Joffrey Academy of Dance

I can see their adult classes being beneficial if you’re more advanced and know what you’re doing but potentially harmful for those starting out and not being properly trained. I’ve been trained in ballet for a good portion of my young life but wanted to get back into it after a few years since quitting. My body is not in the most conditioned state so I tried out their adult beginning ballet class. If you do take a class I recommend arriving early because the line to sign-​up and pay for classes gets crowded easily since there is only one attendant. The staff is not the friendliest but they get the job done. If you’re hoping these ballet classes are set up like traditional group fitness classes where the instructors are gregarious, welcomes beginners and pay extra attention to them first time around then these classes are not for you. Their classes are set up like traditional ballet classes which basically means fast-​paced choreographies of barre and floor work. The Joffrey instructors are trained dancers but terrible teachers. There was very little form correction and personal help. There doesn’t seem like a strong distinction between the different class levels since the beginning class I took had quite a few advanced movements and choreography. For it being a beginners class there was no emphasis on practicing proper technique– everyone was just going through the motions. As someone who really wanted to rediscover the technique and form properly in a more helpful and attentive setting the Joffrey was not a good studio fit.

Gorgeous space! Fun experience but the basic ballet class was (IMO) too large and too fast paced. As someone who has never taken a ballet class in her life, I would have appreciated an even more basic-​basic class. Overall, great for people watching and a fun Saturday morning activity with friendsies.

Spectacular ballet classes in the loop with the best view that any dance studio in Chicago has. The training is good, pricing is mutually the same as every other place.
Mostly for the adult open there isn’t any graduation of levels, so my friends cannot take the basic and progress as much as they would somewhere else. I thoroughly enjoyed the advanced classes here.
Out of all the studios I’ve been to in Chicago this one feels the most impersonal, but that’s probably because I spend all my time at LCDS or Ruth Page and haven’t gotten to know the culture of the Joff.

For the adult open classes, it is clear that there is no school-​wide coordination or curriculum. For instance, any reasonable person would expect basic ballet («An introduction to ballet technique, no previous experience is required.») to be easier than beginner ballet («Appropriate for students with basic understanding and knowledge of ballet technique and that have taken basic ballet.»), right? And one could reasonably assume that one would take basic ballet, then beginner, then possibly repeat beginner to work on turnout and flexibility, then move on to intermediate, etc…
Not at Joffrey, apparently, because there is no authority making sure that the classes are taught to any standards.
I dropped in in the middle of the semester for basic ballet a little over a year ago and felt way over my head («this is basic?» I asked the girl next to me). I vowed to come back and take it from day one and I finally did last Sunday.
The teacher, Kate R, was a little late, which I’m not complaining about because so was I and a little lateness in downtown Chicago is expected. But there were no introductions, no welcomes, no nothing. It started so suddenly and without explanation, just a deluge of ballet terms and positions, right from the beginning. I walked out of the class during one of the barre exercises to go to reception to make sure that I had been put in the right studio. When I was told that I was indeed, I told them that I was under the impression that basic ballet required no ballet experience. They looked at who was teaching it and said «oh well you have Kate, yeah she goes kind of fast, we’ve talked to her about it but yeah that’s just the way she teaches.» Fast? Fast is explaining something once and moving on. She doesn’t explain anything so I guess she’s so fast she’s teaching in the future where you already know ballet. They also justified the class structure because «a lot of the students have been coming for years». Coming for years. To basic. Well… really, they’re coming to /​Kate/​because if this class was actually taught as a basic ballet class, they would have moved on already.
The girls at reception recommended I take a different teacher (no, Sunday works for me, Saturday doesn’t) or the beginner class that runs at the same time, which according to them is slower than basic. Because that makes sense… I advised them that I don’t know ballet. I don’t know what the positions are. They said oh, talk to Kate, she’s very nice.
So I talked to Kate during a break… and to her credit, she is very nice, but that doesn’t make her a good basic ballet teacher, sorry. I explained to her that I didn’t understand any of the terms. I think she thought I was hung up on the translations because she said «well they’re all in French, you don’t need to know them, you’ll catch on after a few classes». But… yeah… I don’t care if the words are in French, Japanese, or some language she made up, I don’t need to know what they translate to (which I actually do know somewhat, as I did take some French in high school), I need to know what body movements they’re connected to. She advised me that this is the way all ballet classes are taught «even classes with little kids» are not given a breakdown of what the positions are. I’m pretty sure that’s absolutely bullshit. She also said that some of her students have been with her for two years so that’s why it seems like everyone else knows what’s going on (just what a beginner wants!). It’s obvious «Beginner Ballet» is just a euphemism for «Kate Rowan Class». She told me I could go to
and look up the ballet terms there and watch the videos. Once class started up again she gave a similar announcement about
to the whole class.
Because, obviously, you should go learn basic ballet somewhere else so you can go to Joffrey to learn basic ballet because that just makes the utmost sense and is exactly what anyone would expect to do…
So… I don’t know what I’m going to do. This is a very accessible dance class for me during a time that I have open (I go to school full time, work 2 jobs, and homeschool my 5 year old son so free time is at quite the premium) and I’ve always wanted to learn ballet. What do I do? Keep going? Just learn from youtube? Go to the beginner class that runs at the same time? Dunno… can’t decide. I’m making a stink about it, though, and I don’t think it’ll change anything but I’m not gonna feel bad about it either because I don’t think it’s unreasonable to expect some basic ballet instruction in a basic ballet class.

