be definitely be back soon. Thank you so much Shawn!! read more