The Beat

Welcome to The Beat, a true gem for dance enthusiasts located at 2560 Ninth St #119 in the vibrant city of Berkeley, California. For locals throughout the Bay Area, The Beat offers a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond typical dance instruction. As a non-profit educational and public benefit organization, The Beat is dedicated to using dance, music, and other forms of creative expression as a vehicle for cultural creativity, artistic expression, community development, and leadership. It’s a place where you can not only learn to move but also connect with a supportive community and rediscover your passion for dance.

The atmosphere at The Beat is consistently praised by its patrons. Reviews highlight the "sweet" community, the inviting "plants in the courtyard," and the "amazing" dance teachers. The studio itself is designed to enhance the dancing experience, featuring "great air circulation with pretty windows giving nice light and a welcome breeze when you are sweating—bc u will def sweat!" This thoughtful environment, combined with the caliber of its instructors, makes every class a fulfilling experience.

The Beat prides itself on offering an all-encompassing program of dance. You'll find a wide array of styles, catering to diverse tastes and skill levels. Whether you're drawn to the fiery rhythms of Salsa, the elegant steps of Tango, the expressive movements of Afro-Cuban and Brazilian dance, or the classic foundations of Ballet and Jazz, there's a class waiting for you. The presence of master teachers, such as Susana Arenas Pedroso, an internationally recognized Cuban folkloric and popular dancer, is a significant highlight. One student exclaimed, "It is such a privilege to have a master dance teacher like Susana!!" attesting to the high quality of instruction.

Beyond the excellent classes, The Beat fosters a sense of belonging that many students cherish. One reviewer shared, "Lovely community with amazing teachers and affordable class prices. I literally wouldn't be able to survive without this space. It is part of my main self-care routine!" This sentiment underscores the studio's role as more than just a dance facility; it's a vital part of its members' well-being and a testament to the strong, supportive bonds formed within its walls. The Beat is committed to inclusivity, striving to overcome cultural and economic barriers by offering affordable classes, sliding scales, scholarships, and a work-exchange program, ensuring that dance remains accessible to all.

For Californians seeking a welcoming, diverse, and high-quality dance experience, The Beat truly lives up to its name, providing a pulsating hub of rhythm and community right in Berkeley.

Location and Accessibility

The Beat is conveniently situated at 2560 Ninth St #119, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA. This West Berkeley location makes it easily accessible for residents throughout Berkeley and the wider East Bay region, including neighboring cities like Oakland, Emeryville, and Richmond.

Ninth Street is part of Berkeley's dynamic industrial and artistic West Berkeley district, an area known for its creative spaces, workshops, and local businesses. The studio's position offers practical accessibility via various transportation methods. For those using public transportation, AC Transit bus lines operate in the vicinity, with stops typically within a comfortable walking distance. While not directly adjacent to a BART station, the North Berkeley and Ashby BART stations are a reasonable distance away, allowing for a short bus connection or a brisk walk to reach the studio. This offers flexibility for commuters from across the Bay Area.

For individuals driving, street parking is generally available in the area, though as with many parts of Berkeley, it's advisable to allow some extra time to find a spot, especially during peak class times. The area is largely industrial with a growing number of residential and commercial spaces, which can make parking a bit easier than in more densely packed urban centers. The ground-level access to the studio within a building complex makes it convenient for arrival. The overall location in West Berkeley provides a distinctive, artsy vibe that contributes to the unique character of The Beat.

Services Offered

• Diverse Dance Classes: A comprehensive program offering various dance forms including Salsa, Tango, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian Dance, Swing Dance, Jazz, Samba, Haitian Folkloric, Ballet, Rhythm Tap, Contemporary, Hip Hop, West African, Tai Chi, Capoeira, Yoga, Soul Line Dance, and Zumba.
• Classes for All Levels: Catering to a wide range of skill levels, from absolute beginners to advanced dancers, ensuring everyone can find a suitable class.
• Adult and Youth Programs: Offers programs for young people, adults, seniors, and children, making dance accessible to all ages.
• Live Music Classes: Some classes feature live musical accompaniment, enhancing the authentic experience, particularly for Latin and folkloric dance forms.
• Workshops and Master Classes: Special intensives and workshops led by renowned guest instructors and resident faculty to deepen dance knowledge and skills.
• Online Classes: Provides online Zoom classes and access to extended outreach programs, ensuring continued access to dance education, especially as a response to evolving needs.
• Outdoor Classes: Incorporates outdoor classes when feasible, offering alternative settings for movement.
• Affordable Pricing: Committed to addressing economic barriers by offering affordable class prices, sliding scales, scholarships, and a work-exchange program.
• Performance Opportunities: While primarily educational, the studio's focus on artistic expression may lead to performance opportunities or showcases.
• Community and Leadership Development: Utilizes dance as a vehicle for broader community and leadership development beyond just dance technique.

Features / Highlights

• Non-Profit Organization: The Beat, Berkeley Performing Arts, Inc. is a non-profit educational and public benefit organization, emphasizing its mission of cultural creativity and community.
• Master Dance Teachers: Features highly acclaimed instructors like Susana Arenas Pedroso, ensuring high-quality and culturally rich instruction.
• Vibrant and Supportive Community: Consistently praised by students for its welcoming, sweet, and supportive community atmosphere.
• Diverse Dance Styles: Offers an incredibly wide array of dance forms, catering to a broad range of interests and ensuring there's something for everyone.
• Inclusive Environment: Actively works to overcome cultural and economic barriers through affordable pricing, scholarships, and work-exchange programs.
• Excellent Studio Environment: Features a comfortable studio with good air circulation, natural light from windows, and a pleasant courtyard with plants.
• Focus on Cultural Expression: Classes often delve into the cultural and historical background of dance forms, enriching the learning experience.
• Central West Berkeley Location: Easily accessible within Berkeley and the wider East Bay area, with options for public transport and street parking.
• Promotes Holistic Well-being: Recognized by students as a key part of their self-care routine, highlighting its positive impact on mental and emotional well-being alongside physical health.

Contact Information

Address: 2560 Ninth St #119, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA

Phone: (510) 843-2328

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across California, particularly those in the vibrant Berkeley and broader Bay Area, The Beat stands as an indispensable local resource for dance, community, and personal well-being. This unique non-profit organization offers far more than just dance classes; it provides a supportive ecosystem for cultural exploration and self-expression.

Its accessible location at 2560 Ninth St in West Berkeley makes it a convenient destination for a diverse local population. With reasonable access via public transportation and street parking, integrating dance into a busy Bay Area lifestyle is made straightforward. This ease of access is crucial for fostering consistent engagement and building a strong, active community.

What truly makes The Beat suitable for locals is its profound commitment to inclusivity and the sheer breadth of its offerings. Whether you're a seasoned dancer looking for a specific style like Afro-Cuban or Rhythm Tap, or a complete beginner curious about Salsa or Ballet, The Beat has a class for you. The presence of master teachers, combined with genuinely affordable pricing and a welcoming approach to all skill levels and backgrounds, ensures that quality dance education is accessible to everyone in the community. Students consistently praise the warm, supportive atmosphere and the sense of belonging they find here, often describing it as a vital part of their self-care routine.

In essence, The Beat is a cultural hub where locals can not only hone their dance skills but also connect with a vibrant community, learn about diverse cultures through movement, and improve their overall physical and mental well-being. It's a place where you can sweat, learn, grow, and truly feel the beat of Berkeley's unique artistic spirit. For anyone in the California region seeking a meaningful and joyous dance experience, The Beat is an absolute must-visit.

The Beat

2560 Ninth St #119, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA