I came in for the 11am Aerial Silks Beginner class and had a bit of a rough first impression. When I walked up to the front desk in the main studio, the receptionist was looking down at her computer and didn't greet me. I stood there for a moment trying not to interrupt, but when she finally looked up she seemed visibly annoyed, almost like a "what do you want?" expression. I let her know I was there for the Silks class and she told me to go to the building across the parking lot. The interaction felt pretty short and awkward. Aerial Silks is already intimidating if you have no experience, so having this type of first impression really made me question if I even wanted to patron the establishment. That said, the class itself completely turned the experience around. Ashley, our instructor, was fantastic. She was super patient, encouraging, and kind. Aerial silks can be intimidating if you're new, but she made the class fun and approachable. I ended up having a great time and almost forgot about the front desk interaction by the end of it. If the front desk experience had matched the quality of the class, this would easily be a 5-star review. I would definitely come back for Ashley's class, especially now that I know I can go straight to the other building. read more

I rented a studio space and they were super fast to respond. Bethany was super easy and always available . Thank you!

This review is long overdue as this happened in August. I reached out to Balance via text message, as that was recommended online, for a trial class for my two girls. We confirmed the trial date weeks in advance for a 4:00pm Monday class. Balance's schedule changes so my oldest no longer can try a class before 6pm on Mondays. We arrive at 3:45pm on a Monday for my youngest to try a class. At the front desk is Li (Studio Manager) and Clay. I just talked to Li and she tells me the class is at 4:30pm, not 4pm. We wait until 4:30pm to find out from the instructor that it's for three year olds. Not the right class! I go back to the front where Li apologizes and admits she wrote it down wrong and it was in fact at 4pm. We end up rescheduling it for 5pm on Thursday for both of my girls and my youngest leaves upset as we just waited around for 45 minutes. Thursday comes and Clay and another woman are at the front desk. I talk with the woman who tells me she only has my oldest on the schedule. Explaining with that the other class might have been canceled! Then follows with "we only offer trial classes to new clients". That doesn't make sense because my oldest is returning with no issues for a trial AND that was never mentioned by text or on Monday when we were there in person. I reply very matter-of-factly that they need to work on their communication. I DON'T mention how incompetent they appear because that would be rude. Clay, who has witnessed both instances, stands up from behind the desk to get in my face and repeatedly yell, "Ya here now! Ya here now!" NOT an apology or an approach to correct the problem. Of course he does this in front of KIDS AND CAREGIVERS! My first reaction is shock, then anger, and then wanting to leave. I don't retaliate to set a GOOD example. The woman ends up getting my youngest in the class. When we leave, I ask for the manager's contact using the text thread previously used. It takes multiple attempts to eventually get the correct email address as they keep referring to the info email address. That's when I speak with Li (Studio Manager). I explain my experience where she then admits she was the one at the desk on Monday and apologizes again. I'm understanding as everyone makes mistakes and she was friendly the whole time. I then find out that Clay has a history of this type of behavior!!! What?! Why is he still working there around children? He apparently has multiple roles at Balance too! She asks me if I'd be interested in trying a month for free and promises that I wouldn't see Clay. I reluctantly agree as my girls initially liked their classes. We'll, Clay IS at the front desk Thursday afternoons so I do have to see him. We end up not finishing the month out and my girls end up not liking their classes anyway. I will never support this company as they still employ Clay even with repeated offenses. read more

I was new to Austin just before the pandemic, looking for a fun dance studio! Unfortunately, this place felt very uncomfortable and unwelcome. It felt like switching schools in high school years - the ladies in the class were really clique-y. There were clear groups of the "popular" girls who were real chatty amongst themselves and with the instructor but ignored everyone else, there was the nerdy group just trying to get the steps right, there were the stragglers in the corners. The instructor didn't acknowledge the "newcomer" either. I just felt like the outsider looking in and eavesdropping on seemingly a private class, which wasn't. read more

