For the past two months, I’ve been trying and loving different drop-in classes at Planet Dance Cincinnati.
Accurately described as a cutting-edge dance studio serving Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, and beyond, Planet Dance has classes for all ages. Kids, teens, and adults are welcome, with a range of difficulty levels from total beginner, to intermediate, to professional.
One aspect that works for both kids and adults with busy schedules is that you don’t have to make a long-term commitment to a full semester of courses if you don’t want to. Not everyone needs a structured schedule of multiple classes per week. You can register online or drop in on a variety of classes once a week, once a month, or whenever.
The fun variety of dance genres that are offered is also a big plus. There is ballet, hip-hop, contemporary, tap, musical theater, jazz, and more.
Two of my favorite classes thus far are adult contemporary and hip-hop classes at the beginner level. Right now these two are conveniently offered in side-by-side time slots every Saturday. As someone who has a small bit of dance background in community theater, I found these courses just challenging enough to be interesting, but not so difficult that I couldn't keep up.
And if you find yourself feeling just a little intimidated, keep in mind that I haven’t danced in a long, long time. Also, I’m pretty out of shape. Getting back into classes is helping me dust off my dance feet and get some flexibility and energy back, and I’m loving every moment of it.
See? That's me in the center, in red, trying her best and having a wonderful time doing so, despite not being perfect.
Note that masks are still being worn during dancing. There are lots of little kids taking classes here, so COVID-19 safety guidelines are very much in place. Dancing with a mask hasn’t been easy, but it’s honestly worth the inconvenience.
A Different Kind of Routine
Unlike teachers at other company studios, Planet Dance instructors provide new combinations in every class. That means you get to work on different techniques and learn new moves without getting behind if you decide you want to take a break from weekly classes.
Another appeal is the price point. Each class is $20. Plus, you get a discount if you buy a 10- or 20-class card.
Another amazing element I have to gush about is the dance instructors. Every teacher I’ve had has been fun and kind and completely non-judgmental. Whatever level you're at in your dance journey, these people are here to help you have a good time.
And, the instructors are real professionals. The staff includes teachers and guest choreographers who have worked on Broadway productions as well as with artists like Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, and Janet Jackson, to name a few. The teachers have industry experience, so you’ll receive some of the best dance training available in the region.
Dancing for Joy
Whether you just want to dance for fun and get fit like me, or you have a child or teen who wants some serious training before going into the college or industry professional level, Planet Dance is a great way to go.
There are also more intensive workshops you can join, as well as special wedding dance lessons for couples, if that’s something you’re looking for.
It’s not a bit intimidating once you get in the studio and start talking with some of the teachers and students. My fellow students in the adult beginner courses have been a joy to dance with. And the fact that the routines aren’t too easy gives us a challenge and a goal to work toward.
I hope to see more students like me take the leap and get their dance on once in a while. And this is definitely the place to do it!