★ 1

Very disappointing for an introductory hip hop class. I took this class as a fun activity to do with my wife. I went in with an open mind and excited to learn as I have no dance experience. Unfortunately, the owner Olivia made the entire experience unpleasant and dreadful. She chastised the class for not practicing outside of class, and was visibly irritated with the class when student did not know the answers to her questions. This was an introductory course and she moved at a extremely fast pace, leaving other student behind and showed little patience for helping students grow and become comfortable. Her eye rolling during the course when students couldn't keep up was both unprofessional and disheartening to students that are just doing this for fun. Even when she is signing students in, she seems like she does not want to be there.
The one bright side of this course was the other teacher, SAECHEEZE, was incredible. He took his time and helped the whole class build confidence. He took time to get to know some of the students, something Olivia did not do. He made the class both enjoyable and welcoming to new students, like me.
It a little surprising the lights are still on in this establishment with an owner like this, truthfully. One thing Olivia does well is hire good teachers. Olivia needs to learn to get out of her own way, and let go of her ego. The experience and environment Olivia created will turn away a lot of new dancers, which is both damaging to the dance community, as well as her own business.

Source: Google

★ 4

Puppy yoga was awesome

Source: Google

★ 5

The studio has a great vibe, with a welcoming and supportive atmosphere that makes it easy to feel at ease, no matter your experience.

The design of the studio is also a standout feature. It's modern and sleek, with plenty of natural light and a clean, open space that enhances the overall experience.

Overall, Release Dance Studio provides a great environment for learning and improving your dance skills, with a great design that adds to the overall appeal.

Source: Google

★ 5

I dropped into the space this week for a work trip. I am a 40 yr old who’s getting back into dance and I am so happy I decided to drop in. (I say this to give you confidence if that’s what you need 😂)

I took intro to jazz funk with Derrick and he makes you feel safe and seen. I was happy to see him in class my last day as well. Can he just be the mascot?! Love him.

Beg/int jazz with Lauren and she nailed it. It was fun and truly a beg/int class (which I was nervous out) but glad I went!

Thursday I finished a beg/int hip hop class with Ronuelle. The class was so diverse in age and it felt so good to try to knock the rust off.

So if you’re wanting to drop in on a trip let this be your sign so just do it. The ethos of this company runs true through those who teach.

Source: Google

★ 4

I’m absolutely in love with Claire’s contemporary dance and Nicola’s ballet class. They’ve become such a special part of my life. Even though I’ve only just started, I go with so much excitement, feeling completely comfortable and genuinely happy. The classes are pure magic the instructors, the atmosphere, and the movement itself make me fall for dance even more each time.

On the other hand, the heels intro class with Olivia felt a bit disappointing. It started much later than scheduled, and with 20-25 people and only one instructor, it was quite overcrowded. I personally think it’s difficult to learn effectively in such a large group, especially for an intro class where more individual attention is helpful. After about 15 minutes, I decided to leave as I didn’t feel comfortable.

That said, I’m still excited to explore heels dance further and will give it another try with a different instructor.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this place! Olivia and the rest of the teachers here make a very fun and welcoming environment for beginning dancers. I very quickly went from feeling a little nervous and awkward to having a great time. Highly recommended.

Source: Google

★ 1

I was excited to try something new and gain confidence when I signed up for the Intro Heels course (after taking the recommended courses prior and also having previous dance experience), but unfortunately, my time at this studio left me feeling more discouraged than empowered. While the studio space itself is nice, and the fellow students bring great energy, the environment is overshadowed by the behavior and attitude of the owner, Olivia.

Olivia is undoubtedly a talented dancer, but her teaching style and approach to running the studio leave much to be desired. The classes never start on time and Olivia makes no effort in getting to know the clients that keep her lights on. As an instructor, Olivia often moves through routines very quickly, leaving half the class behind without any effort to provide guidance or reassurance. If you fall behind, she not only continues without adjusting, but may even chastise and criticize you for struggling. This is especially disheartening in a class setting where students are PAYING to feel safe to learn and improve.

The dynamic in the studio feels more like a performance audition than a supportive learning environment. Olivia’s favoritism is evident, and she seems to focus more on showing off her own skills and propping up her friends and favorite clients than creating an inclusive experience for all students.

I came to this studio hoping to find encouragement and community, but instead, I often left feeling judged, stressed, and anxious. The final straw for me is when Olivia wanted to make a video for Instagram and her teaching buddy, Emma, decided to rank the students abilities one by one in front of everyone, which was not only humiliating but completely unnecessary.

This is just one of many occasions where Olivia and other instructors displayed attitudes that made me—and others—feel unwelcome, as though we weren’t good enough to be there. I did not return after that. I signed up to learn heels, gain confidence, and practice my skills. I didn't PAY to get judged by a bunch of mean girls whose mindsets are stuck in middle school.

