Berest Dance Center

- 12 S Washington St, Port Washington, NY 11050

In the vibrant landscape of New York's arts and culture scene, a place that stands for more than just performance is a true treasure. Berest Dance Center in Port Washington, New York, has been that cherished institution for over four decades. Founded on the principle of providing outstanding dance training in a non-competitive, nurturing environment, this women-owned business has become a beloved fixture on Long Island. It’s a place where dance is not just an activity but a way of life, where students of all ages are encouraged to grow, express themselves, and find a sense of belonging. This article will take you on a journey through the heart of Berest Dance Center, highlighting its rich history, its comprehensive offerings, and the unique community it has fostered, all from the perspective of a local New Yorker.

Berest Dance Center’s philosophy, as expressed by its owner, is that dance is a visual expression of the heart. This sentiment is woven into every aspect of the studio, from its classes to its dedicated instructors. For parents, it's a place where children are not only taught the steps of ballet or jazz but are also given the attention and love needed to thrive, especially those with unique needs. As one parent of a child with a speech delay shared, the instructors, particularly Ms. Jess, "exceeded our expectations" with their love and affection, helping their daughter "when she struggles." These are the stories that define the Berest experience, creating a family-like atmosphere that encourages students to have fun while learning and building friendships. It's this commitment to emotional well-being that truly sets the studio apart.

For the past forty years and counting, the studio has been a second home for its students, a "safe haven" where they can be themselves and grow their identity. It’s a place that has produced accomplished dancers who have gone on to perform on Broadway and in professional companies, yet it prides itself most on being a community resource. This balance between professional training and a nurturing environment is a rare find in the dance world. We will explore the wide array of classes offered, the convenient location and accessibility, and the key features that make Berest Dance Center the perfect choice for anyone in the New York area looking to begin or continue their dance journey.

Berest Dance Center is conveniently located in the heart of Port Washington at 12 S Washington St, NY 11050, USA. Its location is easily accessible for residents of Long Island and beyond, making it a practical choice for families with busy schedules. As a local business, it’s integrated into the fabric of the community, providing a welcoming and familiar landmark.

The center’s physical space, housed in a beautiful Dutch Colonial building, is designed to be a conducive environment for dance. The studio is a welcoming space that invites everyone to come inside and be part of the community. In a broader sense, the studio is also a "transgender safe space," which speaks to its inclusive and modern values. This commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all members of the community is a key part of its appeal. The studio also offers on-site services and has embraced online classes, providing flexibility for students who may have scheduling conflicts or prefer to learn from home. Payments are made easy with the acceptance of major credit and debit cards, streamlining the registration and tuition process.

Berest Dance Center boasts an impressive and comprehensive list of services, designed to accommodate a wide range of interests, ages, and skill levels. Whether you are a parent enrolling a toddler in their first class or an adult fulfilling a lifelong dream, there is a program for you. The pricing is transparent, with options for single classes or entire programs. Here is a look at their offerings:

• Youth Classes (US$20.00): A wide variety of classes for children and teens, including ballet, tap, jazz, and more.
• Adult Lessons (US$27.00): Classes designed for adults of all skill levels, allowing them to learn or return to dance.
• Beginner's Classes (From US$20.00): Foundational classes for those new to dance, building confidence and basic skills.
• Intermediate Classes (US$27.00): For students who have mastered the basics and are ready for more complex choreography.
• Advanced Classes (US$30.00): High-level classes for experienced dancers seeking to refine their technique.
• Private Lessons (US$130.00): One-on-one instruction for personalized attention and accelerated learning.
• Specialty Classes: African Dance, Hip-Hop, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Modern, and Musical Theatre are just a few of the many specialized classes available.
• Children's Programs: A full curriculum for young dancers, from pre-school and toddler classes to children's ballets and combination classes.
• Summer Programs: A robust offering of Summer Camps, Summer Dance Intensives, and Summer Workshops to keep dancers engaged during the break.
• Performance Opportunities: The studio provides opportunities for students to perform in theater concerts and holiday shows, fostering confidence and stage presence.
• Online Classes: Offering the convenience of learning from home for those who cannot attend in person.

This extensive list demonstrates the studio's commitment to providing a holistic and diverse dance education for its community. It's a place where a child can start in an "Intro to Dance" class and progress all the way through "Advanced" and "Company Classes," receiving a well-rounded and professional education.

Berest Dance Center has several key features that make it a truly exceptional place for dance education in New York. These highlights are what make the studio a cherished part of its community.

• Women-Owned and Operated: The studio identifies as women-owned, contributing to a supportive and empowering environment. This can be an important factor for many families seeking to support local, female-led businesses.
• Non-Competitive Atmosphere: The studio prides itself on being a non-competitive, nurturing environment. This focus on individual growth and positive reinforcement helps students thrive without the pressure often associated with competitive dance.
• Exceptional Staff: Instructors are described as "amazing" and are known for their loving and affectionate approach, making every student feel valued. The attention given to students, even those with special needs, is a testament to the staff's dedication.
• Good for Kids: The studio is explicitly recognized as being "good for kids," with programs that are tailored to young children's development and interests. The happy experiences of children in their weekly classes and holiday shows are a clear highlight.
• Inclusive Environment: The studio's designation as a "transgender safe space" and its overall welcoming approach make it a place where everyone can feel comfortable and respected.
• Longstanding Legacy: With a history dating back over four decades, Berest Dance Center has a strong foundation and a proven track record of excellence, building a legacy that has touched generations of dancers.
• Comprehensive Training: The studio offers a full curriculum for dancers of all ages, from toddlers to adults, with classes in a wide range of genres, from ballet to musical theatre and hip-hop.

These features, from its long history to its inclusive values and exceptional staff, make Berest Dance Center a standout choice for dance education in New York. The studio’s commitment to building a safe and supportive community is a significant factor in its long-term success and positive reputation.

To learn more about classes, schedules, and tuition, you can reach out to Berest Dance Center using the following contact information. The studio's physical address is 12 S Washington St, Port Washington, NY 11050, USA. You can contact them by phone at (516) 944-6687 or on their mobile number +1 516-944-6687. The staff is available to answer any questions you may have about their programs and help you find the perfect class for you or your child. The studio’s friendly and helpful approach ensures a smooth and pleasant experience from your very first inquiry.

Why should you choose Berest Dance Center over the many other options in the New York area? The reasons are rooted in its core values and its proven track record. The glowing reviews from long-term families and new students alike are a testament to the studio's success. As one family shared, they "hope to be part of this wonderful family for many years to come," while another expressed their desire for "many more years of dancing with Berest!" These sentiments show that the studio creates not just students but a lasting community.

The personal and attentive nature of the instruction, especially for children with specific needs, is a powerful reason to choose this studio. The fact that an instructor's love and affection can make a significant difference in a child's learning and enjoyment is a rare and precious quality. This level of care, combined with a robust and diverse curriculum, makes Berest Dance Center an ideal place for both children and adults to find their rhythm. It's a studio that focuses on the art of dance while also nurturing the whole person, building character, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for movement. For anyone in New York seeking a dance education that is both high-quality and deeply supportive, Berest Dance Center is an exceptional choice.

Berest Dance Center

12 S Washington St, Port Washington, NY 11050, USA