Van Der Zwaan Dance Studio

(42 reviews)

0.8 mi

I took a class with Jazmyne and I loved it! She has great energy, the moves were really accessible…read moreto beginners, and she was really encouraging. I had a lot of fun and will absolutely be recommending it.

For anyone thinking of taking a class - do it! I started here as a brand new pole dancer with 0…read moreexperience and with very little athletic background and dancing here has become my new obsession. The instructors are kind, fun and make you feel so comfortable. The people here are non-judgemental, uplifting and caring. I've always felt at least a little self conscious when exercising - at the gym, in the street, in group classes - but going here was the first time I was fully immersed in the dance and didn't feel the slightest bit concerned about how I looked, how my dancing was, or how I compared to the other students. Try it!!

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The Beat

4.5

(47 reviews)

1.8 mi

We love the Beat! I (and my husband Robert) have had nothing but fantastic experiences here and…read morehighly recommend it. Roger is so wonderful. He always has a kind word for everyone who enters and has the true soul of a dancer. Nick and Irina are also awesome teachers. It's crazy how much you learn and progress in even one class!

I came here to support my former teacher who was subbing a Brazilian dance class here and parking…read moreis free! The staff is welcoming and there are all sorts of classes here. The studio where the class was held is small but cozy enough for at least 8 people.

My tap shoes with a cup of awesome beer from the Linden Street Brewery in them!

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The beat logo

Sou Samba Studios

(5 reviews)

1.1 mi

Sou Samba is an awesome Brazilian dance studio with the exceptionally talented and vibrant Carioca…read moreda gema, Weslei, teaching Samba de Gafiera, Brazilian Bolero and Samba de Pez. Weslei's very talented wife Celeste helps run this wonderful dance studio with an exuberant Brazilian vibe. If you want to learn Brazilian dance in Berkley then Sou Samba is the place and they even offer capoeira. Valeu!

So thrilled for Weslei and all of the instructors now that they have a home at Sou Samba Studios. I…read morewas introduced to Weslei's style at another studio where he was subbing and instantly knew I wanted to continue to learn from him. I followed him to yet another studio in Oakland and he did not disappoint. He's extremely caring, intentional, passionate and committed to sharing the authenticity of his culture through dance while providing the details and history of specific movements. All of this while building community. Every instructor has their own style, which is such a treat...especially on Mondays for the Brazilian dance class. You literally show up and get something new every time. I was encouraged to try more of the ballroom styles by Celeste and now am addicted to those as well. A friend recently joined me in a Gafieira/Forró class and also mentioned how great Weslei's teaching style was and how he'd love to come back when he's in town again. I have only great things to say about Sou. If you're on the fence, just come and experience the joy for yourself!

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The Dance Floor

4.8

(15 reviews)

1.3 mi

I loved going to their Bollywood classes. Wish there was a center on the peninsula as I had to…read morerelocate for work.

This studio used to feel really special, but as it's grown, classes have become uncomfortably…read morepacked. With columns blocking the view + overcrowded space, getting a decent spot can feel competitive, which is a space issue that contributes to increasing tension between members. Lately, some of the messaging around space feels like it's putting the burden on clients, which can come off as frustrating or unintentionally shaming. I get that it's a tough room to manage--but there are better ways to handle it. The minute a business starts treating its clientele as gnats or 'entitled problems', is the moment that the heart of the business begins to weaken. Simple fixes like rotating rows each song, clearer spacing markers on the floor, or more instructor movement (use all mirrors!) could make a big difference. Even having a place up front just for newbies could be a positive way to address this vs making clients feel blamed for environmental and system barriers. There's still a lot to love here--I just hope the studio can hold onto the supportive, growth-oriented culture it's known for.

Dance cardio class

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Latin Connection Dance

(14 reviews)

1.0 mi

My wife and I had the pleasure of working with Ruth for the first dance at our wedding. Neither of…read moreus are dancers, but we had our hearts set on a special song. We had never even heard of a Viennese waltz let alone knew how to dance it. Ruth was extremely kind and patient with us, and helped us create a routine at our skill level, listening to our feedback and suggestions all the way. In addition to that, she was flexible with our packed schedule that comes with a month before a wedding. The dance ended up a hit and we got a ton of compliments! Ruth, thank you so much from the both of us!

