The Movement Center

Love this place. We're in tap dancing, tumbling, and ballet. Super friendly and supportive teachers. Very caring, patient, kind, but yet expecting discipline from the students. They work with kids as young as 3, I think and all with the patience of a saint - they can put up with crying, stubborn behavior, fear, hesitation, with a smile on their face and a heart of gold! And Ms Shinogu brings great discipline into the class and doesn't put up with nonsense but she does it in a way that is extremely nurturing and caring. She really wants to support all of the students to be the best of themselves. The Tumbling classes can be hard to get into so if you're interested in tumbling, sign up as soon as class registration opens.Ms Gina was very understanding when we were first starting and helped us navigate our way through the classes and now we're there 3 times a week. One tough thing is that participating in the summer performance is very expensive and somewhat cost prohibitive between the participation fee, costume fees, volunteer requirement, and ticket prices. However, dance students are not required to participate in the performance and can still completely participate in the regular classes!The one awful thing about this place is the parking. 1) there is a free lot (register for 1 hour free, after that it's paid) across the small street but it's so hard to find a stall because it's shared with a lot of other places, the stalls are small, and so many cars can't park within the lines, 2) they can ticket you, even if you have paid - they did rescind it but only after I took the time to figure out how to dispute it, 3) there are a few street parking spaces up the hill but hard to get, 4) you can park at the municipal lot but have to allocate enough time to walk across the street, and sometimes that lot is full.

It took me a long time to decide to write this review. Our issue is with the teacher who teaches pre ballet and younger kids 3 and older. Before class would begin, I noticed that Maggie would prefer to be on her phone looking at it and scrolling through it instead of looking up to smile and acknowledge the kids (4 to 5 year olds) as they entered the studio. I became extremely upset after I observed again the same teacher not even acknowledge my 5 year old upon returning from being absent as we were away 3 weeks on vacation. There were only 6 kids in the class yet she was continually ignored until the teacher ultimately was coerced into giving every kid attention at some point bc she had to correct or instruct them as they danced. Though I was very upset, I calmly went to the office and sought out management (Gina) as well as another teacher named Allison right when it happened. I was promised that this wouldn't happen again. As young kids and their parents were present, I didn't want to make anyone uncomfortable by causing a dramatic scene by having a public confrontation. However, I brought it privately to their attention as the kids were not even being acknowledged and not being treated as though they were all equally valued and respected. I decided to give management a chance to resolve and rectify what had happened.Fast forward 7 full days later nothing had changed. My child was ignored AGAIN while she entered the studio and was not even offered a greeting or any kind of attention. I then saw the teacher give certain kids reassuring attention and smiled/played with them while she totally ignored others. That's when I've decided I've had enough n I withdrew my child completely. I went to the office livid, but remained calm where the staff apologized and gave me no explanation for why this was not addressed. I've told Gina to her face that shes an excellent teacher and one of the best that I've ever seen. We had Gina last session, she's high energy, loves kids regardless of their age or skill level, and is excited and happy to see each and every child the moment they walk through the door. I flat out told Gina that she needs to train all her staff to be just like her because that is how all students need to be treated.I understand that TMC is busy with competitions and performances as things can get hectic. However, ensuring that all the kids (especially the little ones) feel included and showing them that they all matter equally is way more important. I have NEVER asked nor do I EXPECT any special treatment for my child. All I want and expect is for her and everyone else to be treated fairly. It's not unreasonable to ask that my child and everyone else is greeted and is given (at minimum some) attention. I will say that I do appreciate Patrice Li, the President of the Board of Directors at TMC whom I had reached out to. She had no clue that any of this had happened to us and responded professionally. She did try to do right by our family. Patrice told us that on behalf of the entire board of directors, they unanimously decided to refund our tuition in entirety. Initially I asked only for a credit containing the unused portion of class, and in addition the 2 classes in which my child (and others) were completely ignored. Not a good experience, we will not be returning.

My 5 year old took a tumbling class from Ms. Shinogu, and just wrapped up the spring season. Ms Shinogu sets her expectations for the class, and ensures the kids are disciplined. There was one instance where she sat down older kids from another class to remind them that they should be respectful of the younger tumblers who were all learning new skills and a new routine. I didn't realize it was an issue at the time, but appreciated her addressing the problem at its onset. My advice to all parents is to stick it out even when you think your child has no interest. For the first several weeks my son sat in the corner of the room and didn't participate. Ms Shinogu was patient and took extra care to ensure my son did the warm ups each week. Over time, he understood the various exercises and stretches, gaining confidence and building flexibility and strength. By the time the spring performance came around, he was enthusiastic and asked to be re-enrolled in the fall. I would love to give it 5 stars because the class itself is great, but have to deduct one star because the parking is atrocious! There is a lot across of center street with free parking, however the stalls are also shared with pipeline bakery, and a jiu jitsu dojo. When you do find an open stall, more often than not, the car next to it is over the line due to the narrow lines. I found I had to show up 15 minutes early each time to make sure I could walk across Waialae Ave in time.

An excellent place to help children learn different style of dances. My nephew has a LOT of energy and the instructors here are positive and encouraging. They've worked with him to focus his movements. This is one of the first group activities where he feels accepted and enjoying going.The people are super friendly. Thank you Movement Center!!!

