Spoke the Hub Dancing, Inc.

- 748 Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11215

For more than four decades, Spoke the Hub Dancing, Inc. has been a cornerstone of the Brooklyn performing arts scene, serving as a dynamic and inclusive space for artists and community members of all ages and levels. Founded by the visionary Elise Long, whom many have dubbed a "cultural icon of Brooklyn," this performing arts theater is more than just a venue; it's a vital community hub where creativity, movement, and wellness converge. Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Park Slope, Spoke the Hub is a place where professional artists can hone their craft, children can take their first dance steps, and adults can discover a new passion or simply find a place to move and connect. The organization has been a prime mover and shaker in the Brooklyn arts scene since its founding in 1979, known for its groundbreaking work and its commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for all. It is a place where you can find a wide variety of classes, from creative ballet for toddlers to fitness classes for seniors, reflecting a philosophy that dance and artistic expression are for everyone, regardless of age or experience. The focus on community and collaboration is at the heart of Spoke the Hub's mission, creating an atmosphere that is supportive, low-key, and deeply artistic, as attested to by many long-time patrons.

Beyond its role as a school and performance space, Spoke the Hub has also been a crucial incubator for artistic talent, producing the work of countless emerging and established artists across various genres. The organization's history is deeply intertwined with the development of Brooklyn's arts landscape, having launched other influential community art centers over the years. This rich history and enduring commitment to the arts are what make Spoke the Hub a truly special place for anyone in New York. The welcoming ambiance, which many find to be a key part of the experience, makes it an ideal place for individuals to feel at home and explore their creativity without judgment. While the organization is widely celebrated for its positive impact, it is also important to acknowledge that every institution, even one with a strong community focus, can have challenging moments. Some customer feedback has pointed to areas of concern, particularly regarding communication and how certain situations are handled. For example, one review from a customer whose sister attended a summer session highlighted a difficult experience involving questions about ethnicity and a feeling of being an "outsider," which ultimately led to the student's removal from the program. This type of feedback, while painful, serves as a reminder that the goal of creating an inclusive and respectful environment is an ongoing process that requires continuous effort and self-reflection from any organization. However, the overall sentiment from a multitude of reviews and testimonials is a positive one, praising the high quality of the classes, the skill of the teachers, and the sense of community that the organization fosters, making it an invaluable resource for the Park Slope and broader Brooklyn community.

Spoke the Hub is conveniently located at 748 Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11215, in the heart of the Park Slope neighborhood. This location is easily accessible for a wide range of New Yorkers. The studio is nestled in a vibrant and friendly part of Brooklyn, with tree-lined streets and a strong community feel. For those traveling by subway, the studio is just a short walk from the Union Street R train station, and is also within walking distance of the Grand Army Plaza 2/3 train stop, making it a convenient destination for people coming from different parts of the city. The area is also well-served by several bus routes. The location's ease of access is a major benefit, especially for families with children who are enrolled in classes. While parking can be challenging in any part of New York City, there is often street parking available in the surrounding residential blocks. The neighborhood's charm and proximity to other local businesses, parks, and restaurants make a visit to Spoke the Hub an enjoyable outing in and of itself. Whether you’re heading to a class or a performance, the journey to this cultural gem is a pleasant one, allowing you to soak in the unique atmosphere of a quintessential Brooklyn neighborhood before you even step inside.

Spoke the Hub provides a broad range of services that cater to its mission of fostering a diverse artistic community. The core of its offerings is its extensive schedule of dance and wellness classes. These classes are designed to accommodate individuals of all ages and skill levels, from young children to adults and seniors. The studio is particularly known for being "good for kids," with many positive reviews from parents about their children's experiences in classes like "Sing, Dance and Make Believe." Beyond the classroom, the performing arts theater also serves as an invaluable resource for artists in the city by offering low-cost rehearsal and performance spaces. This crucial service helps to support the creation of new work and makes the arts more accessible to a broader range of talent. Additionally, the organization produces a number of popular community arts events and festivals, such as the Local Produce (LP) Festival of the Performing Arts and the LP Winter Follies, which showcase the diverse talent within the community. These events serve to strengthen the bonds between artists and audiences, creating a lively and engaging cultural scene. The organization's commitment to the community is also reflected in its classes for senior citizens and its outreach programs. The variety and quality of these services demonstrate Spoke the Hub's dedication to its role as a central hub for artistic and community life in Brooklyn.