I've been attending Ruth's salsa classes for about 4-5 months. Ruth is an outstanding teacher and…read moreLatin dancer. A key part of teaching a physical skill is to remind the student as many times as needed what they need to change until they integrate the new idea/movement/whatever. Ruth is excellent at holding out until you get the right idea. Then she moves you right along to whatever you need to do next. Ruth is also super perceptive - She quickly sees exactly what trouble a student is having and then clearly and kindly guides you towards the necessary improvement. I'm impressed by her ability to help people at widely varying levels by giving each person what they need - even though her suggestions are different for each person. Ruth is also friendly, fun and positive. I always feel welcome and encouraged at her class. I highly recommend Ruth to anyone wanting to learn Latin dance.

Ruth Caspary teaches wedding choreography being performed by a lovely couple.

Ruth Caspary of Latin Connection Dance.

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Art and Soul 2018, the magnificent Juan Carlos Camarena and Ruth Caspary teaching.

Danspace

(13 reviews)

2.6 mi

Just started taking the adult beginning ballet class here, and I really enjoy it. I've already…read moregotten some new insights about my feet, and as well as some well-earned soreness in the arches. But, oh those calves are getting a workout, and skirt season is here! Conveniently located near Rockridge BART. Not badly priced: $12 drop in, $40 for a 4-class card. And I really like the instructor, Mary Armentrout.

I grew up at Danspace. This is the best ballet studio in the Bay Area, not because of the number…read moreof professionals that come out of it (though there are a few), but because Danspace really takes care of your body. Beth makes the studio feel like family, and you will feel welcome here no matter what your body can do or what it looks like. Great place for adult beginners. Danspace provides excellent foundational technique that will carry through to every class you take from now on. If you're looking for a place to send your kid for dance classes, this is it. Danspace is nurturing, encouraging, and most importantly, they value your kid's health far more than any other studio in the bay area. Your kid will come away from ballet with lasting technique and higher self-esteem, not lower. There is no recital mania at Danspace--the emphasis is on teaching, not performance, so while there are performance opportunities, you will not have to shell out for fifty bazillion sequined leotards and tutus. Take Carly's jazz class if you're an adult/teen with a bit of experience. She's a great teacher and will push you to try things you didn't know you could do.

Class summer 2009 during our two week intensive with Ernesta Corvino.

Dance for Parkinson's Disease meets at Danspace on Thursdays from 10:30-12.

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Children's Division Nutcracker Rehearsal

YWCA Berkeley/Oakland

(14 reviews)

1.0 mi

(Based on the fitness class)…read more Not only is the Y easy to find it's perfect little spot in Berkeley across the campus. I recently joined the Hoop Dance class which is so awesome!! I loved every moment even though my hula hooping skills are a 2. There was a decent enough of room for the 12 participants and instructor (who is the sweetest) to swing those hips. Tons of fun and definitely a 10 in my book.

This review is for their fitness/ dance classes…read more I've taken belly dancing (with Nanna), Yoga, and I'm currently taking Pilates. The classes have been relaxed, run at a comfortable pace, and very instrumental. I've enjoyed every instructor I've had so far-- they've all been really fun, and obviously love what they do. The environment has been really encouraging and safe (ie it's OK to look like an idiot while swiveling your hips-- "no one's watching"). Prices are reasonable (about $40 to $50 on a 6 week session depending if you're a YWCA member or not). Only downside is that classes are often crowded, but the instructors seem to manage that all right.

Tour the World Showcase 2015 - Flamenco

Info 4/2025

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Student Leadership Board members - in charge of the Week Without Violence campaign, Holiday Projects, and the famous Shadow Day!

Shahrzad Dance Academy

(2 reviews)

0.5 mi

Shahrzad is an incredibly talented and beautiful artist. My husband and I reached out to her and…read moreasked if she could help us with our first dance for our wedding. We had chosen a unique Persian song and wanted a dance that combined American and Persian dance elements. I had asked a few other dance instructors who seemed unsure how to proceed but Shahrzad listened to the song once and instantly invited us for private lessons. During the first lesson, Shahrzad showed us the dance she had created and I fell in love with it. She had taken our vision and made it even better. We could tell she had taken time to listen to the lyrics and create a sweet and romantic story that followed along with the lyrics. As for the actual dance instruction, Shahrzad was very patient and kind. When she asked us what our level of dance experience is, my husband mentioned he has two left feet and I told her I dance socially but don't know any special steps. Shahrzad was able to adjust certain moves to match our skills and tailored the dance so that we would feel comfortable performing it in front of our wedding guests. Each lesson with her was pleasant and she was also flexible with our work schedules. Shahrzad is also an honest person and after a few lessons, she told us she felt we didn't need any more lessons. She offered to video tape our dance for us and provided verbal feedback so that when we went home, we could watch it and practice. On our wedding day, the first dance was the highlight of the evening for everyone. Neither my husband nor I have ever had so many people come up to us and compliment us on our dancing! Every person who commented on the dance said it was the best first dance they had ever seen. It was romantic, flirty, and engaging since it told a story. And most importantly, my husband and I had so much fun practicing it and performing it! Even today, a few weeks after the wedding, our families still project the dance onto the TV during gatherings and watch it. I highly recommend Shahrzad for dance instruction and am looking forward to hopefully attending some of her dance workshops in the future.