The Movement CenterThe teachers there really care and are compassionate towards anyone and everyone. I watched some of the teaching staff help a few young men with down syndrome make actual dance routines that used their very own skills that they were able to do to music. One knows watching them that they worked their hardest to find a routine that helped the young men learn dance and be able to perform not just for family or in house- but also go to Ala Moana Stage and perform for a real 'live' audience. Hours of practice did prepare them to be more inclusive in the community in a meaningful real way.

The place is a ballet studio during the day and is used as a studio for a small enthusiastic dance group for cultural dances from around the world. Most dances are European origin with focus on Eastern European dances. Fees are $5 per lesson from 7:30pm-9:30 pm on one Saturday per month. Sign up for regular meeting notification. Very friendly and welcoming group to learn different ethnic dances. Next to Yakitori Ando on Center Street in Kaimuki.

I have two daughters that have been taking dance, mainly ballet, lessons at the Movement Center for the past 9 years. This dance school is a cozy school where students of all ages and abilities are welcome. It was the third school that we tried and the only one we stayed with. I believe that it was the inclusive atmosphere that drew in our family. At her prior school, the students were unfriendly as well as the parents waiting outside. Not so at the Movement Center. TMC has a huge variety of classes such as Mighty Movers for the youngest dancers (preschool age.) all the way up to ballet, jazz and tap for high schoolers. My daughters have taken their Song and Dance class, Musical Theater, and Hip Hop as well.The location is very convenient in Kaimuki and parking has not been a problem. If you are looking for a dance school, check them out. I do believe you can try a class for free. (call to be sure!)

The Movement Center has been like a second home for my girls on the weekend. They have taken multiple dance classes for many years. The studio is located behind Okada Bento/Asuka/Aloha Crepes on Waialae Avenue in Kaimuki... but the entrance is on Center Drive. Miss Colleen runs the business office. Chances are if you've called the center, you've spoken to her. She is funny, kind, but most of all, she really cares about the students. She has all the answers to any questions a new, or returning, parent may have. All the teachers are great. My kids love Miss Kiana (Miss Colleen's daughter), Miss Julie (who is also the creative director), Miss Carolyn (ballet instructor extrordinaire), Miss Rika (most amazing Jazz choreographer), Miss Mo and Miss Taylor (they are the sweetest student assistants, who also take dance classes there).If you have the chance, check them out online. They offer so many different types of classes and varying times.

The Movement Center is the only school that offers classes to students with disabilities. The instructors are kind, supportive and caring and they know how to work with kids. Most importantly, they LIKE working with kids. They are very patient and strive to bring out the best in each child. All of them are very good with children. Another school that a friend recommended was geared toward professional child actors and pageant girls; that school only wanted children who were mature with good attention spans. Sadly the teachers at that school didn't have much patience with kids. This school embraces EVERYBODY and is a much better fit for my child.Not only that, the school provides costumes in most cases, so parents don't have to pay for expensive costumes. Other dance schools expect parents to pay for expensive (and sometimes hideous) costumes that their child will never use again.Parking is not too much of a problem, except during certain times on Saturday when the large classes are taught. Still, with a little patience, a stall usually opens up. The parents are friendly and the atmosphere is very familial. The receptionists are personable, extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Although I'm sure it is present in a few cases, you don't sense a cutthroat competitiveness at this school among students and parents. It's a very loving, nurturing atmosphere.And EVERYBODY gets to perform! This school makes sure that any student who wants to be in performances has the chance to do so. I understand other schools select only the top students to perform in their showcases, but at The Movement Center, everybody gets a chance to shine in the school's performances. There are speaking roles/characters in their theatrical productions that students can audition for. Their productions also include dance performances by the various classes, so even if your child isn't into acting, he or she can be a part of the show with his/her class. What's also great is that this school has classes just for boys only called Little Warriors and Warriors. Some parents are reluctant to put their sons into dance class, fearing they will be the only boy in a class of all girls. Since TMC has classes just for boys, you don't have to worry about your son being surrounded by young ladies in pink tulle. ALSO Added: TMC has a Glee Club for those children who love to sing. They have classes in Musical Theater. They offer private vocal coaching. Other classes offered are hip hop, tap, ballet, jazz, tumbling and rhythmic gymnastics. This school is a true performing arts center, so there's plenty to choose from. There's even classes for adults.Most importantly, this school offers a movement class for older boys with disabilities.If you have a child who has a disability but loves to dance, check out this wonderful school. My child has been going for almost two years and really enjoys it. If you want a school that is friendly, supportive and nurturing, come to The Movement Center. You will get a topnotch dance education by knowledgeable and kid-friendly dance instructors!

My daughter has been taking dance lessons here for about three years. I found them online and liked the description they had of their goals for students and their motto of "Creating Good People through Excellent Education in the Performing Arts." All the teachers are wonderful, patient, kind, and caring. My daughter has taken song and dance, musical theater, jazz, and the combination classes of jazz, ballet, tap, and tumbling when she was younger. There are opportunities for performances throughout the year. Our experience with everyone has been great and other parents are also nice and friendly. Highly recommend if you're looking for a place for your girl or boy. Great instructors, friendly and supportive atmosphere.