My daughter has been dancing at Carousel for nearly five years, and our experience has been nothing but positive. Some of the negative reviews, particularly those with one or two stars, appear to come from individuals with personal grievances or exaggerated complaints. They simply don't reflect the reality we've experienced. Carousel is a disciplined and focused studio that offers serious dance training. This is not a recreational center or casual after-school program--it's a place for students who are committed to developing their craft. The instruction is exceptional, with a strong emphasis on proper technique that, in my opinion, is unmatched in this area. Importantly, the environment is also healthy and supportive. In the five years we've been at the studio, I've never once heard a teacher make a negative comment about a dancer's body or weight. On the contrary, Natalie teaches dancers how to fuel their bodies properly for training and often encourages healthier choices--like skipping sugary snacks or drinks--purely from a nutritional standpoint, not as criticism. It's always been about education, not shame. She IS tough but also loving and the kids idolize her and want to impress her. In fact most of the teachers are firm but nurturing. They genuinely care about each student and push them to be their best. My daughter was not on the company her first year, but she was always treated with respect and never made to feel less than others. Now that she is on the company, she is held to higher standards and expected to set an example for younger dancers, which we fully support. Unlike many studios, Carousel has very little of the typical "dance mom" drama. The families here are supportive, and the dancers are inclusive and kind. My daughter has built friendships both on and off company, and there's a real sense of community. At recitals, dancers who are not on the company are still given opportunities to shine. I recently attended the recital, and I saw numerous non-company dancers featured in solos and highlighted performances, directly contradicting the claims that only company members are showcased. Before finding Carousel, we briefly attended Dance Dimensions. Despite attending for two weeks, my then 10-year-old daughter was never included or welcomed by the other dancers. In contrast, on her first day at Carousel, several girls immediately invited her to join them and made her feel at home. This studio isn't the right fit for every dancer--but that's part of its strength. Carousel values dedication, work ethic, and respect. Students who embrace those values will thrive. Karen and Natalie, the directors, are passionate about what they do and committed to developing strong, technically proficient dancers. They prioritize quality over quantity and are not interested in simply filling spots. THIS IS KEY. If your kid works hard, makes dance a priority, has a good attitude and is kind.... and YOU are not difficult.... your child will do wonderfully here. Additionally, Carousel is extremely mindful of cost. Compared to other studios in the area, it is significantly more affordable. Claims that it's "all about the money" are completely unfounded in my experience. They actively look for ways to reduce financial strain on families--recycling costumes, keeping competitions local, and organizing fundraisers. I've consistently found that they do everything they can to help families manage expenses. I never feel pressured to buy anything I don't want. I appreciate the drop in classes for younger kids so that if we skip I am not throwing away money. Lastly, my younger child takes recreational classes at Carousel and absolutely loves it. The teachers are kind, patient, and age-appropriate, and I've never witnessed any harshness or negativity toward younger dancers. In short, if you're seeking a studio that offers exceptional dance training in a respectful, supportive, and disciplined environment, I wholeheartedly recommend Carousel. It's been a wonderful experience for both of my children and our entire family. Be on time, be dressed appropriately and come with a good attitude and work ethic and your kid will be fine. read more

My Granddaughter has been going there for many years. She truly enjoys it. They have a performance every year, usually at the Performing Arts center in Thousand oaks. They also have a dance company which has competitions in many cities nationwide. read more

Our daughter goes here. We are very happy with the studio; she loves going and looks forward to Tuesdays.

I am just shocked and appalled that the dance instructor Rebecca speaks to her students like she does. I understand the need for strict rule enforcement but this behavior is borderline abusive. She yells and makes them feel horrible for not knowing the steps. Worse than that, Karen Willis the owner allows it and is always yelling at the kids herself. Karen is constantly telling the students to watch their weight and that they can't gain weight or they won't be able to dance. It's just ridiculous. Not sure how much longer we will stay when there are so many other dance school choices that actually care about the students like people instead of just a $ sign. Save your child from a bad situation. Going here would be a HUGE mistake!!! Maybe if enough of us speak up things might change or they could be well on their way to loosing the business. read more

My 4 year old daughter is in her second year here. Last year she did ballet, this year it's tap dance. We've tried other studios in the area and we think that this is the best. I like the organization and strict rules that are enforced. All the girls are identically uniformed. Doors are closed once class starts - no late comers allowed. The older girls have won numerous awards at national competitions. read more