I've been dancing and studying under Shahrzad Dance Academy (SDA) for 6 months now after having…read moretaken classes with other studios in the Central Asian and Persian dance styles for 2 years. Shahrzad Khorsandi focuses on teaching the technique and incorporating grace, esthetic beauty through movement, and self expression! Which for me has been the perfect balance. I love and highly recommend her classes!!!

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Bollywood Dance Central- Oakland

(1 review)

2.1 mi

Love the studio so much! Sindhu is a fun and professional young woman and she's turned BDC into…read moresomething so exciting. Classes here are

From the owner: Bollywood Dance Central offers Bollywood, Bhangra, Semi-Classical, and Bolly Cardio classes for all…read moreage and dance levels! Our goal is to instill discipline within Bollywood dance and encourage our students to commit to their craft. Becoming a GREAT dancer takes consistency, time, and commitment. As an academy, we truly challenge every single student to go above and beyond. Our goal is to bring a higher level dancing to communities across the United States. We are currently in 5 cities and 3 states. Our BDC family is only as strong as it is with our dedicated parents, instructors, and managers.

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Berkeley Ballet

(53 reviews)

1.5 mi

I love this place and the adult introductory classes. I've taken Robert Greer's introductory ballet…read moreclasses for 10+ years and it's been the best experience. Robert makes the classes fun, and do-able, regardless whether you have danced ballet before. I've also learned so much from Robert about anatomy and how the human body is designed to function. This was very important for me because I started coming off of a disability where my body no longer felt like my own. Moving to music is so relaxing, and the other dancers and atmosphere of the class is so nice.

I took Intro to Ballet 1 with Alexis -- what a FANTASTIC experience for my first ballet class! As…read moresomeone who has never done ballet before, I was nervous that I'd feel out of place. Alexis did a terrific job of making sure everyone could follow along, and helped me with some of the basics that all of the other students already knew. The class was a blast and I also got a great workout in. I look forward to taking more classes with Alexis, and highly recommend!!!

Berkeley Ballet Theater's Spring Showcase--photo by Natalia Perez

Photo by Natalia Perez

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Strawberry Canyon Recreation Area

4.1

(29 reviews)

1.3 mi

The pool is great! And it's open way more hours this summer than the past. Pretty much 12-6pm…read moreeveryday for rec swim. FYI the pool is only open during the summer.

The Strawberry Canyon Recreation Area (SCRA) is a hidden gem located above the Cal Campus and on…read morethe road up the hill on the way up to the Lawrence Hall of Science. It features an outdoor swimming pool, a ropes course, locker rooms, fitness center, barbecue/picnic area, and the Haas Clubhouse. I've been here for a few private parties at the Clubhouse. But what I really enjoy is bringing the family here for a swim and a chance to hang out poolside or on the grass. It's quiet, peaceful and in lush surroundings. And it's only a short drive from the urban grittiness of my Albany home.

If you just want the lazy swim in the sun, this is it!

High-up obstacle course!

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Berkeley Aquatic Park

3.6

(81 reviews)

2.2 mi

Google maps will take you to the south lot, which offers free and easy parking. Overflowing trash…read morecans and a porta potty were located near the parking lot when I visited this past Saturday. Plenty of unmaintained grass throughout the park, not ideal for picnicking. But there were a few picnic tables and park benches along the trail bordering the pond. Along the paved path, I enjoyed the surrounding scenery and views of the water, as well as ducks, pelicans, and seagulls floating in the lagoon. I also found some disc golf baskets and exercise stations on site. Nothing too exciting here, but it's still a lovely park and not a bad option for getting your steps in.

I come here to walk and reset. The smell and the transients can be off putting sometimes. They have…read morea park for the kiddos and disc golf. There is parking and a bathroom but the bathroom closes kinda early. It is located near the freeway so it can get a little noisy, I have to wear headphones to bypass that.

Trail/park

Pier

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The Big C

(76 reviews)

1.1 mi

It's a short and steep hike up here. However don't expect a blazing 'C' at the top. We went…read moreduring a hot day and there isn't much shade around the area. If you're looking for a short burst workout this is a pretty good one with a fabulous view. I'm sad the swing isn't there. I would have like floating in the air. We paid for parking by the wooden stairs. However, there must be another area to park for free as there were other hikers en route.