Since this is our first dance experience I don't have much to compare it to. We've tried Balance Dance hip hop and acro silk dance. read more

These studios are great place to take any kind of dance classes they offer different types from salsa , ballet and shuffle there's plenty of parking spaces outside and the location is easy to access read more

Yesterday I attended a break dancing demonstration by students from the Balance Dance Studios at the Thinkery. Wow. I was super impressed! The kids had such great attitudes and seemed very confident and sure of themselves. They were performing improvised dances in front of dozens of strangers. I loved how creative and expressive they were. One of the subtle aspects of the performance I noticed, were the two adult 'coaches' who participated. These two guys were GOOD. Remember that Southpark episode, "You Got Served?" These two guys would have been on the team serving all the other teams. What really caught my attention about the two coaches was that they really kept out of the spotlight during the demonstration. They definitely put the kids front-and-center. It's easy for an adult to get caught up in doing something they did when they were younger and take advantage of a stage like that to show off their abilities. Karate, skateboarding, break dancing, etc. These two coaches only flaunted barely enough of their talent to give a glimpse of what is possible. The audience kept their focus on the younger girls and boys who are still working on their skills to do those moves. The kids were never upstaged and I was excited for them each time they took the floor. When my son gets older, I'll look into the offerings at Balance Dance Studios. If he's interested in break (or other forms of) dancing, this is my top choice for instruction. read more

Balance Dance Studios - Students from Balance Dance Studio perform Break Dancing demo at the Thinkery. - Dance Studios Near Me - Austin, Texas

We just had a birthday party for a 4 year old there. The facilities are beautiful and many of the studios feature big windows with lovely views. The staff - especially Ashley - is so helpful and accommodating. Aside from renting a room with dance lessons, which is all we did, they have so many other options - like a blackout theater - and are willing to accommodate whatever it is that will make your kid-party excellent. First of all, if you book a party, there's what I think is a standard option of some dance lessons. (Owner - please correct me if my facts are not right!) That sounds a little nuts for crazy toddlers but that's what our coupon was for. I was doubtful that this could go well as toddlers and pre-K's are just nuts. I was so surprised to see that they are so ready for this! They've got a little "living room" with books and colors and drawing opportunities so you can calm your child down if the dance lessons are getting too hyper. The dance lessons - what? - yup, dance lessons really are geared for this age and the kids are engaged from start to end. It's so much fun! They've got this nailed. Even better, they are so accommodating as to what you want to do and even accommodate varying levels of participation for the parents. That's so awesome. If you don't want to be in the dance studio amid screaming kids, no problem! You can watch on big-screen tv's from the comfort of the front lounge! If you want to be right in there, no problem! Want to self-cater? No problem! Clean up? No problem! I was really thankful for that as we are so used to cleaning up wherever we go (and I think all parents should) but this place was glad to help. We hired an adult "princess" to entertain and awe the party. It made it even better and this place was again, no problem. It's such an easy and welcoming place that meets so many needs and takes so much off your plate. I love them just for this party! The men's bathroom has a decent surface for diaper changes. Not sure about the women's. (Always a consideration.) We will be back. I daresay that we're not coming back just for the party space but because we were so impressed that we think this will also be a great dance lesson place for a weekend activity with quality, caring, organized, and patient learning. They do adult lessons as well. It's a positive, happy place. Highly recommended! read more

Would not honor Groupon and tried to swindle us into overpaying. Thankfully, Groupon refunded our money. Beware of their deceptive business practice of participating in Groupon and then making up rules after the fact! read more

2018 update: no benches or seats for anyone to sit and wait for their very young kids in class in the adjacent studio, required $30 logo leotards to color coordinate beginning ballet (which were mandatory but never in stock), and teachers who didn't show up. Anyway, we're not here anymore. Maybe others will have a better experience than we did. read more

