I came here looking to buy some new salsa dancing shoes. I was pleasantly surprised at the selection they had. Do not believe the previous reviews from years ago that said they only have children's shoes. They certainly have updated their stock and they have many selections of women's and men's dancing shoes. You can see some of my pictures for reference. The person working there was very friendly and helped me immediately. I came at a good time as I was the only person in the store (around 4 PM on a weekday). She told me her recommendations and what I should look for and said to pick out whatever design I like and then she would get the right sizes for me in the back. I had to try a couple of sizes to find the best fit and she was very patient and helpful. (My dance shoe size turned out to be 1 size bigger than my normal shoe size-not sure if that's typical or not) I liked how there's a little mirror and stage area where you can try on your new shoes and do the spins and moves that your dancing shoes will take you all night. It didn't take very long for me to walk out of there with a brand new pair of salsa dancing shoes, and I am in love with them. The prices are very reasonable even compared to online vendors and if you buy them here you'll be supporting a local neighborhood store. It's definitely a quaint little place with lots of goodies inside, so come check it out. I certainly will recommend this to friends and family who are getting into dancing. read more

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Very helpful. I called in first to ask if they had the social dancing shoes I had in my size. I left a message, and they called me back quickly. In the store the salesperson was very helpful and had us try on several sizes to get the best fit. They also offered special ordering if a size was not going to work out. Its a small store and selection is limited compared to on-line, but it is great to be able to support small local business. read more

After years of buying tap shoes for our son here, we returned (walking an hour round trip) to find they couldn't help him with his adult feet. He does require wide shoes, which we fully expected to special order - but the only suggestion the person working that day made was to check back in about three months or try another store. It seemed like the emphasis here is on ballet clothes and shoes, and that tap wasn't really their concern or focus. We found DanceTrendz in Auburn, which was more than happy to special order what we needed and got it to us in about a week. read more

This is a fantastic little jewel box of a store, with a wide array of product for all ages, at more reasonable prices than I've seen at most dance shops. I was fit for a pair of pointe shoes and the fitter was attentive, detailed, and took as much time as I needed. When I had to return an item via mail, they were efficient and gracious in processing a refund, which I appreciated to no end. This is a great shop I'll be returning to anytime I am in Seattle, I highly recommend it! read more

The new corner space (5267 University Way) is gorgeous! Much brighter and more organized!

I needed a pair of tap shoes. The attendant was very helpful and seemed genuinely interested in my new tap hobby. I was able to quickly find the shoe and size I needed. read more

I have been buying shoes and clothing here for my wife, and my daughter for decades, but sadly the last visit was a complete bust. My wife and I went looking for a pair of dance shoes for her. We bought the last pair at this store and thought it made sense to go back and have them order for us again. With two people working and two customers in the store you think you might be able to get some help but we left feeling like we were imposing on the two young women by asking them to order a pair of shoes. I know this place is often slammed getting the young dancers outfitted, not the case here the store was empty. The response was we could order them for you, but you should just go to the store in Lynnwood, they can order them too (This was at 4PM on a Thursday, not driving to Lynnwood). There was a complete lack of interest in helping us get the product we needed. My wife and I felt like it was just to much bother to try and help us. We both left the store shaking our heads. I will probably just shop online from now on rather than drive across town for such a total lack of interest from CenterStage. read more

Not much for the adult shopper here - they carried mostly children sizes. The shop is messy and has poor air circulation, was extremely stuffy and hot when I visited. read more

Wow wow wow. After years of being able to order dance supplies online, we needed to visit Centerstage for the initial pointe shoe fitting. Not sure what to expect, Roxanne handled the whole thing- it's quite a process- so expertly, our daughter felt really heard and supported and confident about her choice. We can't say enough great things about Roxanne and Centerstage. We're so happy I am leaving this review within minutes of arriving home. We'll be heading there from now on before we order online. read more

We just had a fantastic pointe fitting with Riley. They were so patient and knowledgeable, and really took time making sure we had the right fit. Such a great shop. read more

I bought a pair of Gaynor Mindens here. These the the most expensive pointe shoes out there. The girl was very nice in helping me size them and I was nice enough to actually by them from the store instead of hoping online and saving myself $20. While she was ringing me up she asked if I needed elastic and ribbon, I said yes. She gave me this crappy thin ribbon that wasn't even Gaynor but Capezio and when I went back to ask her about it she didn't offer to refund me or anything. Not cool. read more