Fast hike with nice views but no swing and poorly maintained. There is a lot of construction in…read morethe area as well.

Wild turkey in the distance

Swing

The rope swing

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Hearst Pool

3.8

(20 reviews)

0.9 mi

TL;DR beautiful pool, beautiful gym…read more PLUSES: + outdoor pool = great view (campanile) + design is old, rustic, and beautiful + huge locker rooms + halls are perfect for a photoshoot

This 33-meter (108+ feet!) rooftop pool of Roman proportions and elegance is a treasure of the UC…read moreBerkeley campus. The locker room is approached by a walk through a sunlit hallway of old, multi-paned windows. The locker room is spotless, and fabulously equipped. Then, the pool itself...holy crap...first of all, it's on a ROOF, and it's made of MARBLE and mosaic tiles. And there are huge concrete terraces on which to sun and rest oneself, as well as to view eye candy from the waterpolo team doing leisurely laps as if just for show. The lanes are huuuuge so collisions are rare. In fact, it sometimes feels like the place is a secret even from the lucky students who can enjoy it, because I don't remember it ever being crowded. In fact, as the sound of the Campanile heard between breaths of the fresh Berkeley breeze blowing over the verdant quad can charm anyone into thinking that they are having a dream of liquid solitude. Here, I was able to break through my 2-lap ceiling and seal my love of swimming forever. Okay, one pain in the ass is that you have to pay a fee to rent out a locker...but at least you CAN rent out a locker! Another pain in the ass is that you have to wear a damn swim tag on your person to show that you are allowed to be in or around the pool in the first place...but the crispy, sun-yellow, and oh-so-filchable towels provided by the gym make up for all this... Yeah, so basically, there's nothing negative that can be said about this pool. It is a drop of Heaven on Earth.

Fantastic pool no matter what the weather.

Assessing the stroke

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Yet another sunny day at UC Berkeley's renowned Hearst Pool

Sticky Art Lab

My son just attended a birthday party in this little hidden gem. The space is inviting and the kids…read morehad so much fun . The instructors were so kind and engaging with the kids . My little boy is already asking to go back again ! Definitely recommended !

We just had our 10 year old's bday here! Every thing was great, and the kids really got in to the…read moreproject we picked (felt succulent gardens). Planning to come back soon for an adult night (or another private party with my girl friends!).

Front door of Sticky Art Lab

Tote bag stamping workshop.

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Screen printing workshop!!

Van Der Zwaan Dance Studio - dancestudio - Updated August 2026

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Tutu School Berkeley

4.8

(37 reviews)

Had an amazing time for our first class ! Ms Allie is great with the children and truly makes them…read morefeel like little fairies. My daughter loves her class and had learned soo much in just two sessions so far

This school is amazing! My nieces have a great time every time they go to practice, and I love the…read moreperformances they put on to just let the kids dance and showcase what they've learned.

Berkeley Ballet

(53 reviews)

I love this place and the adult introductory classes. I've taken Robert Greer's introductory ballet…read moreclasses for 10+ years and it's been the best experience. Robert makes the classes fun, and do-able, regardless whether you have danced ballet before. I've also learned so much from Robert about anatomy and how the human body is designed to function. This was very important for me because I started coming off of a disability where my body no longer felt like my own. Moving to music is so relaxing, and the other dancers and atmosphere of the class is so nice.

I took Intro to Ballet 1 with Alexis -- what a FANTASTIC experience for my first ballet class! As…read moresomeone who has never done ballet before, I was nervous that I'd feel out of place. Alexis did a terrific job of making sure everyone could follow along, and helped me with some of the basics that all of the other students already knew. The class was a blast and I also got a great workout in. I look forward to taking more classes with Alexis, and highly recommend!!!

The Beat

4.5

(47 reviews)

We love the Beat! I (and my husband Robert) have had nothing but fantastic experiences here and…read morehighly recommend it. Roger is so wonderful. He always has a kind word for everyone who enters and has the true soul of a dancer. Nick and Irina are also awesome teachers. It's crazy how much you learn and progress in even one class!

I came here to support my former teacher who was subbing a Brazilian dance class here and parking…read moreis free! The staff is welcoming and there are all sorts of classes here. The studio where the class was held is small but cozy enough for at least 8 people.

Blackbox Studios

(6 reviews)

Our 6yo has been going here for several months and it's been great. The kids all seem so happy to…read morebe there and our daughter loves it. They did a choreographed recital for both kids and adults in a nice little theater in Oakland and it was soooo goood. The classes are fun but also take dance seriously as an artistic skill. There's a sense of community there that we're happy to be a part of. I asked my daughter what she liked about it and here's what she said: "she teaches us the different positions and the names [she then started to show us all the positions] First, second, third... [now she's dancing for us]." Whenever she gets home from class, she keeps dancing. We went to a couple different classes in the area before starting here and this is a VERY different result and we're all very happy about it.