Let me say, up front, that my daughter did not come to this studio as a beginning dancer. She is a dancer who has had wide experience in her dance genre with some incredible instructors in the Pacific Northwest prior to coming here. Two years ago we moved to TX, and after a "6-months prior to moving" search for an appropriate dance instructor for our daughter, we ended up driving almost 2 hours away to Balance Dance Studio in Austin because the belly dance instructor there was exactly what she needed. At the time, my then-14-year-old daughter was told she could pay the adult class rate of $120 for a 10-class card because the class she was attending was considered an adult class. I took class with her at the same rate. Even though we had issue with the number of unsupervised grade school dancers running and tearing around amuck in this studio, and the occasional hip-hop music that you could heard blasting 2 or 3 studios away, we genuinely loved the instruction there. Amara and Tatianna are incredibly gifted. I recommend them fully. Fast forward 2 years. End of August 2016. My daughter returned from a summer of studying her dance form in Seattle. We went in to get her a new 10-class card and were told that she is required to pay the Youth rate because she is 16. Are you ready for this? YOUTH RATE IS $75 A MONTH. You read that right. A MONTH. That's almost TWICE what we had been paying for the past two years. Let's do the math: Prior 2 years' rate: works out to about $48/month -- $12 Per Class Youth Rate: $75/month - $18.75 Per Class Youth Drop In Rate - $17 Per Class The only "concessions" the studio owner offered us were: "Your daughter can pay a drop in rate if you want to use up the rest of your class card." Ummm.....NO. The only reason I *had* a class card in the first place was because of my daughter. I dance a completely different style. Why would I want to use up a class card, plus pay more for my daughter to attend? "Well, if she does that production (there is a possibility she may be involved in a production elsewhere for 6 weeks), we'll just put a freeze on her account." Really? So I did some looking at just about every single studio in the Austin area (and beyond) and Youth rates vs. Adult rates. I have yet to find another studio that charges such a huge discrepancy. In fact, large professional studios who are home to big-name international belly dancers as instructors don't charge this outrageous amount ($75/month), and we know several of them across Texas and the country. Adults and Youth pay the same price, as they are in the same class. When there is a separation of price for classes, it is only by $1-2, and Youth is only up to age 16. Correct solution to this problem? Studio owner should have said, "Oh, gee. She's been paying Adult for two years? Well, typically Youth is $75/month, but since there was some confusion somewhere down the line, we'll just go ahead and honor what you've been paying." It's that simple. And since there is a logged history of this payment plan for two years, there is no "making stuff up" on our end. Here's the situation that now exists for Balance: Studio is now out money from two customers, and a young dancer who, when inquiring at other studios, states upfront: "The only reason I'm seeking another studio is because Balance wanted me to pay double the price of everyone else in my class because...I'm 16. What's your policy?" Let me say again: I have absolutely no issues with the 2 belly dance instructors we have studied with at this studio. They are wonderful. They are talented. They definitely know how to teach and both do it well. We also understand that they are employees of this studio and are stuck. Until this moment we were happy with where we were going, and, even though the drive could be brutal (almost 2 hours one way, complete with rush hour traffic) and several of the children there left unsupervised to run all over the place, we had no qualms about making the drive or dealing with those kids. We would dance again with these instructors in a heartbeat....at different location. In the end, what we do not have patience for is a studio owner who uses Youth status (which most dancers are) as a convenient way to take quite a bit of money from their parents. read more

I look forward to the Hip Hop Cardio classes each week. It's so fun! The instructors make it a safe environment to get a workout while not taking yourself too seriously:). Recommend for all levels. read more

My toddler started combo classes here in January and she is learning so much from her fabulous teacher Miss Danielle! Not only does she love attending class, but she is also developing dance vocabulary and can demonstrate many basic movements and choreography. Beyond dance skills, her class is teaching her music appreciation and recognition of tempo and rhythm. I thoroughly enjoy listening to her sing the songs from class or watch her suggest movements that would be appropriate for the mood and tempo of songs she hears on the radio. What a great introduction to formal dance instruction! I can't wait to see how she grows as a dancer in this studio in the years to come. Couldn't recommend it more. read more

