Danspace

For Californians with a passion for movement, whether you're a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, Danspace in Oakland offers a truly exceptional and nurturing environment to explore the art of dance. Established in 1976 by Beth Hoge after her professional career in New York, Danspace was founded on the principle of offering ballet training that respects and works with "real bodies," not just the stereotypical dancer's physique. It's a studio that emphasizes education and inspiration, helping individuals achieve their utmost in a way that respects their individuality and fosters a love for movement, rather than succumbing to the pressures of drudgery and competition. For anyone in the California region looking for a supportive, friendly, and technique-focused dance home, Danspace stands as a beacon of quality and community.

The atmosphere at Danspace is consistently praised by its students, who highlight the amazing teachers, the friendly and attentive front desk staff who make an effort to learn names, and the welcoming nature of the adult students, many of whom are regulars. Instruction at Danspace focuses on correct technique and mechanics, ensuring a solid foundation for all dancers, regardless of their aspirations. This approach is perfect for those who simply want movement and exercise, as well as those looking to delve deeper into the art form. The instructors, like Lisa, are lauded for their wonderful ability to help students understand and experience music and movement in a fun, engaging way, suitable for both children and adults. Danspace believes in the power of multi-generational dance education, offering experiences where young and "not-so-young" can collaborate and move together.

Danspace is conveniently located at 473 Hudson St, Oakland, CA 94618, USA, nestled in the charming Rockridge neighborhood of Oakland. This prime location makes it highly accessible for residents throughout the East Bay and beyond. The studio is particularly handy to Highway 24, providing straightforward access for those driving from various parts of the Bay Area. For those utilizing public transportation, the Rockridge BART station is also within easy reach, offering convenient connections from San Francisco, Berkeley, and other regional cities. Additionally, several AC Transit bus lines serve the Rockridge area, ensuring that Danspace is well-connected and easily approachable for locals seeking dance instruction. The welcoming neighborhood adds to the overall positive experience of visiting this esteemed dance space.

Danspace offers a comprehensive range of classes and programs designed to cater to diverse ages, skill levels, and interests. Their curriculum is rooted in a philosophy that promotes healthy technique, artistic expression, and individual growth.

Services Offered:

• Children's Division Classes: Starting from age 3½ with Creative Movement, progressing to Ballet, Modern Dance, and Jazz for older children, focusing on age-appropriate, gently structured, and musically oriented instruction.
• Adult Division Classes: Including Ballet Fundamentals for true beginners, Beginning Ballet, Intermediate, and Advanced classes in Ballet, Modern, Modern Jazz, and Hip Hop, suitable for adults of all ages and body types.
• Dance for Parkinson's (Dance for PD®): A free, non-pressured, and social environment designed for individuals with Parkinson's, offering comfortable dance movements with live accompaniment, in association with the Mark Morris Dance Group.
• Summer Camps and Intensives: Providing immersive experiences during the summer, including programs like Beth Hoge Ballet Intensive and Corvino Weekend Workshops for intermediate and advanced dancers.
• Specialized Workshops: Focusing on various techniques and styles to deepen understanding and skill.
• Private Lessons: Offering personalized instruction for accelerated learning and specific skill refinement.
• Resident Company: Home to dNaga Dance Company, providing performance opportunities and a platform for artistic exploration.
• Informal Showings: Opportunities for students to share what they have learned throughout the year in a supportive, process-oriented setting.

The philosophy and approach at Danspace are highly valued by its community, creating an environment that fosters both technical mastery and a deep love for dance. Key features and highlights include:

Features and Highlights:

• Inspired by the Corvino Approach: Emphasizes a clean, classical technique free of mannerisms, with a strong focus on musicality, artistry, purity of line, balance, and coordination, leading to increased flexibility and strength.
• "Ballet for Real Bodies": A founding philosophy that encourages adults of all ages and body types to explore classical ballet without feeling overtaxed or judged.
• Highly Qualified and Experienced Instructors: Teachers draw from extensive backgrounds in dance education and performance, often with many years of dedication to Danspace.
• Non-Competitive, Supportive, and Nurturing Environment: Fosters empowerment through a strong self-image, focusing on individual growth rather than competition.
• Focus on Correct Technique and Mechanics: Ensures students build a strong, safe foundation for movement and dance.
• Multigenerational Dance Education: Provides opportunities for young and adult dancers to learn and move together, enriching the community.
• Welcoming Front Desk and Friendly Community: Creates an inviting atmosphere where new students feel comfortable and regulars are recognized.
• Creative Movement for Young Children: Gently introduces the fundamentals of dance through imaginative play, fostering a love for movement from an early age.
• Accessibility for Parkinson's Community: Offers specialized, free classes that provide significant physical and emotional benefits.
• Central Oakland Location: Conveniently located in Rockridge with good access to public transport and major roads.

Contact Information:

Address: 473 Hudson St, Oakland, CA 94618, USA

Phone: (510) 420-0920

Mobile Phone: +1 510-420-0920

For locals in California, especially those in Oakland and the greater Bay Area, Danspace is an exemplary choice for dance education and enrichment. It's particularly suitable for parents seeking a nurturing and developmentally appropriate environment for their children to begin their dance journey, emphasizing joy and creativity over rigid technical demands for young ones. Adults, whether absolute beginners or seasoned dancers, will find a welcoming space to learn ballet, modern, jazz, or hip hop, focusing on healthy technique and artistic expression regardless of age or body type. The unique Dance for Parkinson's program also makes it an invaluable community resource. Danspace is more than just a dance studio; it's a place where individuals can build confidence, connect with a supportive community, and experience the sheer exhilaration of moving their bodies, making it a perfect fit for anyone in California looking to embrace the art of dance.

Danspace

473 Hudson St, Oakland, CA 94618, USA