My toddler and I loved our dance classes with Teresa! She's a master with little people, fluidly…read moremanaging demonstrations, imitation, games, and adjustments to their sudden whims. She does everything with ease, grace, and humor. Plus, the classes are diverse and welcoming, which is a wonderful introduction to dance for all children.

DanceVersity World Dance For Youth

(7 reviews)

AWESOME! Danceversity World Dance Camp ages 8 to16 During…read moreAugust Summer is the most high energy & fun, week or more, my daughter enjoys this . They have multiple dance teachers and often have live drums. 9AM to 4PM. They do a performance on Fridays! Held at Ashkenas in Berkeley.this is her 3rd year! They also offer: Weekly Classes though out the year in different locations. Summer Program DANCEVERSITY SUMMER CAMP 2010 REGISTRATIONS NOW ACCEPTED! 40% off additional weeks of camp! Contact Hannah for details at 415-794-7463 School Workshops Youth Performance Company Professional Performance Company Birthday Dance Parties

This year I enrolled my daughter for 2 weeks of dance camp with DanceVersity and she was able to…read moreexplore dance styles and culture from 8 different countries! Not only has she improved her ability to work together in a creative way but she made lots of new friends and has increased confidence to perform! This program is awesome for youth as well as our local artists who get to share their passion and love for their art form. Happy they continue classes during the school year but eager for summer camp again!

Berkeley Pole + Dance

(42 reviews)

I took a class with Jazmyne and I loved it! She has great energy, the moves were really accessible…read moreto beginners, and she was really encouraging. I had a lot of fun and will absolutely be recommending it.

For anyone thinking of taking a class - do it! I started here as a brand new pole dancer with 0…read moreexperience and with very little athletic background and dancing here has become my new obsession. The instructors are kind, fun and make you feel so comfortable. The people here are non-judgemental, uplifting and caring. I've always felt at least a little self conscious when exercising - at the gym, in the street, in group classes - but going here was the first time I was fully immersed in the dance and didn't feel the slightest bit concerned about how I looked, how my dancing was, or how I compared to the other students. Try it!!

Abigail Keyes Dance

(4 reviews)

I've been working with Abigail for a few years now with my dance needs and helping me level up in…read morevarious ways and first and foremost she has always been incredibly kind even when I've been a bit down about my dance. She's so very thoughtful, detail oriented and really geeks out over nerdy dance stuff which I LOVE. She gets into technical body work stuff (if you're in to that- 10/10 recommend) but also is an accomplished writer, historian and educator so if you need help with cultural context and history- she's your teacher! I always walk away from weekly classes feeling challenged and inspired and private lessons feeling motivated and supported in my dance studies- if you need some guidance or a little help on something that's been sticking for you in your dance path- pop into classes or sign up for a private lesson- I guarantee you won't regret it.

Abby is an amazing and giving dance instructor and wonderful person. She demonstrates both…read morephysically and verbally how to correctly execute a movement. With the warm up and cool down she'll keep you physically safe. In addition Abby is very educated in dance history and makes the dance class fun. One of my favorite things about dance is playing the cymbals while executing a dance move and walking at the same time - layering. In addition, she'll help correct what might be off. Such as dance posture, staying in home position. Love and respect her dearly. Katleen

Bay Area Belly Dance

(2 reviews)

Bay Area Belly Dance is as good as it gets as an absolutely DELIGHTFUL dancer and choreographer who…read moreradiates both world-class charm and mastery of her craft as well as that good-hearted approachability that makes her a rare GEM!

Really great class. Nathalie is a talented dancer and a very good teacher. I have enjoyed the…read moreclasses I have attended. Highly recommend!

Tutu School Hercules

(52 reviews)

In addition to the fun and excitement of ballet classes, let's talk about Parents' Night Out. Where…read moreelse can your child go for pizza, crafts, Cinderella movie clips and ballet practice for two hours for just $15/child in 2026? Seriously! Can we talk about value here??? And they cap the attendance at about 8-10 children, so it is not chaotic and understaffed. Jenbert Jr 1 and Jenbert Jr 2 loved their Parents Night Out!

Teacher Shakeera is fantastic. We have thoroughly enjoyed the class for the past 2 months. Every…read moreclass has structure, fun (props and bubbles), and our little one knows over 6 ballet moves at the top of her head. Highly recommend.

Dance Out Loud