The lack of proper instruction, combined with the fast-paced routines and an overall dismissive attitude toward students, made the experience unenjoyable. I gave this studio several chances, going consistently every week for an entire year, hoping my experience would improve as I gained confidence and skill, but the negativity and pressure never let up.

I hope they see this and make some changes, but I know that Olivia won't. Every time she gets a bad review on Google, she sits the class down and wastes the time that you paid for and begs and pleads for you not to leave her a bad review.

If you’re looking to learn, grow, and feel empowered in a dance class, I would recommend seeking out another studio. While the space and some of the staff are nice and although I did make some friends there with other students, the toxic atmosphere created by Olivia makes it difficult to enjoy what should be a fun and uplifting experience.

Source: Google

★ 1

egotistical, immature, and unprofessional

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place to gather and dance.

Source: Google

★ 3

Most of the staff and overall space are great, as well as the people that attend! All the students have good energy which is really nice to see. The group setting is nice, and you will definitely learn a lot, even if the mirror is difficult to see at times. Cheeze leading the Hip Hop course in particular was amazing, I always had a great time in his classes.

Beware of a couple things though. All packages have an aggressive expiration policy, and you won't be told that if you buy in person like I did. You are expected to know by opening the sales receipt sent by email. No refunds or discount on a replacement package will be offered, or even an apology for poor communication. Overall the studio is only held back by the owner Olivia. While a very talented dancer, she unfortunately has not honed the skills to teach others those skills well. Most interactions both on the floor and in the lobby will make you feel extraordinarily unimportant unless you are a master dancer yourself. If half the class gets lost and stops, she will not only continue the sequence, but add on without saying anything. You will then get admonished for not keeping up afterwards. If a celebrity wishes to use the studio, be prepared to have your class canceled without warning. Don't worry though, you WILL get to hear her brag about it during the next class instead of being taught some dance.

Based on my experience with her today, they've lost a customer instead of my buying a package for two concurrent classes. A little basic human decency would go a long ways here. It's a shame because it's otherwise a very nice setup. I hope my $40 today was worth it.

Source: Google

★ 5

Beautiful space with a nice, clean aesthetic. Great staff and excellent service

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Hoping to become a part of this studio soon! Came to visit but it was closed :(

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been going to this studio weekly for over a year now and I truly love it. The teachers are passionate about their art and inspire me to be better. Simple to sign up for classes online and in person. These courses and classes are challenging but so fun. I came in with no dance studio experience and started in the absolute beginner course which I would recommend for anyone that’s just beginning their dance journey

Source: Google

★ 2

I would not suggest this studio for beginners. The classes were far too large (something like 50 people in one room) making it hard to see yourself in the mirror or the instructor. The moves are just thrown at you and everyone is kind of just flailing around.

Source: Google

★ 5

Best dance studio in Detroit area!

Source: Google

★ 5

Back in early 2023 I was seeking a place to develop my dance skills as an adult. That can be hard to find since most studios are geared only towards children, but I eventually came across Release, and I am so grateful I did. Since starting in February, I have consistently danced at least once a week (it's lately been more often 3 times a week), getting my exercise, making friends, and improving the skills I haven't worked on since middle school. I am very grateful to this inclusive community that often makes up the best part of my day!

Source: Google

★ 5

I am so grateful to have a place like Release in my life. I always have such an awesome experience when I am there. I love all the different variety of dance styles they offer as well as the different level classes. It is a very welcoming place to dance and I am so thankful that I found it! I have met a ton of really cool people too :)

Source: Google

★ 5

Every class I’ve taken at RELEASE has been incredible. They have the best atmosphere, teachers, and choreography. Highly recommend for dancers at all levels!

Source: Google

★ 5

Attending classes at RELEASE has become the highlight of my weekly routine for almost two years now. It had been about 15 years since I took my last dance class in high school and decided to try this studio out with one of my best friends. Not only has the RELEASE crew helped me find my love for dance again after these last 15 years, but I have also met some wonderful people. Whether you are looking for a place to train or just have fun after work with a best friend, I would absolutely recommend this inclusive community. All of the instructors are extremely talented, but a special thank you to Olivia, Jireh, and Jayce!

Source: Google

★ 5

Just finished an 8 week beginner hip hop course with Ronuelle. This has been the highlight of my week and I am so thankful I found this studio. The staff are friendly and welcoming, the class is a zero judgment environment, and you're encouraged to explore yourself and find your own style. Cannot wait to return for another round of classes!

