When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
All About Dance
Why All About Dance is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
All About Dance, located at 501 W North Ave in Chicago, IL, is a well-established dance studio that has been serving the community for over 19 years. This studio offers a vibrant and welcoming environment perfect for meeting up with friends and enjoying a shared passion for dance. With a strong reputation evidenced by a high rating of 4.5 from 19 reviews, the studio provides various dance styles and classes that cater to different age groups and skill levels. The atmosphere is lively, supportive, and encouraging, making it an ideal place for both beginners and experienced dancers to grow their skills and express themselves creatively. The studio's convenient location in Chicago’s bustling area means easy accessibility and a great setting for social interaction beyond dance. Additionally, All About Dance is managed by Jessica Goldman and operates as an LLC, ensuring professional oversight and management. Whether you're interested in traditional dance styles, group rehearsals, or even exploring new modern dance techniques, All About Dance offers diverse programming and a community-oriented vibe that makes it a fantastic place to meet up, connect with others, and enjoy dance in a fun and friendly setting.
Here's what people think of All About Dance
As of recent, All About Dance holds a 4.5-star rating based on 19 reviews.
User reviews of All About Dance generally reflect a positive experience with the studio. Many reviewers highlight the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, praising the instructors for their professionalism and the variety of classes offered. Positive reviews commonly mention the friendly environment where students feel supported and motivated to improve their dance skills. The studio's ability to foster a sense of community has been a strong point noted by many patrons, making it not just a place for dance but also for social connection. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional scheduling issues and some concerns about communication or pricing. A few users have mentioned logistical aspects like class timing or enrollment processes that could be improved to enhance the overall experience. Despite isolated critiques, the overall consensus remains strong, with many recommending All About Dance for its skilled instructors, diverse class offerings, and friendly environment. The reviews indicate that the studio successfully balances quality dance education with community spirit, making it a reliable and enjoyable destination for dance enthusiasts in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
April Rawlings
I have been taking classes here for the past 3 months and absolutely love It! I definitely have my favorite instructors, especially Jessica. Her zest for life and passion for dance are inspiring and addicting. I love her class the most, she always gets me pumped for my day and ready to get my sweat on. I'm so happy I found this studio, changed my life and brought back my mommy feel good time.
Stephanie J
I'v taken the FYD 12 class with both Megan and Julia. The studio recommends having prior dance experience for this class and I couldn't agree more. Megan is a great instructor. She went at a quick pace but kept drilling the steps over and over again. The class is very high energy and intense as you run the dance multiple times for 4+ songs. I really enjoyed it and will definitely be back. Julia was amazing! Incredibly energetic, upbeat, and friendly. I will admit that I think she went a tad too fast for me to keep up, even for me a dancer of 18 years (with a 5 year hiatus), but honestly I had so much fun that I didn’t really care haha. I will definitely go back and take more classes with Julia.
Marchetta Genis
Warm and welcoming atmosphere and wide variety of classes for kid’s. Dance forever classes for adults are a super fun way to get a work out in without feeling like you are working out! Becca’s class is my favorite and if you are looking for an instructor to inspire and energize you while giving you a boost of confidence in yourself and making you feel comfortable take her class!
Connor Hahn
All About Dance is a great studio with classes for all ages. As a budding dancer, I feel that the teachers have supported me, and the owner, Jessica Goldman, is very involed with her students progress, even teaching classes herself. However, for a more serious dancer, All About Dance does not provide the intensive ballet training that you can find at other, more established studios.
Jane Janey
If you want to dance for exercise and socializing, I guess this place is ok. But if you are a young person who wants to get on the professional track, this is not the place. I was a professional dancer for years on the East Coast and in Texas, and this school kind of falls into the Dolly Dinkle School of Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Point, and Twirling category. Sorry. But, the best bet for serious students is Gus Giordano or the Joffrey Ballet School. If you cannot get in as a student, at least they can guide you in the right direction. Don’t waste your time or your future with this place. I mean, just look at the pictures. It is great that the kids are having fun, but the instruction is clearly not exactly into solid technique!
How to reach All About Dance
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Why All About Dance may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at All About Dance with your friends?
All About Dance is more than just a dance studio; it’s a vibrant community space that brings people together through the joy of movement and artistic expression. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or a complete beginner, this welcoming environment is perfect for gathering your friends, family, or colleagues to share a unique, fun, and energizing experience. The studio’s strong focus on fostering confidence, creativity, and independence means that everyone can enjoy their time regardless of age or skill level. When you choose All About Dance as your meetup spot, you’re not only participating in quality dance sessions but also immersing yourself in a collaborative and uplifting atmosphere that strengthens bonds among participants. Its reputation as an award-winning dance studio with professional instruction ensures that your group will have access to top-tier training that is both educational and entertaining. Additionally, celebrating milestone events or simply spending quality time in this lively setting creates memories rooted in shared laughter, movement, and accomplishment, making it an ideal destination to rally your social circle and connect in an active and joyful way.
What activities can you experience at All About Dance?
All About Dance offers a diverse array of dance classes and activities tailored to all ages and skill levels, making it a versatile venue for group meetups. Their wide-ranging curriculum includes tap, ballet, acro, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, lyrical, pointe, and more, providing numerous ways for you and your friends to explore different dance styles. Beyond single dance classes, the studio also produces Broadway-style professional productions, which offer exciting performance opportunities for groups who want to showcase their talents in a polished, stage-worthy environment. These productions serve as an inspiring focal point for teams or families, building camaraderie through shared rehearsal processes and onstage achievement. For those interested in more dynamic and competitive experiences, All About Dance hosts award-winning competitive programs, encouraging participants to challenge themselves in a supportive atmosphere. The studio warmly welcomes everyone—from toddlers just starting out to adults discovering dance for the first time—ensuring that your whole group can be accommodated, whether for lighthearted fun or serious dance training. You will find that each class combines technical training with engaging instruction, fostering a fun yet disciplined environment perfect for groups to grow together through movement.