Services Offered:

• Dance and Wellness Classes: A wide array of classes for all ages, including creative movement for children, ballet, modern, and yoga for adults and seniors.
• Performance Opportunities: Production of shows and festivals that provide a platform for artists of all genres and ages to showcase their work.
• Space Rental: Affordable rehearsal and performance space for artists and the public.
• Educational Programs: Various workshops and special programs aimed at fostering creativity and artistic development.
• Community Events: Hosting of festivals and showcases that bring artists and the community together.

Spoke the Hub Dancing, Inc. has several key features and highlights that make it a notable performing arts theater in New York City. The studio's commitment to community is perhaps its most significant highlight. The organization has been a staple in the neighborhood for over forty years, and its founder, Elise Long, is widely considered a cultural pioneer. The studio provides a nurturing and flexible environment, as noted by patrons who appreciate the ability to make up missed classes. The classes and performance opportunities are designed for artists of "all ages and levels," which is a rare and valuable feature in a city that can often feel highly competitive. The theater is also known for being "good for kids," with many positive testimonials from parents about the quality of the children's programs and the kindness of the teachers. The venue accepts credit cards, which provides convenience for customers. Beyond its classes and performances, the studio's physical space itself is a highlight. The building is designed to be a "home-away-from-home," a place where people can feel comfortable to create and connect. The use of the space for a variety of purposes—from classes to rehearsals to social gatherings—showcases its versatility and its role as a true hub for artistic activity. The organization's long-standing presence and reputation in the community are a testament to its quality and enduring appeal.

Features / Highlights:

• Cultural Institution: A long-standing and respected performing arts center with over 40 years of history in Brooklyn.
• Community-Oriented: Known for fostering a supportive and welcoming environment for artists and community members.
• All-Ages Programs: Offers a diverse range of classes and opportunities for children, teens, and adults of all skill levels.
• Convenient Payment: Accepts credit cards for easy transactions.
• Performance and Rehearsal Space: Provides crucial, affordable space for artists to develop and present their work.
• Good for Kids: A highly-regarded destination for children's dance and creative movement classes.

Contact Information:

• Address: 748 Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11215, USA
• Phone: (718) 408-3234

What is worth choosing Spoke the Hub? For those seeking a performing arts theater or dance studio in New York City, Spoke the Hub offers a unique and compelling blend of professional artistry and community warmth. It is a place that prioritizes a "low-key, artsy, flexible" tone, making it ideal for individuals who are seeking to explore their creativity without the pressure of a more formal institution. The longevity of the organization, founded by a well-respected figure in the Brooklyn arts world, speaks volumes about its quality and its role as a vital part of the cultural fabric of the borough. While a rare negative review may surface, as with any long-standing business, the overwhelming sentiment from patrons and artists is that Spoke the Hub is a truly special place. The diverse range of classes and performance opportunities means there is something for everyone, whether you are a parent looking for a class for your child, a seasoned dancer in need of rehearsal space, or a curious adult wanting to try a new form of movement. By choosing Spoke the Hub, you are not just purchasing a class or a ticket; you are supporting a local cultural icon that has been building community through dance for decades. It is a place that embodies the spirit of Brooklyn—creative, inclusive, and always in motion—making it a truly worthwhile destination for anyone in New York looking to engage with the performing arts.

Spoke the Hub Dancing, Inc.

748 Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11215, USA