Do I need a partner to take dance classes at Motion Arts Center?

No! We rotate partners throughout partner-style classes, so you'll dance with everyone. Many students come solo. We also offer solo-format classes like Hip-Hop, K-Pop, Zumba, Jazz Funk, BollyX, Strong Nation, Line Dancing, and Contemporary Fusion where no partner is needed at all.

How much do dance classes cost at Motion Arts Center in San Mateo?

A single drop-in class is $35 (expires 15 days). Class packages: 2 sessions for $60 (same day), 5 classes for $150 ($30/class, 45 days), 10 classes for $270 ($27/class, 90 days). One Month Pass is $260 (1 class/day, 30 days, no contract). Memberships: VIP at $225/month (1 class/day) or Ultimate at $395/month (unlimited), both with 3-month minimum contract. New students can try a 7-Day Intro Pass for just $69 — save up to $176.

What should I wear to my first dance class?

Wear whatever feels comfortable. No special clothes required. Smooth-soled shoes work best on our hardwood floor — leather or suede soles are ideal. Avoid rubber-soled sneakers for partner dance classes. Sneakers are fine for Hip-Hop and fitness classes. We sell dance shoes in our in-studio store.

Do I need any dance experience to start at Motion Arts Center?

Not at all! We have absolute beginner and basics-level classes in every style. Our instructors break down every move step by step. Most of our students started with zero dance experience.

Where is Motion Arts Center located and is there parking?

Two studios in downtown San Mateo, CA: BigMAC at 217 S Claremont St and MiniMAC at 525 E 3rd Ave (94401). FREE parking garage right across the BigMAC studio (Verkada building), open Mon-Fri 6pm-12am, Sat-Sun 9am-12am. All city-owned parking is free after 6pm and all day Sundays. Kiku City Garage (526 spaces) is 2 blocks away. 3-minute walk from Caltrain, near highways 101, 280, and 92.

How do I book a dance class at Motion Arts Center?

Online pre-registration is required for all in-person classes. Create a free account on our website or app, browse the weekly schedule, and reserve your spot. You'll receive an email confirmation. Arrive 15 minutes before class.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancel class reservations at least 24 hours before start time. Late cancellations or no-shows count as a used class. Private lessons require 48 hours notice. Purchases are not refundable or transferable. All sales are final.

Does Motion Arts Center offer private lessons and wedding first dance?

Yes! Private lessons for individuals ($150/session), couples ($230/session), and wedding first dance ($230/session). Each lesson is 45 minutes, in person or live video, includes floor fee. Packages: 3-pack from $435, 5-pack from $700, 10-pack from $1,250 (individual) or $1,850 (couples). Choose your style, instructor, date, and time online.

What dance styles does Motion Arts Center teach?

17+ styles: Salsa (On1), Bachata, Argentine Tango (including Vals and Milonga), Cumbia, Merengue, West Coast Swing, Hip-Hop, K-Pop, Jazz Funk, Heels, Bollywood, BollyX (fitness), Contemporary Fusion, Line Dancing, Zumba, Strong Nation (HIIT), and Couples Only classes. Also Salsa/Bachata Solo Basics and Latin Guided Practice Sessions.

Does Motion Arts Center offer corporate wellness programs?

Yes! Dance-based corporate wellness and team building. Packages: 50 classes for $1,250, 100 classes for $2,500, 250+ at custom pricing. Also public class credits ($100 for 5, $200 for 10, $400 for 20) and private group sessions. At our studio or on-site at your location.

Can I rent studio space at Motion Arts Center?

Yes! Our studios are available for rental — practice, classes, events, or productions. Premium sound systems, hardwood floors, air conditioning. Contact info@motionartscenter.com or (415) 851-6501 for availability and rates.

Does Motion Arts Center offer yoga classes in San Mateo?

Yes! We offer two yoga classes weekly with instructor Emery. Yoga for Dancers — designed specifically for dancers' bodies, focusing on flexibility, alignment, breath, and recovery — is on Wednesdays 7:00-8:00 PM. Vinyasa Yoga — flowing breath-led practice for all levels — is offered Wednesdays 8:00-9:00 PM and Saturdays at 9:30-10:30 AM and 11:30 AM-12:30 PM. All levels welcome. Drop-in $35 or use any class package or membership.

Beginner Weekly Series

For West Coast Swing and Bachata

Our progressive beginner series here give you a structured way to get started, with time to practice, connect, and enjoy the learning process.

Perfect for brand-new dancers or anyone looking to refresh their fundamentals. No partner or experience necessary! These series require separate registration/payment from our regular group drop-in classes.

Differently from our regular drop-in group classes, each series follows a planned progression, with every lesson building on the week before. Sign up for the full course and attend each week to get the most out of your experience!

Choose your series below and join us on the dance floor! Limited Spaces Available, Sign Up in Advance.

5-Week West Coast Swing Beginner Series
6PM Monday 11/02, 11/09, 11/16, 11/23 and 11/30

Teacher: Heather | Price: $145 per person

Discover the fun and flow of West Coast Swing! Learn basic rhythms, essential patterns like the sugar push and underarm turn, and comfortable partner connection in a welcoming environment. Each week builds on the previous lesson, helping you develop your skills and confidence step by step.

*Pre-registration required. No partner or experience necessary.

4-Week Bachata Beginner Series
7PM Thursday 11/05, 11/12, 11/19 and 12/03

Teachers David & Jewell | Price $120 per person

Find your rhythm and feel more comfortable dancing Bachata! Learn the signature three steps and a tap, basic turns, body movement, and partner connection in a relaxed, supportive setting. Each week builds on what you’ve learned, helping you put the fundamentals together for the social dance floor.

*Pre-registration required. No partner or experience necessary. (Thursday November 26th the studio will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday.)

Beginner Weekly Series

For West Coast Swing and Bachata

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