Source: Google

★ 5

The facility is beautiful, clean, and modern. The staff was friendly and made me feel welcome as a newcomer. There is a nice variety of folks in the class - different ages, levels, body types, etc. This isn't grandma's jazzercise or your mom's zumba! You're going to WORK but I left feeling like I earned every drop of sweat and excited to come back and do it again.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I took the 8 week heels course and as a former dancer with 25+ years of experience, this was such a fun challenge! Olivia and Emma are phenomenal and are experts at their job.

Source: Google

★ 5

I haven’t danced in over 10 years, and I booked the Intro to Heels course on a whim to get myself back into what I love while also building confidence for myself. It’s very fast-paced learning and it’s the weekly challenge + exercise I needed for myself to scratch that dance itch I’ve been having. The choreography, instruction, and the overall atmosphere at Release is awesome!

Source: Google

★ 2

I am currently in the INTRO heels class. Even having previous dance experience, I can tell you this is not a BEGINNER/INTRO class in the slightest.
The stretching is fast, the routines are taught fast, the music is fast, instructors lack actual instruction(they keep pushing you along). It is actually sucking the enjoyment out of my experience there. I wanted to do something fun and sexy but it's been an unenjoyable experience. I hope they see this and make some changes, or change the name of the class, because I wouldn't have signed up for it! I paid for the class and have just felt nothing but stress and anxiety since it started so the likelihood of me coming back to take another class is slim to none.

Source: Google

★ 5

The Intro to Heels course is so much fun! Olivia and Emma are amazing instructors. They create a welcoming environment for new dancers. Highly recommend 🤍

Source: Google

★ 5

Had a great time taking a salsa class with a group for a bachelorette party. The studio is beautiful & clean, and our instructor was amazing!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been coming here for about a month consistently and love it! I have the monthly unlimited pass which allows me to go to any class. It’s worth it! My favorite classes so far have been any hip hop class with Jayce and Modern with Martha. Both are amazing and positive teachers!

Source: Google

★ 5

One thing I love a about this studio is the amount of variety you have when it comes to
classes. The Instructors are always super sweet and talented and always make you feel like you’re never out of place when around a group of experienced/beginner dancers. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing a bunch of OG’s coming out to teach popping, locking, and even breaking! You don’t see to many studios adding such elements of hip hop and being taught right. Love the studio and the vibe, culture, and amazing people it brings ✊🏾

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been coming to this studio for almost three years now, and it is definitely the highlight of my week. The atmosphere here is so inviting and accepting, dancers of all skill levels are sure to feel comfortable. The teachers all genuinely want you to enjoy the class, not just get the combo. But even with this approach, my dancing has vastly improved since I began coming here. I also really like how they consistently have pop up classes and guest teachers, so it is not the same thing every week. I highly recommend checking out a class or two, even if you've never danced before, or it has been a long time since you last did.

Source: Google

★ 1

The owner Olivia is off the wall rude! I’ve never been treated with such disrespect and disregard. Being an owner/instructor I would expect her to be encouraging. She basically said to the whole class that we wasted her time because we couldn’t do the dance moves. The class was supposed to be for beginners! I will never go back there and you shouldn’t either.

Source: Google

★ 1

I went to a BEGINNER Heels class with some of my best friends, and I would never have done it without the recommendation of one of those friends after she took several classes here. Now neither of us will ever be back. Knowing ahead of time that none of us had experience, it was an opportunity to try something fun and new and we were excited to learn. However, Olivia (the studio owner and one of the instructors) was so aggressive and off putting during the whole class. It felt as if we were not welcome there and she treated it as a world class performance (making it obvious who she approved of and didn’t). We were trying our best, but found some of the moves to be challenging. We struggled, but tried anyway. She told us later that the “moves are simple if you just do them,” and repeatedly told us she has “20 years of experience” and that it was “disheartening” to have people in this class who don’t have the foundational skills. As a BEGINNER course, I was led to believe we would be encouraged and empowered, regardless of how skilled we appeared to be. We were there to LEARN. I was also shocked when we would try the routine and the instructors would no longer guide us—it was hard to remember all of the moves as they were quick and they moved on so fast after showing us each step. I wanted to enjoy it, I was very nervous stepping into that room but I had hope that my anxiety would go away once I felt accepted and comfortable, though that never happened. I left feeling shocked, hurt, and foolish, and I am hesitant to ever try a dance class again. I never had the opportunity to dance when I was younger, and I was absolutely blown away when another adult woman made me feel ashamed for trying. I encourage others to go elsewhere unless you have as much experience as the instructor.

