What to Expect

New dance studio member will receive access to an online studio handbook upon registration.

Stepping into a dance studio for the first time can be intimidating, but we welcome you to join our dance family and offer a welcoming, judgment-free environment for beginners and experienced dancers. Whether you are an adult or a parent of a young dancer, here is what you can typically expect in 2026.

1. Studio Environment & Etiquette

Arrival & Check-In: Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early to find the studio, check in at the front desk, and familiarize yourself.
Physical Space: Expect a professional setup featuring sprung wood floors (designed to absorb shock and protect joints), floor-to-ceiling mirrors for posture checks, and portable barres for stability.
Common Rules: We ask that you silence mobile devices while in the studio space and do not allow food or drinks other than water in the studio space. We do have a waiting/reception area where this is allowed.

2. Typical Class Structure

Most classes last 45 to 55 minutes and follow a predictable flow:

Warm-Up (10–15 mins): Gentle stretching and light cardio to prepare muscles and prevent injury.
Technique Drills: Learning fundamental steps (e.g., pliés in ballet or shuffles in tap) and terminology.
Across-the-Floor Work: Practicing traveling steps and movement.
Choreography: Learning a short combination of moves set to music.
Cool Down (5–10 mins): Final stretches and breathing to help the body recover and/or review previous dance choreographies/presentations.

3. Attire & Gear

Ballet Folklorico/Spanish Dance/Ballet/Jazz: Leotards and dance tights/leggings so instructors can see your body alignment.

Hip Hop: Usually permits loose-fitting, comfortable athletic wear and sneakers.
Footwear: Specific shoes are often required (e.g., Ballet folklorico heeled dance shoes w/nails, ballet slippers, shoes with small heels).
Essentials to Pack: A refillable water bottle, a small towel for sweat, and hair ties to keep hair secured away from your face.

4. What to Expect Mentally & Physically

For Kids: It is normal for young children to take several weeks to fully participate or feel comfortable in the new environmen
New Language: Expect to hear many new terms, often in Spanish for ballet folklorico or spanish dance, French for ballet or technical slang for hip hop.
No Comparison: Focus on your own progress; instructors do not expect perfection on day one and will offer constructive feedback to help you grow.
Soreness: You will likely feel sore in muscles you don’t typically use—particularly in your feet, calves, and core—for 24–48 hours after your first session.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT IMAGE DANCE AT A GLANCE

JANUARY – Begin dance choreography for Spring Recital | continue performance schedule

FEBRUARY – Continue choreography | continue performance schedule

MARCH – Extra rehearsal schedule for preparations for Spring Recital

APRIL – Fiesta San Antonio – Performances & Parades | Studio closes for one week for Fiesta performances and participation

MAY – Resume regular season | Performances | Private lessons schedule released

JUNE – Continue regular season and begin supplemental summer schedule
Private Lessons | Performance opportunities | Begin preparations for Fall Recital

JULY – July 4th Holiday break (one weekend) | Continue preparations for Fall Recital
Private Lessons | Performance opportunities

AUGUST – Ending summer season but preparing for Fall Recital

SEPTEMBER – Fall Recital – extra rehearsals

OCTOBER – Performance opportunities – Dia de Los Muertos season

NOVEMBER – Christmas season choreography & Performance Opportunities

DECEMBER – Regular classes | Christmas performances | Christmas vacation