A note to Julia , from my daughter . Dear Julia, I have grown as a dancer as well as a person. I can't begin to tell you how grateful I am to work with you. I will always hold a special place in my heart in the spring time when I started working with you. Thank You for an amazing 4 Years! read more

I have taken many ballet classes in LA, but I have NEVER experienced such a professionalism, devotion, master class as talented Julia Bourlina has shown. Her ballet classes are the highlight of my week! From day 1 I walked into the studio, I had a feeling I was on another planet. I saw respectful, well-behaved students, truly inspiring atmosphere. Everyone was so focused and dedicated. Once I started taking classes, I understood why. I'm absolutely in LOVE with her daily classes and only wish I could attend all 7 days a week! Students of different ages, backgrounds, skills drive from remote parts of town, even during rush hour, just to be able to take her one-of-a-kind class. She has this rare talent for navigating students of different levels and pinpointing their needs. Working 7 days/week (!!!), making the schedule so flexible for all of us, - she's truly an inspiration. I'm in the best shape I've ever been! But most importantly, I'm a much happier person BECAUSE of Julia. Bless her soul for loving her job soooo much, and sharing her rare talent with us. If you want your kids to learn discipline, grace, value of hard work and have the Best posture, you must bring them for Julia's classes. I wholeheartedly recommend Julia!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! read more

A Master Teacher and a True Inspiration Julia Bourlina is a rare gem in the ballet world. A former professional dancer with the world-renowned Mariinsky Theatre, she brings with her the unmatched discipline, artistry, and tradition of one of the greatest ballet institutions in existence. Her training is not only elite but was earned through immense courage, determination, and dedication--and we, her students, are incredibly fortunate to be the recipients of that legacy. Having studied with many teachers before meeting Julia, I can say with confidence that no one matches her depth of knowledge in the classical vocabulary, nor her openness to incorporating contemporary pedagogy. It is truly a gift and an honor to be in her class. Julia corrects with clarity, patience, and grace, always acknowledging even the smallest progress. She has created a safe, welcoming sanctuary for anyone who loves the art of ballet--an environment where we are encouraged to express ourselves fully while also being kind to our bodies. I've studied with Julia for over a decade, and in that time I've witnessed her consistent kindness, integrity, and personal attention to every student--regardless of age, experience, or background. Her studio is a space where all are respected and uplifted. If you love dance and want to be both challenged and inspired, I wholeheartedly recommend Julia's classes. P.S. To the person who left a negative review: I urge you to take a thoughtful look inward and reflect on what truly motivated you. Your experience does not reflect the excellence and care that Julia consistently provides to all of her students. read more

I came to Julia Bourlina after trying 10+ ballet studios in LA & surrounding areas. She's by far the best ballet teacher in LA. Her method is very precise and she's very detailed oriented in her corrections. I came to her at the lowest point of my dancing career after a 1.5 year hiatus and put me back into performing shape in just a matter of months. She was very supportive all throughout the process with the right kind of balance of genuine care while coaching you to reach your next level. read more

Julia who teaches ballet to teens and adults in the evenings is amazing. She has a professional background from Russia (St. Petersburg) so she knows what she's doing, plus she is caring and understanding on a personal level. some students have been with her for years, and they rave about her. I have a very high opinion of her teaching and the way she treats her students, as well. read more

I have taken ballet classes with Julia Bourlina at Hama's for about 10 years now. Her expertise, professionalism, generosity, kindness, and artistry never ceases to amaze me. She cares so much about each student and always provides the most helpful, constructive feedback. We are so lucky to have a ballet teacher like her! read more

Amazing training for ballet. Great for pro dancers. Not the best parking situation but Millenium Dance Complex parking is much worse if that gives perspective. I'll definitely be back for ballet training. read more

great studio! great teachers! especially Ms. Julia Bourlina! she is the best ballet instructor always giving kind, caring, and thoughtful encouragement and correction. full of love for her and always growing read more

Best studio in studio city The best most knowledgeable teachers And people is awesome and friendly the environment is super healthy and makes you wanna progress as a dancer and person a gem read more

Christian's class on Tuesday and Thursday from 10 - 11:30 is one of my favorite ballet classes in LA. Not only is he gorgeous with ridiculous technique and extension, he's a caring and committed teacher who makes us work hard and brings out the best in us. Kana is one of the most caring teachers you'll find anywhere in LA. She's kind, funny, knowledgable, and beautiful inside and out. Her technique is meticulous; and she's a gorgeous dancer. I could go on and on, but suffice to say, if you're looking for a ballet class, you'll love hers. read more

This is a beautiful facility. Not sure if the floor is sprung (I'm bad at figuring that out) but the marley is awesome and the space is huge. I have taken jazz with Eric and Terri, love them and the studio. read more