I just stopped in there today to get a dance top. They are mostly limited to ballet clothes and shoes. It is small and very close quarters. 1 staff was helping young girls and their Moms and another was doing smemthing to the window. I didn't even get a greeting. read more

My boyfriend's little cousin from Hawaii was coming to town for a week and a half and she wanted to shop for some new point shoes (since it's much cheaper to get them here than in Hawaii). Luckily, my boyfriend knew of this store and told me to take his cousin here. I also managed to look at the reviews here on Yelp on this store so we decided to go here on a Tuesday. The three of us managed to find street parking right outside the store. How lucky! On top of that, we were the only customers so my boyfriend's cousin got all the help she needed. She tried on several different brands of point shoes, which I can't even recall. I was so glad that the people who work there were very knowledgeable. They were able to tell my boyfriend's cousin that the point shoes didn't look right, feel right, etc as she put different pairs on that they gave her to try on. Luckily we got there when we did. Once we were ready to pay and head out, the store got busy and really crowded. Overall, I believe my boyfriend's cousin was very happy and will probably be coming back here for another pair when she visits Seattle again. read more

Excellent service. I haven't bought dancewear in a meatspace store in years, but I started belly dancing again and have been taking a hip-hop fusion class recently. I came into Centerstage a total n00b and was given a thorough run-down of all of my foot protection options by the store's owner. She helped me find the best choice for my narrow feet and was super friendly even when I asked silly questions. :) I left with glow-in-the-dark skull FootUndies, the most ridiculous blue rose hairclip, and a huge smile on my face. I will definitely be a repeat customer at Centerstage! read more

The selection here is definitely ballet focused, but that's ok since that I was looking specifically for leotards, tights and slippers for my young daughter. It was nice to be able to go to this store and get fitted since much of the sizing was confusing for me when I was initially looking online. It is an extensive selection and they carry a good inventory of popular items. The staff here is very friendly and knowledgeable. They are especially great with the kids. Unfortunately, if both people are already helping customers, you will need to wait even if you want to simply get your purchases rung up. I suppose that is a good thing when you're the person being helped, but sucks for the person there who is there to pick up one item or knows exactly what they want. Still, if you're shopping and unsure, the staff here will take their time with you. There is usually ample street parking available on this block of University Ave so I didn't have any trouble finding parking even on a busy afternoon. read more

I've had a great experience both times I've come in- once for jazz sneakers and the second for leotards. The staff here is very knowledgeable on footwear, and they were incredibly patient with each of us. There's a nice sense of camaraderie amongst customers and staff. It's always great to be helped by friendly, personable people, especially Kelsey and Anna. I've had to exchange a leotard and they were more than understanding, and allowed me to return it even though I lost the receipt. Beautiful selection of leotards, I should add. I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for dance gear. I'll definitely be back. read more

I am taking "beginning ballet for adults" through UW experimental college (very good!!) and they are not far from this store- of course I walked over to get some ballet slippers- the girl was very helpful- the store is smaller then i expected but seems very well stocked. If I decide I want more ballet stuff- this will be the place! I have no idea if it is overpriced...but good quick service... read more

A group of other performers and myself were on a search for ballet attire for an upcoming performance. However, in trying to work with different schedules, only one day was going to work out for us, which was a Sunday. Most dance stores aren't open on Sundays, but we were so thankful to find this place was! Located up in the University District, street parking was fairly easy to find. We arrived when they opened and the two ladies assisting us were very nice, knowledgeable and patient about any questions we had, such as what type of shoes should we get, leotard sizes, etc. There was a decent selection of leotards there, and thankfully, we were able to find some that worked for our different body types. The store is a bit on the small side, and has only two fitting rooms. So needless to say, it got interesting trying on leotards with a group of four as more customers came in! Everyone though was very patient with us! All in all, I would come to this store again if I'm in need of any dance attire/shoes and it's the weekend. read more

Just okay if you know what you're looking for, e.g. exact make of pointe shoe. Shoe fitting help is inconsistent but generally not the best for novices, depending on who's on duty that day. Prices on some pointe models are about 30% higher than outside-region and online shops, after charging for ribbons & elastics, which are often gratis at other shops. Update Jan. 2014: shop is in new location, a few blocks north from former site. Space is much larger and so a bit less cramped and cluttered; lighting is better. Shoe fitting floor-barre-mirror only slightly larger, still too small and congested with insufficient seating. Store understaffed for pointe shoe fitting on one Sunday visit; staff seemed harried and apologetic for clutter and chaos. We left feeling that our next visit would be as a last resort. If you're desperate, call ahead if you need a particular item--it has happened more than once that a pointe model was on the shelf at Center Stage when other Seattle Metro shops were out of stock. read more

