Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Information
What is Star Dance Studio?
Star Dance Studio, established in 1950, is a renowned dance school located in San Francisco, CA. It offers a wide range of dance classes for children, teens, and adults, focusing on various styles such as ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and more. See our About section for more information.
Classes & Registration
What types of classes are offered?
The studio offers classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, and musical theater. Classes are available for different age groups and skill levels, including special programs for young children and intensive sessions for advanced students.
How can I register for classes?
Registration for classes can be completed online. There is a seasonal registration fee for the first class, with a small registration fee for each added classes. Tuition payments are made in full or, if registered for two or more classes weekly, can be in two installments.
What level should my child enroll in? Should I base it on age?
At Star Dance, our curriculum is sequential, with each level building on the previous one. Enrolling in the appropriate level is crucial for your child’s progress. If you’re unsure, please start with a level I class or request a private assessment lesson by contacting our office. Our instructors can assess your child’s skills and recommend private lessons if needed to reach the proper level.
What if my child wants to drop the class after starting?
We understand that dance might not be the right fit for every child. While enrollment is for a 10-month period to help students progress and feel proud of their achievements, you can withdraw within the first 30 days. Just let us know in writing before the end of the 30th day of enrollment. Please note, the registration fee is non-refundable.
What is the dress code for classes?
The dress code varies by class and age group. For instance, pre-ballet and tap students typically wear pastel pink leotards and tights, while hip hop students will wear logo T-shirts and black joggers. The dress code for each class is listed in the class schedule. A PDF with the dress code for each class can be obtained on the Class Schedule page.
Can I choose a different brand of dance shoes than those recommended in the dress code?
We recommend specific brands for their reputation of quality and comfort. For other brands, check ballet shoes and ensure the pad under the toe area isn’t too thick or hard. For tap shoes, make sure the taps are smooth, polished, and produce a nice tone. The most important thing is that your child feels comfortable, so they can fully enjoy their dance experience!
Does a parent or caregiver need to stay during the session?
Parents typically drop off their child and return at the end of the class. There is a waiting area if you prefer to stay.
What if I want to sit in on my child’s class? She’s a little shy.
We understand that starting a new class can be a big step, especially for shy children. Our teachers are very experienced and skilled at helping kids feel comfortable and excited about dancing. On the first day, we ask parents to stay in the waiting area so the children can get to know the teacher and get used to the class environment. It’s important to talk positively about the class, as children can pick up on any anxiety and may feel more nervous.
Parents are welcome to observe the class once a month. We limit the number of observers per class to help children focus better and feel less self-conscious. We’re here to support your child’s journey and make their experience enjoyable!
Tuition & Fees
What are the tuition rates for the dance season?
Tuition rates depend on the number of classes taken. Detailed tuition information is available on the studio’s tuition page.
I’ve registered for one weekly class and am trying to pay tuition in 2 payments. I don’t see 1-class weekly in the drop-down menu – it starts at 2. Where’s the 1?
If your child is taking one class a week, only the full pay option is available. Please select the Tuition – 1 payment button. Students taking two or more classes per week have the option of selecting either the full pay or the 2-payments option.
Why do I need to register each new season if I already did last year?
Each season requires new registration to update your information and choose your classes for the upcoming term. This helps us keep everything current and tailored to your needs.
Are there any additional fees during the dance season?
There’s the registration fee, followed by tuition. There may be a small service fee for late payments. Additionally, in December or January, you’ll need to purchase a costume for our exciting end-of-season performance. A professional photo shoot is scheduled in May but the purchase of photos is optional. There may also be additional fees for extra character roles, company, and competition rehearsals.
Why is attendance so important?
Regular attendance is important for our student’s progress and the success of the entire class. Dance training builds week by week, and frequent absences can make it difficult for students to keep up with technique, choreography, and performance preparation. Please review the calendar carefully and keep important studio dates in mind when scheduling vacations and other activities.
Schedule & Calendar
When does the dance season start and end?
Each new dance season begins in September and ends in June, with various events and breaks throughout the year, including a winter break and spring break. Please check our online Calendar for special events and important dates.
What special events are scheduled for this season?
Get ready for an action-packed season! Join us for Halloween Week filled with fun and spooky surprises, our festive Winter Holiday Open House, community performances, dance competitions, and the grand finale – our spectacular annual recital at the prestigious Herbst Theatre in June!
Summer Programs
What summer programs are available?
During the month of July, Star Dance Studio offers Summer Camps for ages 6-18, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 AM to 4 PM. Registration is available by the first week of February.
The schedule for weekly one-hour classes for children and adults varies, and is posted on our website by the first week of February.
Parking & Transportation
What is parking like in the area?
Please be respectful of our neighbors and help us keep our students safe by parking in a legal parking space and walking your child into the building. To avoid traffic congestion and parking citations, please do not double park, idle in traffic lanes, or stop in designated bus zones. Younger children will only be dismissed to a parent or authorized guardian at the patio entrance and are not permitted to cross the street without an adult.
Which buses stop near the area?
Nearby buses include, N-Judah, 6 Hayes/Parnassus, 43 Masonic, and the 44 O’Shaughnessy.
Contact Information
How can I contact Star Dance Studio?
You can reach Star Dance Studio through the contact page on this website. The studio is located at 300 Moraga Street @ 9th Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94122. Our phone number is 415.564.1200.