Carousel Dance Studio - Dance Schools Near Me - West Hills, California

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We love this studio! My daughter loves all of her teachers and is learning so much. It's a no-nonsense, proper dance studio and not a loosey goosey/ just for fun kind of place. But all the kids still have fun! I highly recommend Carousel. read more

Seriously... Just say no! Unless you're a very sad mother trying to live through your child for your failed childhood dreams don't have your kid go here. Many MANY MANY years ago Carousel was a great studio if you wanted to learn how to dance and they won first in almost every competition they did. However, the competition team became more about who had the best leotard rather than who had the best feet a long time ago. Here's a helpful tip kids: if you want to be on their competition team then just make sure your mom is the ruler of butt kissing. Being on the competition team is not about being a good dancer anymore for Carousel it's about who's mom can kiss the most a** to Karen, the owner. Also, the teachers, at least when I was there were so rude to the kids especially the teachers who were friends with the owners daughter. I see some of them are still there... Seriously, get a life, move on. Does it make you feel good to yell at young children?!?! I'm not speaking from a bitter place, I was a good dancer (especially in ballet) although I wasn't on the competition team I was asked to audition several times but never did. The owners daughter even asked my mom herself if she would let me audition but I never wanted to be apart of that stuck up crowd, just wasn't my thing. I was always treated fairly I feel as far as moving forward in levels but I still feel this studio is no place for a child. Plus Carousel isn't nearly as good as they use to be and they are all about money and who can be the best buddy buddy with Karen, it's so pathetic. Go somewhere else, unless you're a desperate mother trying to live through your kid. read more

We love Carousel Dance Studio they have program called I Dance for special needs kids .All they doing is great for community!!

My daughter has attended the school since 3 or 4 years old, and thanks to great teacher like Ms. Michelle, Ms. Susan, Ms. Rebecca, Ms. Natalie and Ms. Karen, she continues to love and enjoy dance of all different categories. Ms. Chelsea who looks after the students (and parents) is not only a great organizer and communicator, but also a knowledgeable dancer herself! Many of the older students serve as role models for the younger girls and the experience has been nothing but positive in the 10 or so years. Teachers here are not only teaching dance but also enforce discipline and ethics, and this may take some adjusting to for those that are not, but it is with love and care for the students as far as I can tell. read more

Very very happy for my 6 year old. They are professional and they still discipline and commitment to the dancers. The teachers are warm and caring. We feel fortunate that our daughter can be part if this studio. read more

Best experience my daughter has had since moving to California from the east coast! This is year 7 and she still loves it!!

I went here for 12 years along with my siblings. There is no doubt that this is the place to learn how to dance. Carousel is very serious about dancing and some of the greatest choreography has been created at this studio. However, the attitude of the teachers and the company girls was down right unacceptable. My siblings and I experienced unfair treatment because we never joined the competition team. It was not " good enough" that we took six classes a week and attended for 12 years. The owner of the studio would never say hello after we left the studio. I would not recommend sending your child here unless you are a parent with lots of extra time on your hands to kiss butt to the owner and staff and have LOTS of money so your child will be able to keep up with the rest of the spoiled and mean children that attend. Carousel is a self esteem destroyer. I'm now almost 30 years old and I can still remember how bad I'd feel attending class at Carousel. I now teach dance on my own and I could not be happier. read more

I danced at this studio for 13 years. It teaches you great discipline and wonderful technique. My favorite time of year was the month leading up to the recital in June. All the teachers have great experience and can teach multiple genres of dance. I took ballet, tap, and jazz. They are very talented in ballet so it ended up being my favorite. read more

My daughter has been dancing at Carasoul since she was three. If you are looking for a professional caring studio that has a strong ballet base you've found it! These instructors truly care about the children, and are wonderful mentors! This is no a play gym! It's a serious studio! My daughter is not on company and is treated the same as all the other girls. Sounds like there have been some bitter dancers making bad reviews. We have never had that experience, and we've been here for 9 years. read more

