I had so much fun at the enthno-Haitian dance class Sunday afternoon. This was my first time in a dance class in a few years and it was just hard enough to push me but it wasn't impossible! This class really let's you release stress and the live music is something rare in the dance world. Take advantage of the drop-in classes because not many studios offer this, especially ones with live music! Great job dance complex! See you next week! read more

The Dance Complex - Great variety of asses for all levels! - Performing Arts Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Great place. Good sense of community and fun! When I came in as a new "student", the woman at the desk was friendly and helpful. I didn't have to sign up, just paid the teacher after the class (though I think some classes require registration). I've taken salsa classes with Hips on Fire instructors Cristina and SeeMore but you can find such a variety of dance styles, there's really something for everyone. Located right in Central Square, a few doors down from the Middle East, it couldn't be more easily accessible. If you're coming from Boston, just hop on the #1 bus near the new Best Buy at Newbury & Mass Ave and you're there in 10min. If I weren't already paying $90 a month for my gym membership, you'd find me here more often. read more

We've been going to the dance complex for a few years now. Really like the ballet classes from the School of Classical Ballet. The facilities aren't super nice but overall we can highly recommend the ballet classes. read more

I take a street funk class here regularly and just love the place. The dance studios themselves are pretty old and the building owners like to conserve on the heating bill in the winter by keeping all the windows shut to the dismay of the sweaty dancers. That said, it has an old-school charm that I personally wouldn't want to see change... Just don't say I didn't warn you about the stuffy rooms! You get used to it after the first five minutes. read more

I went to the Dance Complex last Saturday morning and did back to back hip hop classes with Carl. The first one was so much fun I decided to stay for the second. These classes definitely got me sweating and working muscles I normally don't use. I thought it would be good cross-training, something different while I'm training for a marathon, but I didn't realize I'd get such a great, energizing workout and be sore the next day. It was all worth it! These classes are no fuss, just show up, even a little late is okay, cash only paid right to the instructor. No need to feel self-conscious, everyone is too busy trying to get the steps and look at themselves in the mirrors. read more

The Dance Complex is one of my favorite places in the Boston area and Lisa Simon's M/W night jazz dance class is the best! I love the nice long warm-up and Lisa's multi-style choreography which is the same for three weeks at a time. Class is mixed level so Lisa always teaches from the top and everyone works to their ability, whether they're drop-ins or regulars, beginners or experienced. There are always new people in class, and the regulars are all friendly and fab (not just saying that because I'm one of them!). Plus, Lisa's sense of humor and her Jack Russell terrier Dolly, the class mascot, really take the edge off all the ab work! read more

This is the quintessential dance studio that old school dance movies are made of. Funky old converted building, great variety of classes, knowledgeable teachers, and friendly, non-judgemental dancers. The teachers rent their space, so you have to pay cash to the teacher, and each teacher's rates vary. (Some have their own websites and you can pay online before class.) Very community driven, but also a great amount of talent and skill from both teachers and students. If you're thinking of trying a class for the first time, this is the place to go. Only con: No A/C. If it's 85 degrees outside, then it's 100 degrees in the studio, especially on the upper floors. read more

I really want to like this place....I keep trying to take class there and leaving underwhelmed by my experiences. The space is always a bit dirty and people are always coming and going. It's great to see so many people milling about, but also a little unsettling when you're in a leotard and trying to stretch out. The studio floors aren't great for technique classes, studios always feel cramped, and the locker rooms are dirty. I really wish I could write a better review for this place. I appreciate what it stands for and I'm grateful to have this space in the city, but it never lives up to my expectations. read more

Eh, a bit of a bummer. I recently attended the Wed night African dance class. I don't have a dance background, but I've been to a few great African dance classes before. I called to check if this would be appropriate for a beginner and was told that it was a welcoming class for all levels. Not so much. The teacher used a lot of technical language, gave no time to go over the steps, and focused only on her strong dancers. All the dancers were pretty seasoned, and not really open to helping- which is understandable, I suppose, since they want to get something out of it, too. But I wish it was marketed as an intermediate-advanced class. As a plus, the live drumming was great. But I wish there was more discussion, as I've seen in the past, about how to listen for cues in the drumming and follow the beat, and the meaning of the movements. Also the price was higher than what was listed on the website. I don't think I'll go back again to that class. The studio is great, though. read more

I just started taking a bellydancing class with Carolisa and love it so far. I learned a lot in just the first class and got a great work out. The Dance Complex offers every type of dance imaginable. I highly recommend checking out for all your dance interests. Ever wanted to work out more but just cant make yourself do it...an african dance class can give you a big cardio boost. The classes here are priced very reasonably and it is located right on the Red line. My one complaint is the tiny locker room. I suggest changing before class. read more