If you’re looking for a fun adult dance class, definitely go to Joffrey ballet! The instructors are awesome, and very friendly. Great energy. I’ve been taking the hip hop class and it’s refreshing to get the opportunity to learn dance combinations and perform them through! It really is fun! Try it out!

Best training in Illinois. Literally no studio tops Joffrey. I don’t care what any one says: Joffrey is the best studio bar none as far as the Midwest is concerned.

Dance class? Yes, please! I’m a thirty something former dancer and have thought about taking classes at the Joffrey Academy for some time. I finally was able to attend the Adult Jazz class. I am so glad I did. The instructor, Francisco, was thorough, attentive, and exceptionally helpful. The class consisted of a center warm up, across the floor exercise, and combination. This was also a true adult class during my time in the facility although the youth program was finishing up in the other studios. The facility itself was beautiful as others had mentioned. The class was a perfect blend of technique and artistry that beginners and experienced dancers could enjoy. I will be back and encourage you to come as well!

REmember, the teachers are NOT members of the Joffrey. The few classes I took the teachers sat on a stool, gave instructions and just sat there instead of actually showing and teaching. For ballet they were just sitting and watching. Not the place to go to if you want to learn. But if you want to see a beautiful space and pay to see it, then go. Apart from that, the instruction is offensive and to be associated with the Joffrey should make the namesake feel ashamed.

This review is for the dance classes my little ones take at Joffrey. They are in the child division, but their is also a youth division and a pre-​professional as well as a professional division. I have no illusions that they will become professional dancers, honestly I would be surprised if they were even proficient dancers, but I believe that the structure and discipline they receive under the warm, but firm guiding hand of «Miss Trish» will serve them well as they continue on their journey towards adulthood. In addition to that discipline, I love that they are learning to experience joy in movement. Add to that the pink leotards and the ballet slippers and the whole gestalt of being at the Joffrey, and I can say that this is one of the best classes your children can take in the city. If you are not lucky enough to live in walking distance, they offer discounted parking at a nearby parking facility. The classes are reasonably priced, for the children’s division at least, and they are very easy going with make up classes.

I’m still taking classes at the Joffrey Academy, and I’ve fallen in love with this place. Francisco’s jazz class is amazing – I love his musicality, and it’s a privilege to learn from him. Dantriell’s hip hop class is always high-​energy and fun. Everyone is so friendly, and this place feels like a second home. I feel so lucky to have it in my neighborhood.

This place is great! Bright, spacious studios, and i absolutely love Marcella’s classes. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and everyone seems to be having a great time. The piono players are awesome!

I took a beginning jazz class here soon after it opened, and to be honest I was not such a fan. However, I came back and started going to hip hop classes after I moved further away from my favorite dance school, Joel Hall Dance up in Edgewater, and I’ve really enjoyed those. I’ve taken classes with both Kasper and Dantriell, and I thought both did a great job with super-​fun choreography and music. They both led solid, well-​prepared classes that I thought were appropriate for a class with a mix of levels.
It’s true that the Joffrey doesn’t have quite the same warm, community vibe of a place like Joel Hall. It is the Joffrey, after all. On the bright side, the dressing room is gorgeous and so are the windows overlooking State Street. Another plus is that the Joffrey’s location is perfect for me to get there after work in the Loop.
I wish they had more offerings in the 7pm range for folks like me who work on the later side.
I’m surprised that there are a couple reviewers who were so turned off by having a smaller group perform the combination for the class. I’ve been in many dance schools where this is done, and I did not take it as an insult to me but rather as an opportunity to learn and to run through the combo in my head. Videotaping combos is also something that’s becoming more common in the age of Youtube.
I actually found the class environment to be friendly and open, despite the fact that a lot of them were clearly regulars who knew each other well.
I’ll definitely be back!