We have just finished up our 2nd year at Carousel. My 6 year old loves it and dances all over the place. She has 2 ballet classes and also takes one of the "drop in" classes that are more like pay as you go and don't require a commitment. Instructors provide just the right amount of challenge to promote forward growth while building confidence. The recitals are way over the top! Very impressive. Looking forward to more. read more

this is my daughter's fifth year at carousel. we keep coming back because it is a very professional, serious dance studio with great teachers and staff. my child only takes ballet; she has never been pressured into taking more classes and has always been treated with respect there. other families choose to take more classes or join the dance company, which is more of a time/money commitment. either way, carousel gives quality instruction at a fair price and their end of the year show is always wonderful. read more

My daughter has danced for 13 years at Carousel and its an amazing program! All teachers have high standards for classroom behaviors, appearance and work habits! If you are interested in fostering these behaviors in your children this is the dance school for you! read more

My daughter has been here for two years and I'm so impressed by her focus and commitment to dance. They do a good job instilling confidence, grace and poise. This is a top-notch studio. read more

I have been dancing at carousel for 6 years and it is an amazing place! Carousel is not just a dance school but a 2nd home to me. Carousel has not just taught me to dance but many other important life lessons, such as respect and dedication. The dancers and teachers are like my family. The older girls who attend this wonderful dance school are such amazing role models and the little kids are just so much fun to be around. Carousel is a place where you can learn amazing technique and still have a great time. This dance studio is a place where you can escape from your crazy life and just let go and have fun. If you are looking to join an amazing dance school with amazing people than carousel is place for you! :) read more

Carousel is the ultimate dichotomy. If you want your child to experience dance at a young age and receive world class instruction in a loving, caring and supportive environment, Carousel is DEFINITELY the place for you. Michele Marco is the Pre-School Director and is truly an angel among us. You could not ask for a better dance instructor and guide for your young child as she/he learn the beautiful art of dance. Unfortunately, that all too soon comes to an end. Once your child ages out of the "pre-school", you are no longer within Michele's domain and the studio takes a marked turn for the worse. The instruction of the older girls is led by Karen Willes, the studio owner, and her daughter Natalie, who primarily focus on their "company dancers" (competition team). Within this select group of dancers, only a very small number (usually 2-3) are featured and promoted. The rest of the company girls, who each pay thousands of $$ annually to be part of the touring group, are treated as basic support for the featured few. Additionally, Karen and Natalie could care less about anything in your life besides dance. In other words, if family, god, school, friends and dance are your top 5, Karen and Natalie view dance as #1 and the others tie for 5th. My daughter's perfect pre-school experience was essentially ruined beyond belief by the treatment and attitude of Karen and Natalie. Because of that, my daughter ultimately left the studio and is so much happier at her new dance studio. The really unfortunate part is that older girls do get to experience some really terrific teachers such as Susan, Ashley, Roman and others, but all of that gets tainted by the attitude and treatment of Karen and Natalie. Both of them are so talented, too, but all that goes right out the window when you take into account their consideration, compassion, and attitude towards most of the girls and their parents. Sadly, the review written by Sada A. below is probably one that could be written by dozens and dozens of other girls who experienced the same thing. In fact, I'm aware of at least 2 dancers that were the "featured" stars of the company troupe who were subsequently treated like garbage by Karen and Natalie after they stepped away. This is so sad for this studio because it doesn't have to be like that. If Carousel was only a pre-school studio run by Michele Marco, this rating would be 5-stars. If Carousel was only the regular studio for older girls, this rating would be 1-star. read more

I have been at Carousel Dance Studio since I was 4 years old, and consider this amazing place to be my second home. I learned many valuable lessons that I can apply to my life outside of dance as well. Carousel Dance Studio is a place where I can leave my chaotic life and let my imagination run free. All the amazing teachers who I have been honored to learn from encourage and keep me wanting to become a better dancer, because of them I am always wanting to try harder. I have always been pleased growing up in the peaceful yet disciplined environment that Miss Karen and the rest of the staff has created. Many amazing memories have been created at my second home with my loving friends and teachers. read more

Hi, I'm a current student at Carousel and I think that at times it can be a good studio. I don't tell anyone but people make fun of me when we change in the dressing room and my dance classmates, make fun of me in class to and the teachers just don't care. One teacher Rebecca isn't the nicest teacher in the world she yells at us all the time and sometimes makes me feel really bad. So if ur looking to take an occasional class here and there this is the place to do it, but not a permanent place. read more