Source: Google

★ 5

There is truly so much to say about this amazing place. I danced competitively for 11 years and kinda lost my place after I turned 18 and couldn’t compete. I lost dance for over a year and missed it terribly. Dance is why I’m still here today and it’s home to me. I thought I would never be able to dance again until I found Release. I absolutely love the environment and non judgment there. Everyone is very welcoming and loving. This is my new safe place to grow and learn while having fun while being encouraged and supported. So beyond grateful for Release <3

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Coming to this dance studio every week for their drop in classes has been the best part of my week for the last year. The instructors are amazing and super encouraging no matter your level! The other dancers are so nice and the energy in the studio always makes the class. Couldn’t recommend this studio enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

I danced for 15 years growing up and fell out of it for a couple years after…now I’m back to dancing weekly and it changed my life completely. Release restored my passion and for that I will be forever grateful. Please come check it out and find your new or old passion again!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

First time learning dance, little challenging but super fun, and high energy. Totally worth it. I signed up for monthly unlimited after dropping in on one of the classes.

Source: Google

★ 5

So welcoming and such great staff!

Source: Google

★ 5

Mine.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love release!!!! I love ronnie !!!!!!!! I love olivia !!!!!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely love Erika's latin fusion class! I'm not in any way a trained dancer, very much a beginner just doing it for fun and she makes it a comfortable environment, breaks down the steps, always ready for questions. It is a bit of a challenge for someone like myself but it's a great time learning and putting moves & steps together. Highly recommend! The studio is beautiful as well.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 4

Loved the Latin Fusion class. I'm not a dancer, absolutely no experience. The instructor was great, made it fun.

Source: Google

★ 5

Through this space, I've made so many new friendships/connections, and my knowledge/experience has expanded tremendously. No matter why you dance or want to start dancing, RELEASE provides a space for you to grow, learn, and (most importantly) have fun on your own terms!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have wished for a place like this to exist for long. I am so happy I have found this incredible studio that has such a welcoming, supportive, and fun environment and staff. I can't say enough good things about this studio. I'd recommend this place to ANYONE!! - Retired dance or new dancer - you will fit in and feel great! I look forward to coming here each week!!

Source: Google

★ 5

RELEASE has provided me with such a positive, supportive, and fun experience. I could not be happier to be apart of this studio!! At first, I was hesitant to try a dance class again but with the welcoming and supportive staff, I now dance here 2-3 times a week! I would recommend this studio to ANYONE! Retired dancer, current dancer, or someone who wants to try dance for the first time - I promise you will love it here!

Source: Google

★ 4

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Release has been my second home for the past year and a half thanks to all the incredible staff and dancers. This studio is so welcoming and has such a passionate group of teachers. I’ve made so many new friends and It’s a beautiful space with amazing energy. I’m truly growing as a dancer while still having lots of fun. I’m thankful to have release as a place to create and experiment with dance.

Source: Google

★ 5

I place I've been looking for! It gives community, a fun way of exercise, new skill to learn. Everybody is super welcoming and there are classes of every level and style. If you have danced before or if you have never danced, you need to check this place out.

Source: Google

★ 5

This studio is something I've been looking for for a long time. They're a drop in based studio that has a wide range of classes in all levels - from beginner all the way to advanced. It holds a great community of dancers who are all incredibly talented, humble, and kind. I have made amazing friends at this studio and I've never once felt unwelcome there. Dancing at Release doesn't have any pressures and everyone is there to have fun, learn, and just do what they love 💖

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been taking classes at Release for over a year now and I can’t say enough incredible things about this studio! The staff and other dancers are incredibly welcoming and supportive and have provided me with an amazing community. The space is beautiful and well-maintained and the wide range of classes means you’ll never run out of fun things to try!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

My daughter is 12 y/o and was looking for a "cooler"/ "more grown up" studio that focuses on actually dancing and creative expression rather than simply practicing for a recital. She has found a great community of dancers to look up to and learn with at RELEASE. The studio is gorgeous and clean and very inviting--The owner is very sweet. Thank you for welcoming my daughter !

Source: Google

★ 5

A very nice and versatile dance studio. They have a lot of different classes for all experience levels. They are also very community oriented. It's a good space to film in.

Source: Google

★ 5

Being a self taught dancer and after a huge gap in dancing I was intimidated about going to a drop in/ professional studio but the instructors were so friendly and knowledgeable. They have classes for all levels. The website has all the required information with a well defined schedule and it’s so easy to book a class.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome place and perfect for ferndale. Its the dance studio you've been looking for!

Source: Google

★ 5

absolutely amazing!

Source: Google

★ 5

It has been so fun to dance and learn choreography again! I grew up dancing on teams and in studios and haven’t danced since moving to the area a few years ago. RELEASE is the drop-in studio with classes for adults of all skill levels and styles that I have been waiting for! It is beautiful inside and all of the teachers have a unique style and are really great teachers and choreographers. If you are thinking about it, do it!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great studio and organized dance classes w great instructors. Needs better parking tho

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google