This review in no way should affect the other businesses that operate in the Hama Dance Studio. Our child was devoted to Julia Bourlina and her Classical Ballet Practice for many years. In 2020, numerous comments were made by Julia to our child directly about a need for her to lose weight. Initially, we were shocked and ignored the situation but after multiple comments made about our daughter's appearance both privately and in front of the class, we decided to react and arrange a meeting to discuss the behavior with Julia privately. Upon meeting in her studio, we encountered an angry and defensive Julia. We chose to listen to her side of things and became increasingly offended. Instead of showing remorse, shockingly, Julia was quick to offer her services at a discounted rate if our daughter lost weight. She wrote down discounted pricing based on the amount of weight loss she deemed appropriate. She had pricing for a loss of 10 pounds and an even a deeper discount for a loss of 15 or more. She offered these to us as an incentive to help our daughter slim down to meet her standards. We were horrified. She shared these details in writing, we retained the evidence. Julia's behavior is abusive and has had a negative effect on our teenage daughter. Over 8 years of dedicated time and effort, Julia became a figure of  authority to our child. She had our daughter's trust and admiration. Upon realizing the full reality of the situation, we  have decided to make our experience public so others might avoid the shame a young person feels when they are humiliated by a mentor. This experience has had a lasting effect on our lives and our child's self-esteem and body image. She should be ashamed of herself and not allowed to work with children. She has no heart. We will not return. read more

Hama and Hama's Dance Center have been a part of my life since 1990. For techinical and lyrical jazz classes, this place cannot be beat. I am proud to say that I had been an assistant to the late Claude Thompson who had been teaching at Hama's since the Studio was on Glenoaks in Glendale, and no where else in Los Angeles would you have been able to find more talented, technically trained, hard working, and wonderfu dancers, than in Claude's classes. Since his passing, I am fortunate enough that I have Michael Owens' class, at Hamas, to keep me in amazing shape. I never get to take from Hama anymore since I teach at my studio at the same time he is teaching, but it is always a treat to see him at the studio. Hama really cares about all his students and teachers and he is the brains behind Jazz Dance LA and is always supportive of the Dance Comminity. This is a great studio without all they hype and pretense you will find elsewhere. My favorite class now is Michael Ownens' class M/W/F 1:30pm-3:00pm Technical/Professional Level Jazz. Bring your Character Heels for the combo. read more

Hama's Dance Center - Hamas Class Schedule - Performing Arts Near Me - Studio City, California

I studied with Hama and his then-assistant Tracey Durbin (for whom I assisted) in the late 1980s (1986 to 1989). I haven't jumped back into Hama's class because my turns are essentially gone after 20 year hiatus from dance and while I'm studying fairly seriously in New York with Luigi, Hama's mentor (or one of them), Francis Roach (who teaches 17 classes at Luigi in NYC on 68th between Central Park West and Columbus) does not do across the floor or lots of turns so I haven't regained those skills with all this NY dancing. The woman who gave the studio one star is out of her mind. I think Risa and Jerry are two of the coolest teachers I've ever met. Both are stunningly gorgeous jazz dancers with such original, lyrical combinations and diverse music. (I do wish Hama would change the music for the adagio as that Kenny G is well-known among his fans as a song one would be happy never to hear again.) I will start privates for turns with Risa soon and I am overjoyed to have found this studio. I'll start taking Hama's class in a few months when my doubles are adequate. But the woman talking about Hama is clearly not a real dancer or anyone who knows how the dance world works. Dance--once you're "in the club"--is often full of drama, hurt feelings, a sense of neglect by a big teacher. Hama does correct but you have to be a regular in my experience, at least in the 1980s. The real beauty of this studio is that hip hop killed lyrical/classical/traditional jazz dance. I hear about this in detail at Luigi in New York City and even on Broadway, choreographers are increasingly ignorant of the tradition. My only quarrel with Hama's studio is the location. The Valley is a monumental pain with LA traffic patterns circa 2012 so I have to go midday and hang out if I want to take a 6:30 class. Also, you MUST call ahead. I have arrived a few times now to a canceled class with no sub. No big thing if you live in the Valley. If you commute from Pacific Palisades or Santa Barbara, this is very vexing to say the least. It's also hot in the Valley so you shouldn't wear long sleeves. Yes, there are fans but you're going to sweat profusely (think Bikram or hot yoga kind of sweat) I am starting Jerry's class this week at Van Nuys Performing Arts Center. That's even worse. First of call Van Nuys is not a nice place. And it's further. But the reality is: the BEST teachers are in the Valley now because there is no way to make rent and profit simultaneously. The only reason Westside School of Ballet in Santa Monica makes it (and I think "makes it" is about it, not really profitable) is the munchkin contingent. Lots of little girls and teens training very seriously. I really wish Hama still taught on the Westside like in the 1980s but this is worth the trek. Risa, Jerry, Hama: these are the teachers as I understand it maintaining the tradition of lyrical jazz in a sea of hip hop. None are pure Luigi though Hama would be closer than Risa or Jerry. But just to have the PRIVILEGE and HONOR to watch Jerry and Risa dance is worth the price and it's very cheap, by the way, compared to other classes. Van Nuys is really cheap. read more

