Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Dance School in San Antonio Since 1929
Founded in 1929 by Earle and Dorothy Cobb, our studio has been a cornerstone of dance education in San Antonio for three generations. Starting in a modest second-floor space, we've grown into a state-of-the-art facility with five studios, serving over 500 students annually. Our philosophy of 'Smile and have fun!' remains central to our approach, blending technical excellence with joyful learning. Under the direction of Dena Mabry, granddaughter of the founders, we continue to nurture poise, grace, and strength in students aged 2 to adult. Our alumni include professional dancers and instructors who carry forward our legacy of excellence.With age-appropriate instruction in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, and more, we ensure every student receives personalized attention. Our facility features parent observation windows and seating, fostering transparency and engagement. From the Jazz Age to modern hip hop, we've preserved the timeless joy of dance while embracing evolving styles. We pride ourselves on maintaining small class sizes to ensure optimal student-to-teacher ratios. Join us in continuing this 95-year tradition of dance excellence in a welcoming, family-oriented environment.
Services
Ballet
Tap
Jazz
Pointe
Lyrical
Leaps & Turns
Acro Dance
Hip Hop
Details
- Year established: 1929
Highlights and features
- Three generations of dance education expertise since 1929
- State-of-the-art facility with five dedicated dance studios
- Offers 7+ dance styles including Ballet, Tap, and Hip Hop
- Maintains small class sizes for personalized instruction
- Combines technical excellence with joyful learning environment
Services
Ballet Classes
Our Ballet program teaches classical technique from beginner to advanced levels. Students develop proper posture, grace, and discipline through structured curriculum. Classes emphasize foundational skills while fostering artistic expression in a supportive environment.
Tap Dance
Tap classes focus on rhythm, coordination, and musicality using specialized footwear. Students learn various styles from traditional Broadway tap to modern percussive techniques. Classes build both technical proficiency and performance confidence.
Hip Hop
Contemporary Hip Hop instruction covers street dance styles and current trends. Students develop rhythm, body control, and improvisation skills in an energetic environment. Classes emphasize personal expression while maintaining technical standards.
Lyrical Dance
Lyrical classes combine ballet technique with emotional storytelling through movement. Students learn to interpret music and express emotions physically in a creative, supportive setting. Focus on fluid transitions and artistic interpretation.
Acro Dance
Acro Dance integrates dance technique with acrobatic elements. Students develop flexibility, strength, and balance through safe, progressive skill development. Classes emphasize proper alignment and controlled execution of tumbling moves.
People
Earle Cobb
Founder
Established the studio in 1929, creating a foundation for three generations of dance education in San Antonio. His vision emphasized technical excellence combined with joyful learning.
Dorothy Cobb
Co-Founder
Co-founded the studio with Earle Cobb, helping shape its early curriculum and family-oriented approach. Her influence continues through the studio's enduring commitment to student development.
Sandra Cobb Mabry
Former Director
Managed the studio's growth from its early days to a modern dance institution. Maintained the founders' vision while expanding facilities and program offerings.
Dena Mabry
Current Director
Third-generation director continuing the family legacy. Oversees daily operations and instructional programs, ensuring the studio maintains its reputation for excellence and innovation.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Pointe, Lyrical, Leaps & Turns, Acro Dance, and Hip Hop classes for students ages 2 through adult.
Do you offer birthday party packages?
Yes! We provide dance-themed birthday parties with professional instructors, choreography, and themed decorations. Packages range from $275-$390 based on duration and guest count.
What are your facility features?
Our state-of-the-art facility includes five dance studios, parent observation windows, seating areas, and maintains small class sizes for optimal instruction.
How long are your dance classes?
Class durations vary by age and style, typically ranging from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Specific schedules are available for different dance genres and skill levels.
Reviews (5)
Karen Owens
Sep 24, 2020
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Earle Cobb has lots of classes and instructors. Students with various levels attend and there is a place for everyone. Summer is a great time to try a class bc there are 1, 2 and 3 day camps as well as a summer class schedule. Goodluck!
Kensington Van Buskirk
Jun 11, 2020
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
ECDS is the best!!! I love dancing at Earle Cobb! I've grown so much as a dancer and person! Everybody is so nice, talented, and welcoming! I have made some great dance friends!!! Join the family! :)
ECDS is the best!!! I love dancing at Earle Cobb! I've grown so much as a dancer and person! Everybody is so nice, talented, and welcoming! I have made some great dance friends!!! Join the family! :)
Whitney Banis
Sep 23, 2019
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A second family to us, I've danced here since I was 3. The teachers are the nicest people you'll ever meet, and the classes are challenging but easy to understand. The treat their students with such care it's honestly the sweetest thing.
Tammy Sanchez
Nov 14, 2017
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If you want a traditional dance studio for you child, this is the place to be! Many people have tried a lot of studios for their children and are not happy with them. Once they switch to Earle Cobb, they stay. Instructors treat your children with respect and are all very talented. They truly become your second family
Theresa Lyons
Jun 30, 2017
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We have been very pleased with all of our experiences with Earle Cobb studios over the last 5 years. The owner and the teachers reflect the philosophy of the studio, encouraging the love of dance.
