I normally don't leave negative reviews, but I feel compelled to share my recent experience in hopes it helps others make an informed decision.
I paid $250 to participate in a performance, but unfortunately landed in the hospital for 10 days and was unable to perform. I communicated this, expecting some level of understanding or flexibility. Instead, I was told there would be no reimbursement -- only the option to perform at the next event, and not even at full value -- just a discounted rate. And this was only offered after they could not get enough girls to sign up for that performance.
I also never received the text she said she sent, and the screenshot she claimed to provide never came through. While I truly understand that she just had a newborn -- and I wish her and her family well -- there was no compassion shown to me during my own serious medical emergency.
For anyone considering joining, please be aware of all the additional fees involved. The membership is costly, and if you cancel a class last minute due to unforeseen circumstances -- even legitimate emergencies -- you're still charged a late cancellation fee. These extra fees are not always made clear upfront and can quickly add up. Not to mention it is communicated that guest can attend one class for free. That has not always been the case for me even when sending the link through my invite.
I was also told there's no profit made off these performances. However, after doing my own research, I found out that organizations like the Diamondbacks don't charge for these pregame performances -- and many companies actually use these events as a way to raise money. That was really disappointing to learn, especially after being told otherwise. If this is true and it's the franchise rules that don't allow a reimbursement then everyone should know this upfront.
Since stepping away from DivaDance, I've discovered other local dance studios that charge a fraction of the cost, foster a great sense of community, and don't charge cancellation fees. It's been a refreshing and positive change.
I believe in supporting small businesses and the arts, but this experience left me feeling misled, unsupported, and taken advantage of. I hope in the future others do not experience this same situation which is why I felt compelled to be transparent in my own experience. read more
