Cathy’s Dance Studio

I am writing to you to express the deep gratitude that my family has towards the services you provide for the youth in my community. My child initially attended your school for the Winter Session 2015. From the time I registered my child I noted the professionalism and kindness of the staff. I brought her weekly for ballet and tap lessons. Initially I was apprehensive concerning her just turning 3 years old. I wasn’t sure if she could follow the instructions being that she was so young. With each passing week she became more confident and graceful. On June 14, 2015 my child celebrated her very first dance recital; I was over whelmed by the professionalism and creative choreography!!! Each performance was excellent. Each dancer was poised and well prepare. The production was creative, esthetically beautiful, and well choreographed. The lighting was extravagant; the costumes were gorgeous; and the dancers were graceful and meticulously trained. Furthermore, the costumes and choreography was age appropriate.
It has been such a pleasure to have my child trained by you. I look forward to my child attending classes with your studio this Autumn.

Full disclosure. I have produced and performed theater professionally in NYC and I am a mom, so my review is from both perspectives.
PROFESSIONALLY:
As some of the other reviewers have stated, the Lobby is truly «old school» and does feel dated. There are photos lining the walls from 59 years ago through now, and the chairs have been there for a while. It is organized with cubby’s for kids to stow their personal items while in class, coatrack, a mirror, a restroom, and they have a small «store» where you can grab a beverage or dance supplies if needed, and a reception counter for communication with parents, payments and all the business side of class. I am not exactly sure what else you «need» in a lobby experience? A friend of mine who is a professional choreographer came to the studio with me one day and said, «I can’t believe this type of studio still exists in New York. Fabulous!» It reminded him of his earlier days in dance before press releases and pressure. When dancing was just fun. Before it paid for his condo. So to those who care about a lobby, I would say this… Could you sit and wait for your children on a newer chair? Yes. Having worked in rehearsal studios for professional work all over this city, I can tell you, the lobby is more than equipped in comparison to some broadway rehearsal studios. It’s all about perspective. Those fancy lobbies mean higher prices for classes. Cathy’s is very well priced. I hope they never change the lobby. So. There.
The dance classroom is very well equipped. I have rehearsed professionally in far less «professional» spaces. The teachers know how to dance properly and know how to teach dance properly. So if you care about technique for a competitive child, it’s properly and professionally taught.
AS A MOM:
You are given info sheets with instructions, schedules, and checklists. If you simply read them, and follow them, very little is required on your part for a smooth experience. They are organized and thorough. And again, the price structure is good. You pay a bit more for costumes and pictures, but those things are optional. You can opt out of both picture day and the recital if you choose. But, even if you do choose to go «all in» collectively as a whole, the pricing is great.
My daughter is incredibly shy and easily overwhelmed in groups. And it’s heartbreaking. She will often «miss out» on fun experiences due to this issue. We wanted to start her in dance for socialization, listening to a teacher, discipline and of course, learning to dance. She loves to dance at home. The teachers and Miss MIchelle were incredibly accommodating and patient. And, they encouraged not only my daughter, but me as a mom when we first started class. «She’ll get there. Give it time. She’s ok. We’ve got her. You’ll see» And, the first time she walked up those stairs to the classroom by herself, the teachers cheered and clapped, literally. I doubt if we were at another studio, we would have had that experience. I think we would have been told «come back when she’s older.» So now, instead of crying begging NOT to go to class, she says «I get to go to Ballet!» with excitement. Score.
RANDOM:
In relation to the other review which stated there was a dog in the studio and the music was «too loud.» First, let’s talk about the dog issue. I have never seen a dog in the studio. However, I have seen a lot of cats in bodegas, dogs in hospitals, airports, libraries, and parks. Perhaps this is again a perspective issue. My world would not end if I saw a dog at a dance studio. Sadly, I haven’t seen one though. Just sayin’. Second, there will be MUSIC AT A DANCE STUDIO. For solitude, try a reading circle at a library or a meditation class. If you don’t want to hear music in the morning, I suggest avoiding dance studios, music lessons, and malls. Cuz even malls play music.
VERDICT:
Two thumbs up. If you are looking for a studio, give Cathy’s a try. You just might find something special.

Started taking my daughters to this studio 19 years ago and now I am back with my Granddaughter. We tried another studio last year in our neighborhood, and while they were nice, they did not compare with Cathys Dance Studio. I find that the children are taught with compassion, professionalism, and passion. Class time is enough for them to have time to warm up and learn how to dance. The staff is always pleasant and take the time to interact with each child and their parent (s). While the waiting area for the parents may not be the most modern, the upstairs studios are fantastic. The children are able to learn without interruption or distraction. I like that the school allows children to try classes before committing to them. My Granddaughter starts her class at 10:00am and I never found the music in the waiting area to be too loud or inappropriate. The shows that are put together are always fabulous and we are looking forward to seeing our second generation take the stage. We must travel to get here, but it is definitely worth the trip. If you are looking for your child to learn to dance correctly and have a wonderful experience learning, then this is the studio for you. I would definitely recommend this to all my friends and family.

Took my daughter here last year for a free trial class. Parking was super easy on a Saturday. Place was pretty small and an old school type of place. Parents were able to wait downstairs while the kids took the class upstairs. Loud, freestyle music was blaring in the waiting room. Now, I love freestyle music –but at 9am it is a bit much. Dance room was old and seemed to be falling apart. Staff was nice enough. The major issue was that they allowed the owners dog to freely walk around the rooms. What is up with that? You have children and adults with allergies, and you have a loose dog walking around? That’s a deal breaker for me. Did not sign my daughter up here.