I've worked at Balance since the beginning and it is truly a place where dance training and character traits are taught hand-in-hand. From the ownership to the youngest student, this is a place where innovation, quality education, inclusion, and community happens. Grateful to call Balance my dance family :) McKenna C. read more

I got a 15 class Groupon and mostly took the hip hop class with Erick. I had a great time! At first, it's super intimidating and almost embarrassing because most people are not good when they first start. But I powered through because I love dancing and it's a great exercise (since I refuse to go to the gym). Erick is a fantastic teacher, his choreography looks difficult but he's great at showing you the steps. So if you try your best, then you'll surprise yourself with how well you learn the dance moves. With each class, I got better and had more fun. By the time I finished off my Groupon, I was in love with the class. The regular class prices are comparable to other dance studios. I also took a modern class here, it was great. Nothing bad to say about this studio. You should definitely try it out :) read more

We tried this place over the summer because the studio where my daughter normally takes classes (Ballet Austin) doesn't have anything available for her age (11) over the summer months. It was the first time we had ever gone to a different studio despite her having danced for the past 8 years. Wow, what an experience! While at first I was impressed by the facility (lots of studios, many with amazing views of the greenbelt, and THREE very nice different waiting areas for parents) I was soon disappointed by the quality of the instruction. It rarely looked as though the instructors had prepared anything for class (she was taking Jazz) and often they did the same choreography from one week to the next in such a way that I swear the teacher just didn't realize she had already taught them those moves the week before. Teachers spent 30 min of the 60 min class stretching most days, which was also annoying. I understand that stretching is important but maybe 10 min would be enough? At Ballet Austin they are told to stretch on their own time and warm up doing actual ballet rather than stretching. I will admit that I am NOT a dancer and have never had dance training. But I do run a business and I feel like I know when people are flying by the seat of their pants. My daughter had different instructors week to week and it really seemed like the whole thing was just thrown together. I know she is only 11 but since this is not the cheapest place in town I wish they would have taken the kids Jazz class a bit more seriously. They are also very strict about their make-up policy but failed to explain that to me when I bought the 6 week class. In fact I had told the girl at the front that I knew my daughter would miss 2 weeks because of visiting family and I was told this was "no problem" because she could "take make up classes". Only when we talked to the owner several weeks later she said that my daughter could only make up one week because the other missed class had been over 4 weeks ago and that was the limit. I was not a happy camper. It was clear that they had not taken the time to train their front desk person, who most of the time we saw chatting with her other 19'ish year old friend who sat at the desk with her. It seemed more of a social experience than a work environment. Again, not great marks on the organizational side of things. read more

I have been going to Zumba classes here for the past six weeks. I started coming because of an Amazon Local special, but I am hooked now. Corley is a fun and energetic teacher, and she makes the class very welcoming for newcomers. I am hooked on this class because it is a great workout, and I really enjoy the variety it adds to my workout routine. I highly recommend the studio. read more

I took a modern dance class here last week. Although the building isn't quite finished yet, it is already an amazing facility. The floors and mirrors are beautiful, and the teaching staff is extremely well-qualified. The only downside is that one class cost me $17. If they were to have a special on classes, I would definitely keep going. Otherwise, I can't afford it. read more

This is the best dance studio in SW Austin, hands down. They have a huge variety of classes and the instructors are true professionals. You and/or your child will learn so much here. Highly recommend. read more

Just finished my first class here and it was great!!! I love dancing and found a great groupon. The studios are fantastic and the lounge areas are amazing. Excited to go back tomorrow :) read more

As an adult looking for a fun contemporary dance class I had an amazing experience at Balance dance studio. The administration was friendly and encouraging. The class was mostly young dancers, which as intimidating at first, but they were kind, respectful and inspiring. It was so fun to watch their talent, energy and the way they encouraged and supported one another. The teacher, Michelle, was wonderful and taught a fun and adaptable across the floor and combination. I cannot wait to go back. I'd highly recommend this dance studio! read more