We were sent here by the Artistic Director of a community theatre for a play he's in. They didn't carry a lot of men's shoes in his size, which was disappointing. The director also asked that everyone get a dance belt--and they didn't have his size in that, either. I realize men in their 40's aren't exactly their central customer, but it was odd that we were sent here if they didn't have the things he wanted or needed. read more

When the melodies of Arabic music swirl through your head and the desire comes over you to dance with transparent veils and cymbals on your fingers then this is the store to glide towards. Outfits, shoes, dancing supplies for more than just Middle Eastern Dance and people who will take the time to help you find just the right costume. Browse through someday and dream about those Arabian Nights! read more

I'm pretty certain this is the only dance store in Seattle. I have no idea why that is the case because there are a lot of dancers in Seattle. This store has the basics that you'll need, with decent service, but it's not a very exciting store. read more

Even if you're a novice at purchasing dance attire, this is an easy place with helpful staff to help you find the right items. Good spot for gifts for family members into dance! Prices were affordable for the leotard and skirt, and it'd be a fun shop to bring my niece to at some point too! read more

Center stage is a great place to shop for dance wear. Some dance shops that I looked at were to pricey. My daughter is going to take ballet so we looked online and the shop we had planned to go was really expensive. Our total was $51 for a leotard, ballet shoes, and tights. Where we looked online it was $64 plus tax for a pair of ballet shoes. I am very happy with this place. Most dance shops are really pricey and are not open on Sundays. I am so glad this was. I would HIGHLY recommend centerstage dance shop. read more

Got my ballroom dance shoes here a few years ago. Recently my husband and I came here to get him some shoes. They were very helpful and got exactly what we wanted. read more

This place has a great collection of dance shoes and other dance items. Too bad they didn't have the specific color and size I wanted.

Great that they're open on Sundays, staff is knowledgeable if a little cold. Love being able to try stuff on -prices are very competitive. Definitely will come again. read more

Overall I always have a decent experience at Centerstage Dance Shop. I have 2 girls who have tried out various dance classes/theatrical experiences over the past 15 years and I've always found what we've needed here. It's nice to have an option to try items on so that you know they'll fit, and the prices are only a little above Amazon. read more

If I could do 3.5 stars I would. Cons: Very small space, limited number of black leotards. Seems to only have thin straps, not many short, or long sleeved for adult sizes. Granted it is the start of "back to dance" season. I would advise to avoid saturdays as the space is small and if you get more than 5 customers in there it can get crowded. However, the staff are very personable and are happy to answer questions. I had to bring back a leotard for my hard to fit dancer who threw out the tags. The return/exchange was no problem. Will definitely go there again. read more

This is a very tiny dance store, but i was impressed with their stock. We usually go to The Dance Collection in Federal Way which is at least 3 times the size of this store, but my daughter didn't find a black leotard she really liked there (she is super-fussy). Centerstage had a rounder packed with black leotards, so I thought we were set. As she passed one after another, my hopes sank. Fortunately she saw 3 she liked, and one of them fit her well. Yay! As for the help ... when they are busy you have to be patient. I expect that. And when I call I try to be brief. The staff is there primarily for the customers in the store. As for the cramped quarters, they have to be in one of the highest rent districts in Puget Sound. If they had a bigger store I am sure the prices would be higher. I would definitely patronize the store again. read more

Their new space is very nice; lots more room based on earlier reviews. they have been there a week, so check it out. It was my first time and the sales person was very nice and knowledgeable. I didn't get anything technical like pointe shoes, but I enjoyed my experience. read more

I went in to find tap shoes. The sales person (Claire?) was very nice and extremely patient. I tried on several different shoes because of size issues and she had a number of helpful observations and comments about the shoes. They didn't have the right size but were getting an order soon. I got called today that the shoes are in! I can find them cheaper online but prefer to support local businesses. While I was there another sales person was spending time with 3 girls needing pointe shoes. She spent a great deal of time with them on fitting and trying different brands I was impressed with everyone's patience through the entire process. I guess if you have a ballerina daughter you go through this periodically. read more