It’s hard to believe it’s been three years since my last review here! In the meantime, I’ve taken lots of classes here. The Joffrey Ballet classes continues to be a great experience everytime I go. I’ve taken Ballet, tap, jazz, BeMoved, and Keep Fit Ballet here. Jazz and Ballet are the stand outs. I believe Kim Sagami taught the beginning ballet class I took this evening and it was amazing. A great class with a big focus on barre and accompied by pretty showtunes, Kim gave great technique corrections as well.
The building and views are gorgeous and The staff is professional and the drop in rates are reasonable at $ 15 each. Brava Joffrey, keep it up!

Profile: I’m not your professional dancer and I’m not trying to be, which led me to the Adult Open Dance Classes here at Joffrey. I danced plenty when I was younger (and now I’m only in my mid-20’s and in pretty good shape) so knew I could hold my own in a class that was designated for those at all levels.
I took a few hip-​hop classes here and overall had an «OK» experience but there was something «off» about this place. First of all, everyone there, both staffers and dancers, had kind of an almighty air about them. (I’m sorry your turnout lended you a beating by some too-​tightly-​wound hairpiece dance instructor but no need to act self-​righteous!)
The classes were overall pretty fun and the choreography was decent. Nothing to write home about though. Usually at the end of the class, we had the opportunity to run through it 4 or 5 times but here was my ultimate issue: the class ended with the instructor pulling out 5 or 6 «stars» of the class to perform for the rest of the participants and so he could video the dance. While the hour you just paid for should be spent having a good time, no matter your skill, this weird display of favoritism usually led to the «not-​chosen» members feeling crappy. I’ve taken classes at Ailey and Broadway Dance Center in NYC and, even while the caliber of dancing is second to none, they would NEVER pull a snotty stint like that.
*Finally, as a dedicated Unilocaler who writes for the greater good, it disturbs me that they are offering a Free Class for everyone who «writes a Unilocal review» and then sends it in. Talk about stuffing the ballot box… (minus one star)

I’ve only taken Ballet Fit classes. The facility is fantastic and I love the loop location. Its a fast pace class and good to have previous ballet training. However, I do not, and while I’m lost a lot of the time, the teachers are encouraging, complementary, and patient with me while keeping the class moving along for the more advanced students. If you are looking for a serious Fitness Ballet class. This is it!

My, how the time has passed! Thanks to Ballet Fit, I’ve got my sexy back (toned frame). Yeah!
I swear, dancing is what keeps me sane and I’ve gone to great lengths to attend the class at noon on Monday and Wednesday for the past 3 years. I had a special arrangement with my manager at work to be able to attend and even at one point was using vacation time!
Even though Ballet Fit is a beginner level class, it is still challenging, and Jocelyn, the instructor, always comes with new combination/​variations on and off the barre each week. This way, it keeps us on our toes (literally) and class doesn’t become predictable drudgery.
After taking years of classes at other studios, I still wasn’t able to hold a passé on releve. My body and mind just weren’t clicking (we’ll blame it on age, as I’m an older dancer knocking on 40!) However, Jocelyn was able to explain what my body/​muscles should be doing/​feeling and now I’m able to camp out on retierre (sp?). Now that’s awesom teaching when I can see progression in my dancing ability. My turns and overall technique have improved so much that I have even had fleeting – I said fleeting– thoughts of taking a Ballet 2 class.

Awesome dance school! I’ve had a wonderful experience taking basic ballet classes at the Joffrey. I’ve had the opportunity to meet many of the teachers and staff and found them to be very friendly and approachable. I am an oriental dancer and am at the point now that I really need ballet classes in order to become a better dancer. The basic ballet class on Saturdays is very popular and has a lot of students. Oh, the price is very affordable and I love the location of the school. It is very hard to resist shopping in the area right after class.

I took a class here last weekend for the first time (musical theater dance master class — amazing) and it’s a fabulous studio (but really, would you expect anything less from the Joffrey?)
— The locker rooms and bathrooms (women’s at least) are nice and clean, and ample sized
— The studios are fabulous and overlook downtown Chicago. I could get used to taking barre and looking out at the Chicago Theater or ABC studios
— There are lots of benches in the halls to relax on before/​after/​between classes
— The hallways are lined with gorgeous photos of dancers
— Everyone is really friendly
— Professional and college student discounts ($ 10 and $ 13, respectively, I believe)
— A variety of classes offered at different times to fit into your schedule.
I will be back, but probably not for awhile… I bought two groupons for Visceral and Lou Conte, so I should use those up before I pay for more classes.