Stop by any time and take a class---all levels, all varieties. Great hip-hop and African classes for those of us who are just dabbling, and professional level ballet and other classes for those who are a little more serious about their dancing. A great workout. A class is about 9-10 each, and totally worth it. Funky old building in central square....teachers are fun and friendly! read more

I attended a class last night, and although the actual complex was impressive, and the teachers were amazing, the lack of air conditioning was just ridiculous. How is it OK to hold a class with a lot of people on the fourth floor in the summertime with the windows closed, and no A/C. I left halfway through because I just could not stand it. And not to mention, people PAY for this. I'm sorry Dance Complex, everything about you was great except for the lack of A/C, but that's enough for me to take my money elsewhere, and pay for a facility that has adequate and comfortable facilities. read more

I took the West African Dance Class for the first time in my life at The Dance Complex and it was a life changing experience! Between the energy of the teacher and the students, to the live music of the drums, I was able to leave my ego at the door and just have fun. I have danced my entire life, but never like this and yet, I never felt intimidated. The vibe of the class is inviting and embracing of the music, the energy, the movement. It is a great time overall, a wonderful experience to go with a friend or a date! I can't wait to go back. I felt a sense of accomplishment, community and also, a new found respect for West African culture. It is in the heart of Cambridge and only $13 per class! I recommend this class to all my friends and anyone looking to try something different and exciting. I promise, you will not be dissapointed. read more

This is quite a unique experience for me in Boston. The dance complex has four floors, and an amazing array of dance classes for all levels. It's quite a crowded and old building, with squeaking wooden steps, and the rooms, while fully mirrored, as also as old. The classes are also often quite oversubscribed. It's great as it's low cost ($10 per class), and the teaching quality is very high. However, the not so ideal conditions and the crowded classes make it difficult to make a full commitment to attending on a regular basis. Oh, and it's also very difficult to find parking, though the T to central square is right next door. read more

This place gives me booty-envy. Seriously. It is here I became well aware of the fact that even white girls have got more going on on the derriere. Asian butts just never get bubblicious, they just get wider and remain flat regardless of the poundage they pack on. I do appreciate the variety of classes, the central location and the flexibility of the drop-in option. read more

If you are a dancer or have a dancer in your heart, The Dance Complex is like heaven. There are 5 tiers and you hear live accompaniment coming from everyplace. The instructors I have experienced in Ballet, Flamenco and Samba are all exemplary in both their experience and their passion. Every level dancer is treated with equal respect. This is authentic dance, pure and simple. read more

The Dance Complex is a great place to start dancing. They have a variety and classes - from ballet to belly dancing to capoeira to kickboxing to hip hop and the list just goes on and on. The only thing that they don't have is ballroom dancing which I wish they would have more of. Class prices range from $9-14 and the teachers are extremely helpful. I've taken kickboxing, hip hop, capoeira, and ballet so far. My favorite teacher has been Anna Myer for ballet. She makes all beginners feel so comfortable. The Dance Complex runs mainly on donates so be sure to donate to keep this place alive!! They do not have air conditioning during the summer so keep that in mind on those sweltering hot days! read more

This place is good! If you grew up dancing in the back streets of NYC then this place will bring you right back! I haven't been in since they renovated but if it is still how I remember than be prepared for old Marley, shaky bars, and well everything else that comes with a friggin old building. The teachers and staff are very friendly and the people who take the classes are all very easy to talk to. I really enjoy classes here because there is a great range of dance styles and it's not stuffy and stuck up like Boston Ballet. It's actually a great place for adult beginners with absolutely no experience. Many other places if your a brand newbie they force you to sign up for a string of classes but this place has the walk in/drop in option. If you're an experienced ballet dancer, you might be a bit disappointed with the level of the classes. I strongly recommend either the modern or the jazz. The jazz teacher is really great! read more

Took Saturday Kickboxing with Dennis. Ow. Awesome class. Ow. I am fat and out of shape and just discovered my love of punching things. Ow. I will be back. read more

I got exposed to the world of dance at the Dance Complex. Several years ago I took Street Funk with Honey Blonder who still teaches there. I stayed for several courses and took other hip hop courses with other instructors at the Dance Complex. It rocks even if you are not a dancer or even need to get a little more fit. However muscle memory for memorizing dance combinations helps alot. Try it! read more

