Business Details
30 Years
experience
Dance Classes for All Ages in San Francisco
Founded in 1996, MoBu Dance Studio has been a cornerstone of San Francisco's dance community for nearly three decades. Our mission centers on fostering self-expression, creativity, and joy through dance for individuals of all ages. With two dedicated studio spaces in Noe Valley, we offer comprehensive programs in ballet, hip-hop, contemporary, and creative movement, taught by experienced instructors committed to nurturing both technical skill and artistic individuality. Our philosophy emphasizes inclusivity over competition, welcoming students regardless of body type or experience level.Through annual performances, summer camps, and community classes, we cultivate a supportive environment where dancers develop confidence, discipline, and lifelong appreciation for movement. The studio's legacy includes alumni pursuing professional dance careers and maintaining lifelong connections to the art form. Our specialized teaching methods integrate improvisation, choreography, and collaborative learning to create holistic dance experiences. With flexible scheduling and scholarship opportunities, we strive to make dance accessible to all members of our community.
Services
Ballet Classes
Hip-Hop Instruction
Contemporary Dance
Summer Dance Camps
Studio Rentals
Community Programs
Creative Movement
Yoga Sessions
Scholarship Programs
Performance Training
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer 29 years of proven dance education experience in San Francisco
- Our curriculum includes 4 specialized dance styles with progressive skill development
- Community-focused programs serving over 200 families annually
- Scholarship opportunities ensure dance accessibility for all income levels
- Two fully-equipped studios with flexible rental options available
Services
Ballet Training
Our ballet program develops technical proficiency through structured training in musicality, coordination, and physical strength. Students progress from foundational techniques to advanced pointe work with instructor approval. The curriculum emphasizes proper form and artistic expression while preparing dancers for various performance styles.
Hip-Hop Classes
Dynamic hip-hop sessions combine jazz funk, house, and breakdance elements in a welcoming environment for all skill levels. Instructors focus on rhythm development, personal style creation, and cultural appreciation through movement. Classes incorporate freestyle opportunities and choreography instruction.
Summer Dance Camps
Annual summer camps provide intensive skill-building experiences for children and teens through structured dance instruction and creative collaboration. Age-specific programs (K-5th and 6th-10th grades) feature experienced teaching staff and supervised activities that foster artistic growth and social development.
Studio Rentals
Two professional dance studios available for workshops, rehearsals, and special events with sound systems and dance-specific amenities. Church Street location offers 625 sq ft space while Day Street provides 1200 sq ft with flexible pricing based on event type and duration.
Community Classes
Accessible dance and movement classes designed for adult participants with varying experience levels. Offerings include Afro-Caribbean dance, Feldenkrais method sessions, and yoga programs tailored to specific needs like fertility care and senior mobility.
People
Takami Craddock
Founder & Director
Established DancEsteem in 1996 with three students, growing it into a thriving program serving over 200 families. Developed the studio's unique teaching methodology emphasizing creative expression and individual growth.
Virginia O'Hanlon
Instructor
Teaches Afro-Caribbean dance classes focusing on cultural rhythms from Cuba, Brazil, and Haiti. Specializes in making dance accessible to older adults while maintaining technical rigor and cultural authenticity.
Rowena Mittal
Yoga Instructor
Certified yoga instructor offering multiple styles including vinyasa, hatha, and fertility-focused practices. Combines movement instruction with mindfulness techniques to create holistic wellness experiences for diverse participants.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We provide instruction in ballet, hip-hop, contemporary, and creative movement, with specialized programs in Afro-Caribbean dance and yoga variations.
Are classes available for adults?
Yes, we offer multiple adult-focused classes including yoga, community dance sessions, and Feldenkrais method instruction for various age groups.
Do you have scholarship programs?
We maintain a scholarship fund to assist families with financial needs through community donations and partnerships with local organizations.
Can I rent your studio space?
Both studios are available for rent with hourly rates varying by location and event type. Contact us for specific pricing and availability.
What is your teaching philosophy?
Our approach emphasizes creativity over competition, focusing on self-expression, technical development, and building confidence through collaborative dance experiences.
How do I register for classes?
Registration details vary by program. Most classes can be joined through our website or by contacting instructors directly via email.
Reviews (5)
Yvonne Fae
Jul 01, 2018
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The most amazing dance program. Takami, Marissa, and Stephanie are amazing. They inspire the girls and teach the older girls how to mentor the younger girls. So happy to have been part of this community for the past 7 years.
Jeremiah S.
May 06, 2017
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MoBu is a magic place. Takami is the magician. My daughter loves dance because of her and her studio. If you would like to introduce your child to ballet &/or modern dance, this is a welcoming place to do so. I wish Yelp allowed 6 stars for special circumstances because it is warranted. Driving around SF has become a nightmare, and yet I look forward to going across town to Noe Valley on Saturday mornings.
Christine W.
Feb 25, 2014
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I've been taking zumba classes here with my friend on sunday for awhile now! It's always a great workout and lots of fun. The Zumba classes are usually pretty packed so it's hard to find enough space to do all the move. I just bought another 10 class pass so will be back for more zumba on the weekends :)
Carolyn C.
Jan 31, 2014
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Takami Craddock is an amazing dance instructor. She is very dedicated to her students, serious about her work, but at the same time very positive with the kids. As other reviewers mentioned, she really cares about each of them. My daughter has been taking the teen dance class on Thursdays for two years now and she loves the class. The world needs more positive role models like Takami! Her classes are reasonably priced and the studio is in an excellent location.
Jessica T.
Apr 01, 2013
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I actually have an aversion (well...deep down it's a strong affinity) to mirrors.
Seriously. Since I was a kid I've been making an uber bizarre mirror face- whenever my reflection is presented before me. It's a weird mix of Blue Steel meets Top Model. I can't help but give face to any and every mirror that I come in contact with. It got so bad during middle school and high school that I never got any work done when I was in my room. I would sit vainly in front of my bedroom mirror and just stare at myself. Stare at myself doing work. Stare at myself no longer doing work.
Seriously. Since I was a kid I've been making an uber bizarre mirror face- whenever my reflection is presented before me. It's a weird mix of Blue Steel meets Top Model. I can't help but give face to any and every mirror that I come in contact with. It got so bad during middle school and high school that I never got any work done when I was in my room. I would sit vainly in front of my bedroom mirror and just stare at myself. Stare at myself doing work. Stare at myself no longer doing work.