I bought a groupon to try out a few dance classes. Zumba has been fantastic. The class is small and it's easy to sign up online. I've tried other classes which were fun but not so much my style. It seems like there's a good variety for every level. The buildings are nice and I never have trouble finding parking spot. read more

I had no idea what to expect! I have been wanting to take dance lessons with my wife as we love to dance together. I bought a Groupon for Balance Dance Studios for my wife and was a bit surprised when she signed us up for a Hip Hop class. Eric, our instructor was really good! He was high energy and focused and kept the class going at a great pace the entire hour. And yes, I am rekindling my relationship with a few muscles I have not been talking to for a while! We will be back! read more

I have been taking yoga classes at balance for over a year and they are exactly what I need being a runner who needs a good stretch. The instructor pays attention to everyone in the class making sure we are using proper form. The studio is beautiful and the owner gave me a free coffee after my class. My kids have also been in the dance program and really enjoyed the classes. read more

Great facility and teachers. The waiting area is a great place to hang out and get caught up on emails while the kids are finishing their classes. I love the variety of classes that the offer. Everything from dance to yoga for athletes. read more

Such a gorgeous facility - truly one of the BEST in Austin! More importantly the staff really are what sets this studio apart. They make every dancer feel loved and welcome. Each of them takes the time to connect with the students on a personal level. The support and encouragement that the balance team gives out clearly shows that the leadership is focused on ensuring that the experience in this studio is truly about balance. Not just in dance and fitness, but in academics, personal development and the overall experience each dancer has while they are in this environment. read more

We have been going to Balance Dance Studios for 2 years. Very professional. Exceptional teachers! My daughter loves going here and her dancing has improved dramatically. Great community. Beautiful space. read more

So grateful to have found this studio for my daughter. Her previous studio was super focused on their company/teams, and had very little to offer for teens at an intermediate level. Balance has lots of options in this category and so far my daughter LOVES all the classes and the teachers! I took gave 4 stars vs 5 just because the waiting areas seem to be overrun with unruly kids (screaming, tearing thru the lobby, jumping up and down on the furniture, regardless of who is sitting there!!) any time I'm there waiting. read more

My daughter is taking the Combo Youth Class (Ballet/Tap) for 5-6 year olds and I must say...SHE LOVES IT!! Her teacher/coach, Krista, is amazing with these little ones! She is very patient and firm and teaches them really, really well! I love how she even teaches them the french ballet terms! My daughter comes home speaking french and practicing ballet! The entire staff at Balance is so incredibly nice, very accommodating to moms, and the wait area for moms is great too! I just love this place and LOVE that my daughter is turning in to a shining, beautiful dancer! Thanks, Balance Dance Studios! read more

My almost 3-year-old son started taking the 2-3 combo class in October after I purchased a 4 class groupon deal, and we never left! Ms. Danielle has such compassion and patience with this group of little ones, and she makes it fun! The class sizes are small enough so that every child gets help, and he's actually learning classical dance moves and referring to them with the correct names! Dance provides a competition free way for kids to build skills, balance, and coordination. We've loved our time at Balance and hope to keep dancing for years to come!! read more

I can't say enough good things about Miss Jen! My 3 year old started class at the beginning of summer, and my 2 year old just started this fall. Both girls love the combo class, and I like being able to watch them in the lounge area on the tv. My 3 year old knows some basic dance terms and how to do basic dance moves. Miss Jen is so patient with all of the kids, and my girls look forward to class every week. read more

What a beautiful location with an amazing atmosphere! I not only teach here but I also have my 3 (hopefully someday 4) daughters here and a part of the dance team. I couldn't have asked for better co-workers or a better boss. The training is impeccable with teachers who truly know what they are doing and have a passion not just for dance but for these children as well. What a nurturing and professional environment. I can't think of any other place I'd want to call my second home. read more