Must update because there are more wonderful things to share: Since I moved to Cambridge 4 months ago, I have really and truly come to feel at home here. One of the big reasons I opted for the Camb was so that I could take classes here regularly. Dropping in is fun and convenient for those who live far or are new to the studio, but this is above all a community you look forward to when you go to bed at night or after a day at work. That's something you share in common with the other dancers who come week in and week out. And, as things go, the instructors notice you and appreciate your presence (even if you're a non-paying, work-study like me ;) ). No matter how sweaty you are at the end of class, you're getting that hug and kiss and 'please come back!!!'. I just loooooooove this place. A couple non-sappy informational things to redeem my sappy self -- - new changes in January include Hips on Fire salsa instructors moving to Barcelona! BIG FAT tears. Seemore and Christina are absolutely wonderful; they'll be missed, but I'm so excited for them! Gah, I'm still talking sappy. - Bollywood workshop will start in late January on Sunday afternoons 12:30-1:30. It's fun fo sho. - DONATION. FREAKING. TABLE. (That'd be the table to the left of the stairs when you come in topped with clothes, old cell phones, shoes, books, CDs, jewelry, handbags, open bags of ground coffee (??...).) I have scavenged some of the greatest steals from this table @$2 each! cheap as hell! It's all about timing, so when I come in for my shift the first or second thing I do is rummage thru the table. So far I've gotten a Kenneth Cole leather bag, a new leotard, Mavi jeans, and brand new w tags Banana Republic winter scarf. That's just what I'VE found. Can you imagine the other stuff that comes in?! - Their website is updated pretty frequently with workshop information and class changes. Check it before you call the front desk with questions. - Classes for the kiddies are ongoing in the afternoons on Tues and Thurs and there are Kathak classes on the weekends. It's cute to see little kid dancers (in addition to the instructors' kids who come and mimic the warmups and jump next to you when you move across the floor). - Renting rehearsal space is so dang cheap here!! For weekdays, $8/hr before 6pm and $15 after 6pm, and only $9/hr all day on the weekends. Come one dancer, come many dancers. Serially, if/when I ever leave Boston, my heart would ache for the Dance Complex. read more

I tried this place out after reading all the positive reviews and wanted to add my praise to the bunch! I'm a (very) rusty former dancer who was looking for a beginner ballet class to get back into it. Anna Myer's Tuesday class fit the bill. I love that it's pay as you go, so if I can't make it one night, I'm not out any cash. The class is a mix of ages and abilities and Anna is welcoming to newcomers. The level of instruction for $10 drop-in class is pretty amazing! Anna is a great, experienced teacher who focuses on technique and will make you WORK HARD! I always leave drenched in sweat and feeling great. I haven't tried any other classes, but have peeked in on some, which look equally worthwhile. Also - there is a locker room, and there are bathrooms if you need to change there, which is nice. read more

This place is one of the best outlets for the creative soul. Afro Cuban on Sundays, African dance on Mondays and Hip Hop on Saturday Mornings does well to inspire. read more

The Dance Complex offers an immense variety of dance classes- most of which are on a drop-in basis, so you don't have to obligate yourself to multiple-week sessions. It offers everything from ballet to capoeira to karate to African to modern dance, etc! You can also rent studio space, and the large studio on the main floor can be converted into an intimate theater. Classes are very reasonably priced and most of the teachers are fantastic, especially Liz Lapuh who teaches ballet and pointe. Definitely worthwhile if you are looking to explore any form of dance! read more

Hidden gem of cambridge! Dance classes for all styles, great for anyone looking to try something new! Many beginners classes, highly recommend the African dance class! read more

I just moved away from Cambridge and this is one of the places I miss the most. This place has an amazing variety of dance classes and an amazingly diverse clientele. It's great to have a space for joy and movement like this in the middle of Cambridge. read more

i haven't been there in about 2 years but i loved dancing and working (as a work-study) at the dance complex. huge variety of classes to choose from: +loved anna myer's ballet class +loved jean's modern and haitian classes +loved carl's hip hop classes +loved the afro-jazz class i see they have a bachata class now. word?! that's amazing. we don't even have that kind of variety at the studio where i now work in nyc. they also have a gender-neutral bathroom which is rad. there's no reason not to go! good people, good classes, good vibes. read more

FANTASTIC! There are so many options of dance classes every single day of the week. I've just got back into ballet and there are beginning and advanced levels, catering to every interested dancer. African dance classes, modern, stretch, salsa, hip hop - whatever your interest, it's here. Teachers are so kind and non-judgemental, they really make dance what it should be - a beautiful experience, instead of a competition. It's probably best if you have had some dance experience before though. read more