This review is for Oscar and Bethena's Salsa class on Monday nights. It begins at 8:30pm and ends around Ten. They split the room in two - beginner and intermediate. They begin the class with a warm up that includes bachata, mambo, and other salsa moves. Then there is partner dancing where they teach a routine. The class culminates with some chacha. I highly recommend this class its always a wonderful experience. I go whenever I'm in town. read more

Hama gives one of the best jazz classes I've ever been to. The warm-up is set, but is so complete and thorough and you are dancing the whole time. One of the most unpretentious studios I've been to in a long time. All the instructors are top notch. Lots of technique. Frankie's class is awesome as well. Risa gives a nice beginner class. A great studio for dancers of all ages! read more

Great studio. Not sure if it's good for kids, but definitely a great spot for young adults / adults. I like the floor here better than in a lot of other studios, somehow it works better than wood floor. Tip: Just pick the right teacher for yourself and you will like it too! read more

Risa's jazz class is fantastic. She does a substantial warm up followed by great choreography and accommodates the needs of all students. This neighborhood studio has a really friendly and welcoming vibe. Definitely check it out! read more

Yay adults, professional dancers, amazing teachers/choreographers, small studio & parking! This is a more adult driven studio but kids should experience these teachers pronto! Risa is lovely Nathan is amazing Jerry is unbelievable Hama is classic Kelleia is sassy And many more! I'm sure you'll find a class that suits you. read more

I have been dancing with Hama for almost my entire life. My mom and I have followed him around to several different studios and the quality of classes has always been consistent. There are many different class options available for both children and adults, and all of the teachers are well trained and great at what they do! Hama's Dance Center is a great place to get a quality dance education for a very reasonable price. Plus, if you meet Hama you will fall in love with him - he is a legend! WE LOVE YOU HAMA'S DANCE CENTER! read more

I've wanted to take a salsa dance class here for months but I can't ever contact a live human that works here. I've called numerous times and I've even stopped into the studio multiple times and there's never anyone at the front desk to greet people or answer the phone. A sign out front says the class is on Monday but the schedule online says the class is on Sunday. Shouldn't be this hard to give a local, small business my money. read more

Hama's is such a pleasant studio to go to for dance. Kanas ballet class is great for all levels. She really knows how to teach technique safely and is a sweetheart. When you get tired of the crowds, young dancers who haven't learned dance etiquette and choreographer who only want to video tape and post, come to Hama's!!! Real classes for real dancers. Check out all of the teachers from jazz to salsa and more. Juliana runs a top notch ballet program for kids too!! read more

I've only taken two jazz classes here but thoroughly loved them and the teacher. She saw I needed extra help and and as very encouraging and gave me great instruction. read more

This is one of the best dance studios in LA. I love taking Risa's jazz class on Saturdays because I am able to dance at my own pace and make it as challenging as I want it to be, depending on how my body is feeling that day. It's great for all levels, and I especially appreciate how patient Risa is when demonstrating technique and new choreography. I get to learn so many new styles like character, lyrical, etc. and there's always plenty of time to dance the combination at the end of class! read more

Still love this studio. Still great teachers. Jazz and Ballet for Adults. (and some kids classes, too) Come check it out, and get the joy of dancing back in your life. :) read more

Hama's dance studio is a wonderful place to dance. The studio has beautiful floors and mirrors, so I love dancing and taking class here. I have taken Risa's jazz class and Kana's ballet class. Risa's class has a very thorough warm-up, and we have great opportunity to work on our across the floor combinations. Her choreography that I've worked with is lyrical jazz, very flowy and beautiful. And Risa herself is such a sweet person. She will gently tell you what you need to focus on or change when you're doing something incorrectly, and always encourage you to do better. If you watch her dance, you will also see what an amazing dancer she is. Kana's ballet class is also a great learning experience. We go through a full stretch, warm-up, and center. She is very good at correcting technique, and helps you with placement and form. She is also very energetic and you can tell that she loves what she does. I would definitely recommend this studio for dancers of any age and level. read more

Do not bring your daughters to their Ballet class, they're rude, cold and made my daughter cry on her first day of ballet class. This isn't the Bolshoi Ballet, it's a dance class for heavens sake... lighten up and don't scare the kids ! read more