Our daughter attended dance and acrobat classes at Balance and loved the personal attention. She progressed rapidly and enjoyed what she was learning. The facility is excellent and the staff is very helpful. After our daughter got us in the door to Balance, we have also attended adult Yoga/Pilates classes and were equally impressed with the facility and instruction. read more

Do you have Balance in your life? If not, you better get some! I went to Balance Dance Studios Friday, Aug 31 for a tour and ran into my sweet friend, Sara Schultz. I asked her why she was there, and she informed me that she has been teaching a Holy Yoga class there 3x week since June. The name of the class sounded like an oxymoron to me. She gave me an overview and explained that the class was Christ-centered. She uses scripture reading, instrumental Christian music and prayer during the class. She invited me to come for a trial class. So, I did. It was wonderful! Very relaxing and calming. I've never been interested in Yoga b/c of personal convictions. She said that the word Yoga means "yoked". I love the thought of being yoked to Christ, so don't get caught up with the word "yoga", and go check it out for yourselves. read more

My daughter has been taking dance classes at Balance Dance Studio for about 3 years. She has wonderful experiences in her classes and with the front desk staff. We are very fortunate to have found a lovely talented studio to be part of. Her growth as a dancer and individual are definitely a reflection of the talent, dedication, and compassion shown regularly at the studio. The instructors at this studio are amazing. My daughter started with one ballet class and is now taking several. I highly recommend your family visit the studio and give it a try. I have one happy dancer! read more

I'm a mother of two daughters ages 9 and 6. My older daughter is in the dance company (started with recreational classes) and my younger one takes regular recreational classes. They are both receiving exceptional dance training. I grew up dancing and I would never think about taking them anywhere else for dance classes. read more

Wonderful staff and great premises with space for all to visit and learn a variety of dances. Studio space is beautifully designed and affordable. We have had the best time teaching in this space. Thanks everyone! read more

I spent some time over the summer looking for a perfect place for my almost 4 yr. old to start taking dance and WE FOUND IT! The brand new Balance Dance Studio was everything that a friend told me it was. Great location, beautifully remodeled facility, comparable in price, friendly/helpful staff and some of the best teachers. I wanted her to have a fun and positive first experience with dance class because I knew that she would love it and SHE DOES! It was not at all hard to find a date & time that works for our busy schedule. One of my favorite things about Balance is that I send my daughter to class and then I can sit in the lobby and watch her on a big flat screen TV without having to peek in the window to watch! They are also very accommodating to my younger daughter that isn't quite ready for dance but likes to stay and color, read books and play the Wii that is in the lobby. My daughter loves going and looks forward to her combo class every week! read more

Kathleen Ward is absolutely a saving grace in the world of dance. A true Ballet lover. I did quite a bit of research on the studio and many others before choosing this one. I chose the studio mostly after doing research on the teachers and hearing wonderful things from many friends at the Texas Ballet Conservatory and Ballet Austin about Kathleen Ward. It's a young studio, and I didn't like that because from my own experience younger studios tend to be a bit disorganized. They are still learning and that's okay. I have experience with quite a few teachers and while I don't have anything bad to say, I have to really highlight the fact that as a person who really loves the classic styles of dance, and as a parent who wants their child to learn true ballet techniques, Kathleen Ward is absolutely amazing. My family has a good dance background and I wanted to find someone who really has a passion for ballet and wanted to see their students really learning true ballet techniques. Right now the studio only has Kathleen teaching younger girls, but I would love for my daughter to have the opportunity to train with Kathleen as she gets older. I think the studio would really benefit from adding some more Pre-Ballet and Ballet classes with Kathleen, not to mention that dancers such as my daughter would definitely benefit from doing so. My daughter absolutely adores her and I really appreciate her passion and love of ballet. I like that she doesn't push her dancers too far and that she allows them to really develop individual techniques before pushing them to do moves that are far ahead of their current ability. She pays careful attention to each individual dancers strengths and weaknesses. Hands down, if you are seeking out an instructor for your son or daughter to learn true to Ballet techniques, take him/her to Kathleen at balance. read more