I love the classes -- but here is my MAJOR issue with the DC. They don't hire their own teachers. The teachers there all pay rent to teach there, but the studio doesn't have any control over them, really. Generally not an issue, since the teachers HAVE to be really good in order to get enough students to pay their rent at every class. But for me, as an advanced dancer who works normal hours, I cannot get to a class during my free time. If the DC owned its teachers, they could make a more logical schedule. But it fills its niche well, and the classes are really great. I just try to make it out to Jose Mateo's or Green Street when I need an advanced class. read more

I love the mix of classes that they have here. I also enjoy that for most of the classes they are on a drop in basis, where teachers are glad to have you join them. I do find some of the classic classes to be a bit on the expensive side for someone on a drop in basis such as myself, but I still enjoy going when I can afford it. read more

Took Capoiera and Samba religiously here before I got pregnant again. I love it. I would love to try the Haitian dance class as well. I love the atmosphere at this school. I also bring my 3 year old to class sometimes and she loves it. read more

I've taken a few classes here and sometimes, you just have to risk taking a "not so great" class. The belly dancing class was fun, as was the salsa class (although, you should go with a partner eventhough they say u don't have to have one). The jazz funk class was...um, not so good. Very cheezy and the instructor, though he seemed like a nice enough person, was not a very attentive or creative instructor. I'd still be up for trying more classes though - they certainly offer quite the variety! read more

Currently taking beginner salsa dancing classes here with Johnny and Kelly...really love the drop in set up, prices and the fabulously fun experience of taking classes with the 2 instructors! Will continue to dance away.... read more

Oh man. This place is my home away from home. The people here are always energetic, grinning and sweaty - I love it. I am a substitute work-study there, and the volunteer culture is addictive. You can tell that people are there because they love to move and take in the world. I highly recommend the Capoeira Angola class if you want to be sore for three days afterwards. (Seriously, it is amazing.) And any of the African Dance classes are great ways to exfoliate the mind. read more

i take dance regularly, and decided to go here on a week when i didnt have class. i went to a friday night ballet class, and it was a little strange. The class was packed, and we did barre work the entire time. it was deffinetley a good workout, but i didnt learn anything and it didnt seem like classical ballet. i kept on getting yelled at for turning my hands in, which was the way i was tought. maybe i'll try a different class, i wasnt loving that one. read more

I have taken many classes here and I have enjoyed them all. The instructors are friendly and patient. Open to everyone regardless if you are "not"a professional dancer! read more

Obviously a super cool amount of classes, my biggest issue is that sometimes the classes you take never exxcel to another level because there is always someone new coming into the class, which slows the learning down....and this is specifically when a class is taught there that does not offer beginner, intermediate, advanced. You end up being capped with your education... ehh. On another note, some classes are fantastic!!! Parking is a HUGE PAIN! read more

This is a joyful place to go after work when you feel like crap. Seriously. I LOVE Liz Lapugh's ballet classes, and I really want to start taking more, like the Pilates and the flamenco classes. So much to choose from in terms of classes. The bathrooms are clean, the space is cozy, the building is beautiful with sweeping staircases, and the put on great shows, too! Buy your tickets way ahead of time if you ever decide you want to see a show! The only downside is that they don't offer a school-wide ten-class card. Individual teachers often do, so don't be afraid to ask! read more

Lisa Simon Barre conditioning very judgemental and most of the reason why I don't do Barre there anymore.

Honey Blonder's Hip Hop / Street Funk is how I've been warding off seeing a therapist all these years, because it can turn everything from the winter doldrums to the Sunday blues to the worst breakup into an expression of art ... and pure gladness to be alive. Her classes are extremely cathartic. And it's the better alternative to the gym for sure. Honey's choreography is impeccable and she's always picking the new and hippest hip hop beats for us to rock out to. I've been taking some form of dance class on and off all my life and I've always struggled with instructors who expect perfection, only attend to those who show the most skill up front and overall come equipped with attitudes not conducive to learning. Honey is above and beyond any teacher I've had before in dance - she's truly top-notch; she's professional and accepting of everyone's level while at the same time she has a sense of when a class can be brought to the next level by adding a few more sets of eights. Everything from the warm-up to the routine to the cool-down is joy in motion. Since I go on Sundays I always tell friends I am off to the "Church of Honey" because it's a transcendent experience every time. Dancing in itself is so therapeutic and with Honey at the helm, dance classes do not get better than hers. Also note that Honey's dedication to her student cannot be beat - she is practically an institution at the Dance Complex - having kept the same schedule for hip hop (Thursday evenings / Sunday mornings) running for over the past 10 years. I love knowing that while my life can be distracting I can always "come back to the dance". read more