The store has expanded and contains more dance supplies. it is still best for basic things and primarily children. I had difficulty with teen sizes or staff that could interpret what was there and how it would fit. I was there around the holidays so perhaps other times are better. read more

They were incredibly nice. I had a 2 year old getting all of her ballet clothes and a 3.5 year old needing tap shoes and new ballet shoes. They took lots of time fitting both of them, instead of just throwing some kids shoes on and calling it good. They were very accommodating to my 2 year old slightly redecorating while she waited for her older brother to get his tap shoes fitted. Overall a great experience. Just like with any dance store, it's important to look at prices and they vary immensely depending on brand. My 2 year old looks just as cute in her $16 leotard as she did when she tried on the $35 one. read more

I popped into Center Stage Dance Store the other day, and unbeknownst to me they were about ready close. I needed to buy some ballet slippers to take an adult ballet class that night, after being out of the dance circuit for some time. I ran into Vanessa Nuetzmann (a gorgeous dancer, if you ever get the chance to see her dance, you should), who works there, she and I had taken ballet together for years upon years and she instantly put me at ease about diving back into the arts. She stayed after the store had closed to make sure I had everything I needed for my class. I have since gone back and was helped by another sweet young lady who was just as helpful. I experienced very outstanding service. All of the supplies needed, I found there. read more

Every time I go in here, the salespeople seem annoyed that they have to do something. But my main complaint-I went in to get my first pair of pointe shoes in years (I took a break from dancing for awhile), and the fitting process was pretty awful. First of all, I felt completely judged by the salesperson, who seemed to be wondering why a 20 something would bother starting pointe again. Second of all, the shoe she fit me with was awful. The vamp was way too long and I found it hard to roll onto pointe. Third, the whole process took about ten minutes, which is not a good sign. I decided to go to Assemblé in Colorado while I was there on vacation. Noel of famous for his pointe shoe fittings and I loved dealing with him while I lived there. He was so nice, the shoes fit infinitely better, and when I told him about my experience at Center Stage, he said, "Yeah. I've heard of them. Just come here from now on." Apparently their reputation in the dance world isn't great. read more

Girl on the phone was pretty much a jerk and sounded bothered that she had to answer the phone in the first place. Her reply was curt and I believe she asked if I was done yet (after 1 question!). Considering there aren't very many specialty dance stores around, I might eventually venture over there someday... but not today. If they can't be bothered answering simple questions with some manners, I can't be bothered spending any money there either. read more

I took my daughter today to get her ballet outfits and I received unfriendly welcome from these two young ladies. That did affect my mood for ballet shopping. Even what's more my daughter didn't want to try on the ballet shoes when a lady was about to put shoes on - my daughter walked away from her. She doesn't like her either. You ladies at CenterStage needs to change your moods toward customers. So I got what my daughter needs. That's done. read more

I have visited Centerstage several times to look for leotards and tap shoes for my daughter the dancer. Somehow, they almost never have her size in stock in anything that I have tried to find there--reasonably priced tap shoes, leotards, jazz pants.... This is not a one time occurrence but has happened over the past three years that I have tried to find dance gear there. The first time we visited Centerstage we ordered a red leotard from the store. After waiting over 2 weeks for it to arrive at the store we ended up ordering on-line instead. I like to support brick and mortar and small local businesses. The staff has been personable, kind and cool under the pressure of waiting on a large number of customers in a small space. I just find it annoying that that they don't seem to keep enough sizes in stock. Several of my daughter's dance classmates have had the same problem when trying to find tap shoes and leotards at Centerstage. They also have had to buy elsewhere. If Centerstage would try to coordinate with the local dance schools to inform their ordering, that would improve their chances of having enough of the basics on hand and more happy customers. read more

Raves to the customer service from the staff at Centerstage. I heard it has new ownership so I wanted to check out their shoes. It is very difficult to fit me as I have a narrow foot. Well I fell in love with a pair and being in a rush, didn't want to try on both shoes. When I got home I noticed that one of the straps had a broken clasp. This was the only pair in my size and the staff offered to refund my money, exchange the shoes or if I was so stuck on them to repair them no matter the cost. Who does that anymore or does it with a smile and real sincerity other than Nordstrom? I've since bought another pair of shoes that fit perfectly. Everyone working there is friendly and knowledgable. I am recommending them to all my dance friends. read more