Danspace

Danspace offers ballet, jazz, modern, hip hop, choreography class, and more for children, adults, and dancers with Parkinson’s. Children’s classes begin at age 3 ½ and the adult program includes adult dancers of all ages and skill level.

Danspace is the only school in the Bay Area inspired by the Corvino approach which teaches a clean, classical technique free of mannerisms and an emphasis on musicality, artistry, balance, and coordination. This approach is based in natural movement and is taught in a way that is safe for all bodies. The classes at Danspace are rooted in creativity and artistry, supporting and fostering dancers of all ages to explore and express themselves.

Danspace is a dance school that has been operating in Oakland since 1976. Founded by Beth Hoge after her professional career in New York, Danspace offers ballet training that does not overtax the average body. The school was founded with the idea of encouraging adults of all ages to explore the art of classical ballet. Their full founding story is on their website.

In the classes, you’ll find a friendly and supportive environment that encourages dancers to move freely and explore dance technique at a developmentally appropriate level. The children’s classes begin with a focus on creative movement and allow dancers to build strength and flexibility as their technique advances.

Adult classes begin with Ballet Fundamentals, a class designed for true beginners, that gently introduces the foundational principles of ballet technique to prepare adult dancers to enter Beginning Ballet. The adult program offers beginning, intermediate, and advanced classes in ballet, modern, modern jazz, and hip hop. The Wednesday adult ballet class even has adult dancers beginning pointe for the first time.

In addition to traditional technique classes, Danspace is home to Dance for PD®, in association with the Mark Morris Dance Group and Brooklyn Parkinsons Group. Dance for PD® is free for all who attend and offers live accompaniment. No dance experience is necessary to join. Dance for PD® explores comfortable dance movements in non-pressured, social environment that energizes and empowers the participants. Click here to learn more about Dance for PD® and to sign up.

There is plentiful, free street parking in this neighborhood. Danspace is just a few blocks from the Rockridge BART station and Market Hall. If you’re considering dance classes for you or your child, visit Danspace for a trial class to help you make your decision. This neighborhood, family business is ready to welcome you to class!