Why is All About Dance perfect for group meetups?
All About Dance excels as a gathering place for groups due to its carefully cultivated family-like atmosphere and inclusive community vibe. The studio prides itself on its friendly, approachable instructors who are dedicated to making every session educational while maintaining a joyful, supportive tone. This creates an environment where friends and family members feel comfortable encouraging one another and celebrating each person’s progress. The spacious and well-equipped facilities provide ample room for group activities, allowing meetups to be flexible—from casual drop-in classes to planned private sessions or group workshops. Since the studio offers classes for a broad age range, multi-generational groups can attend together, turning your meetup into a shared family experience. Moreover, the emphasis on building confidence and pride through dance ties group members closer as they support each other’s achievements on and off the dance floor. Whether your goal is to have fun, learn a skill, or create lasting memories, All About Dance’s combination of expert instruction, inclusive programming, and warm community spirit makes it a standout choice for hosting your next friends’ or family gathering.
What can you expect from the instructors at All About Dance?
The instructors at All About Dance are a major reason this studio stands out as the ideal venue for group activities. These teachers are highly experienced, often bringing years of professional dance and performance training to their classes, which ensures that everyone receives quality instruction tailored to their skill level. They employ a proven syllabus that balances technical rigor with creativity, helping students develop strong fundamentals while enjoying each session. Importantly, the teaching style is designed to be encouraging and patient, making newcomers feel welcome and ensuring advanced dancers are continuously challenged. This supportive approach fosters a nurturing community where attendees feel motivated to push their boundaries together. For groups coming in for a meetup, the instructors’ ability to adapt lessons to various ages and abilities means that everyone in the party can participate and have a fulfilling experience. Their positive and engaging demeanor turns classes into lively, interactive events where team spirit and individual confidence flourish simultaneously.
How does All About Dance keep the experience fun and engaging?
One of the key strengths of All About Dance is how it blends serious dance training with a fun and lively atmosphere, perfect for groups looking not only to learn but also to enjoy their time together. Classes incorporate music, choreography, and movement games that stimulate creativity and keep energy high throughout the session. This playful component makes the learning process enjoyable and approachable even for those who might initially feel shy or unsure about dancing. The studio’s programming also includes special events and themed workshops that provide fresh, exciting experiences beyond regular classes, giving group gatherings a unique twist. Year-end productions offer a grand celebration of everyone’s hard work, culminating in professional-style performances that inject a sense of accomplishment and pride. Such experiences help groups bond through common goals and shared success. The diverse class offerings allow friends or family members to pick styles and sessions that best fit their interests, allowing each meetup to feel personalized and dynamic.
Can All About Dance accommodate your group for special occasions or events?
Absolutely. All About Dance is equipped to host group meetups for special occasions such as birthday parties, team-building events, or casual social gatherings focused on dance and movement. Their welcoming space and professional staff provide an ideal setting to celebrate milestones with a fun, active twist. Groups can collaborate with the studio to customize activities tailored to the theme or skill level of the participants, making your event as relaxed or as structured as desired. The professional production resources and experienced instructors also make the facility a great choice for groups interested in choreography showcases or private group lessons. With a built-in community feel, your event at All About Dance becomes more than just a party—it becomes an engaging, memorable experience that strengthens group connections through creative expression and shared joy. Whether gathering friends from nearby neighborhoods or organizing a family reunion, the studio’s flexible approach and comprehensive programming make it a premier destination for meaningful group events.
What makes All About Dance stand out among other dance studios?
All About Dance’s blend of quality, inclusivity, and community devotion sets it apart from typical dance studios. Its long-standing history since 1993 and reputation as an award-winning studio in Northeast Ohio reflect a deep commitment to excellence and student growth. The studio’s curriculum is comprehensive, covering a broad spectrum of dance styles with a clear focus on both technical skill and artistic development. Unlike many studios that focus purely on competition or performance, All About Dance equally values the personal growth, confidence building, and enjoyment of every participant. This dual emphasis attracts a diverse clientele ranging from toddlers to adults and casual learners to serious competitors. The sense of family they foster encourages lasting relationships between instructors, students, and their families, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere unmatched by more commercialized or rigid environments. For groups, this means a supportive place where everyone is encouraged and where the collective experience is just as important as individual achievement. This holistic approach to dance education makes All About Dance a truly special venue for meetups that blend fun, education, and community spirit.
How can you make the most of your visit to All About Dance with your friends?
To maximize your group’s experience at All About Dance, consider planning your visit around a shared interest or goal, such as trying out a new dance style together or preparing for an upcoming performance or recital. Booking a private group class or workshop can personalize the experience, allowing your instructor to tailor content specifically for your group’s age, experience, and preferences. Arriving early to socialize before class or sticking around afterward can extend the interaction, making the meetup more memorable and relaxed. Engage fully in the class activities, encouraging your friends to support one another and celebrate small wins along the way—this increases enjoyment and team bonding. Taking advantage of the studio’s special events, like themed workshops or seasonal showcases, can add an extra layer of excitement for your group. Finally, capturing photos or videos during your dance sessions can create lasting memories and inspire everyone to keep dancing long after the meetup ends. With thoughtful planning and openness to new experiences, your time at All About Dance will be an enriching and joyful occasion shared with your closest friends or family.