West University Dance Center

"My 12 year old daughter signed up in the fall for jazz and ballet dance classes. It was our first time with West U Dance and in spite of having danced for 7 years she was placed in a beginner class with 7-8 year olds. Understandably, she was disappointed to not be with girls closer to her age. After asking several times about being placed with older girls West U dance moved her to another class which was in effect half a level up, but with girls in the same younger age range. I asked again, but with no luck so we switched to Memorial Dance who immediately put her with girls her age and she is much happier. Tuition was required upfront, but they have refused to offer any refund from the $450 we paid for the fall even though she only went to classes for 3 weeks. Very disappointed that they weren't accommodating and we won't return as a result."

"Very disappointed in the disrespect and lack of professionalism at this studio. I was looking forward to continuing my dance education here. Unfortunately, Ginger at the front desk took it upon herself to attack me because according to her, being in your mid-twenties is "too old" and puts me "at risk" to dance with the graded dancers. That is so ridiculous. I know so many women that dance en pointe well into their 70s (that are in much better shape than she is in, too). She insisted that she was not projecting "ageism"/ prejudice against my age and that I should try the regular adult classes. I'm sorry, I've taken many adult classes at studios and they are not as progressive as graded levels. That's okay, Ginger. I found a much better, more inclusive studio at Houston City Dance where I instantly felt welcomed regardless of my age. Additionally, the staff at Houston City dance is much more professional and friendly. If you are a parent, take your children to Houston City Dance where you can also take high quality dance classes for yourself (even in the graded levels, if you prefer). Do NOT go here though. Very rude and uncaring staff at the front that is prejudice. Glad I didn't waste my hard earned money here."

"If I could give zero stars, I would!, for the way this studio is handling COVID-19 situation. They do provide recorded lessons on youtube, and that's their reason for no-refund / credit / makeup classes for all the missed classes. Time is hard for everyone, and I can totally understand that we all need a bit of help whether family or business, but this place gives no room for options. I emailed WUDC for options, and I was told that "Children need some time to move around" There was no room for discussion. I did not pursue further, and I decided to take the loss on my end instead of starting an argument. However, I'd like to point out that a video lesson is not an experience we paid for. At best it shows a dance example, but It definitely does not provide a dance lesson. Today (Apr. 27), I received another email from WUDC stating that they WILL host the recital in early June, in their studio room. Even though all school district has shut down for the school year, the dance studio will be closed at least till May 27, there is no physical class before the early June recital... AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, COVID-19 is still viral and dangerous, and we are still advised to avoid public gathering... Their reasoning, I quote, "Young children grow, recital costumes can be out grown if we wait too long"... Dear WUDC, do you prioritize your costume over the health of our children? You can keep my money. I will not bring my kids to the recital. I will not return to your studio in the future, considering how you make decisions with the safety of our children. I will not recommend this place to anyone who loves and cares about their family."

"Great studio for little kids. Parking is a complete nightmare at all hours. Good staff, large established program."