I have to say no. This trumps my awful experience at Academy of Dance in San Francisco because despite being deceitful jerks, at least they had quality classes.
I couldn’t find this place and ran up and down State Street for a good 30 minutes, thanks to the guy at Russian Pointe (review to follow…) who told me the school was on State Street. It’s not, it’s on Randolph. I arrived 7 minutes late for the Intermediate Open class. I was told the cut-​off for tardiness was *SEVEN MINUTES* and that as such I would not be allowed into the class. I waited an hour and a half for the beginner class. Now, I wasn’t looking forward to it being that I’m not a beginner whatsoever, but many an advanced dancer can work on basics and get a lot from it in beginner classes, so I figured I would still give it a go. What a waste of my 15 dollars. It would have done more good to my dancing if I’d taken that 15 bucks and bought a Mcdonalds’ Big Mac meal with it instead! (note sarcasm).
So I wait for the class along with a few other people– no one says hello or even looks at you. I don’t like being bothered by chit chat too often, so that’s fine. I listen to my iPod. Everyone looks snotty. We go into the studio– good god it is TINY. Walk 5 large steps and you have walked the entire span of the studio. That is not good for grand allegro, not good at all. I pick a spot at the barre. I notice that everyone is adequately dressed for a ballet class (unlike the San Francisco open classes crowd) and am pleased by that. That’s about all I’m pleased by, though. There are 2 students from Joffrey’s pre-​professional programs, and the rest are a mix of young and old beginner dancers. A girl walks in late– I check the clock. The class started 10 minutes ago. Oh, I see. That «7 minute rule» is subjective. Thanks, ass at the reception desk with the big glasses.
The class is an hour and a half. The teacher does not look at what *anyone* is doing. So much so that 2 women started with the wrong hand on the barre, facing the wrong way, and the teacher didn’t notice it until the end of the exercise, meaning the 2 women had to do the same side twice and never got to do the second side. For a class of barely 15 people, the teacher not noticing something so glaringly obvious (that even I noticed AS I was dancing) is pathetic. She’s there to teach and correct, not take a barre class with us. But that’s what she was doing– her own exercises without looking at anyone else. Sad.
The barre consisted for 4 exercises: plié, tendu, rond de jambe a terre, frappes. Then barre was over. Where were the degages? Fondues? Developes? Rond de jambe en l’air? No decent barre is 4 exercises long, but this teacher took so long to come up with a combination. then relay it to the students, then mess up and/​or change her mind, then play the wrong music, then chit chat with the class (most of it was spent telling her our names and her repeating them ALL after each combination…) that these 4 exercises took a full hour.
The center consisted of 2 combinations. She «decided» to skip adagio. WTF? No adagio=no class. We did 1 «pirouette preparation combination» twice, then 8 jumps once, and the center was done. No adagio, no petit allegro, no actual pirouettes, nothing, nothing, nothing.
Then we had 1 exercise across the floor which consisted of pas de chats across the floor once (in a room so small 3 pas de chats got you across). She gave the 2 pre-​professional kids a «harder» (lol) exercise and she hadn’t looked at me a single time since class started so she didn’t offer I try it despite my clearly being at a higher level than the 2 pre-​professional 13 year olds. I asked if I could do it, and lo and behold I was the only one who actually got the combination right. Urgh.
Then, class was over, and I stayed behind in the studio running through real combinations and double pirouettes. Saddest class I have ever had. The teacher didn’t even thank me for coming or say goodbye. In fact she never acknowledged that I was there, and when she did, she called me by the wrong name.
The 2 pre-​professional kids (the girl was on pointe) had awful, sloppy technique and couldn’t remember any combos. They had bad positions, no port de bras or epaulement, and no presence or joy of dance. Because of this, I doubt their pre-​professional program is any better.
It’s a shame, because I love the company. But realistically, I don’t think too many of their company dancers actually came from their school. I would skip this one despite the «prestige» of dancing at the Joffrey studios. Dancing here sort of feels like getting robbed, but instead of getting robed by a transient you got robbed by a celebrity. A funny story over cocktails, sure, but an awful class regardless. They don’t even have a live pianist. The open classes feel like «the trash» of the school.
Also, to those people who say the studios are nice– the new studios at Ballet Chicago are much better.

We all know how beautiful the space is. We all love Fabrice Calmels leaping across the stage. The Children’s Program leaves much to be desired.
With a whole slew of professional dancers under their roof. None of them teach classes there. Why?
My daughter has taken Saturday classes here while she participated in their Nutcracker program. Things like a teacher not showing up and the front desk person leaving with the kids unsupervised has happened. Things like having no class to make-​up a missed class in except in a lower level happen. For the money that I paid out that is unacceptable.
Give them another 4 years and their kids program may be something to scream about, but until than no thanks!