Just took my first class with Barb (Beg/Int Jazz) and it was wonderful. Very challenging warm-up with lots of technical work, then a nice combination that moved well through space and opened us up. She's very thorough and gives excellent advice and corrections. I once was a fairly serious dancer who hasn't taken class in a while, and I found the studio was spacious, friendly, comfortable, and just the right atmosphere for me. read more

I've been taking Hama's jazz class for years. I enjoy taking class from a true master teacher. Hama's creates a safe professional environment for professional dancers at any age. He challenges you to be your best as only a master can do! I Love this class and highly recommend! read more

I am so glad I finally found Hama's Dance Center after working down the street for about five years. The atmosphere at Hama's is welcoming and friendly. The studio is a good size with lots of mirrors. I really enjoy taking Kana's ballet class and Risa's jazz class. I have also taken ballet from Kenji when he has subbed for Kana (although he does teach ballet on Thursday mornings) -- also a very good class. Kana starts with a thorough warm up/stretch which gets me ready for the rest of class. She emphasizes correct placement and performance quality. Kana's combinations are challenging and fun, and her enthusiasm and energy are uplifting. It's a joy to take Risa's jazz class! I love her lyrical choreography, but I also like that she will throw in something upbeat and kind of sassy/playful. With my ballet training, I am sometimes a little awkward doing the jazz movements, but Risa gives helpful corrections and encourages me (and everyone) in a very positive way. I highly recommend this studio and these teachers! read more

I definitely recommend Hama's Dance Center! There's an old school feeling to this dance studio that reminds me of the studios I grew up dancing in throughout the 1980's and 90's. The teachers are all very well-trained and welcoming to new students. For adults, I feel the classes are challenging, a great work-out and an inspiring creative outlet without being overwhelming. It's a relaxed and focused environment without any stuffiness or pretension. I've found that most of the adult classes are geared toward people with previous dance training, and they've really helped to maintain my skills. I strongly suggest Risa's lyrical jazz class and Kana's (sometimes taught by Kenji) ballet class. All three teachers are wonderful instructors, innovative choreographers and lovely dancers themselves. :-) read more

Just want to say something about the studio hygiene. Two words: Filthy + Dirty. The toilets are fecal stained, the floor is rarely cleaned and the overhead hangings are full of dust. As that's not enough, it smells rotten recently. The place is a hot bed for epidemic diseases because dancers are sucking in the dusty air when using the fan in hot summer, and they are often rolling on the floor while dancing so they catch the germs and get sick easily. The studio's really needed to have a through clean out from the top to bottom ASAP. P.S, Animals shouldn't be allowed into the studio. read more

I love Hama's Dance Center for both jazz and ballet! Kana, Kenji, Risa, and Hama are incredible dancers and teachers who integrate both technically challenging and creative teaching practices. This studio is a gem in the valley! Whether you are a professional dancer or if you are an adult who always wanted to take dance classes, this is the place for you! read more

Mondays salsa...i like Javiers energy and teaching ability especially at the intermediate levels. Better than other classes I have taken and its only $10 for 2 hours! Plus he mixes it up and makes it fun! read more

I enjoy it a lot :) the classes are good but there is one teacher who teaches a lot of classes and I do not like her at all. She is really nasty and rude and why I am picky about what I take. overall the quality of teachers is good. Just... I miss Kristin!!!!!! read more

I've taken class for years now at Hama's. He's a national treasure where Jazz is concerned, and his class is real, traditional, heavy-duty workout. I often take Risa's lyric class and she leads a lovely class for adult beginners in a no-pressure, supportive atmosphere. The entire teaching staff is fantastic. read more

One star is too high for this place. My nephew was discriminated against because he has gay parents. Parents told kids not to touch this child because he has gay parents and they were totally open about it. The studio would not back the student and wouldn't even return calls from the parents. Homophobia doesn't belong anywhere, but to have this happen to a little boy is disgusting, and to have it happen in dance or any of the arts is stunning. The parents are withdrawing him, but the damage will last forever. All he ever wanted to do, from the time he was a toddler, was to dance. I hope they find a more humane studio for him. read more

Hama was my dance mentor years ago. He is amazing and this whole studio is the best if you want a solid technical foundation.

Hama Dance Center is a place that truly cares about dancers of all ages. Hama was one of my first teachers when I was starting a dance career, and he is still my teacher today after more than 30 years. Hama is a master teacher and his warm-up is unmatched in Los Angeles - it is thorough, fluid, and beautiful. His combinations are a blend of line, technique, and musicality that is also unmatched in Los Angeles. Hama will truly teach you how to dance, if you let him. All of the teachers at Hama Dance Center reflect Hama's values as a teacher, choreographer and person. Julia's work with the little ones is magical - and over the years I have watched little girls turn into gifted ballerinas under her tutelage. Hama, his faculty, and his Dance Center truly deserve 5 stars. read more