Hope Stone, Inc.

I love this place and can’t believe there’s only one other review on it! Part dance studio for kids and adult classes, part dance company, and part non-profit arts outreach…as Marisa says, something for everyone, even if you’re not taking classes! This review focuses on the adult dance and yoga classes.

My favorite part about the studio is probably the open, friendly environment. It’s sort of a judgment-free zone where everyone will feel comfortable, no matter what your level of experience.

The ballet and modern teachers are top notch – the same teachers you’ll find at Houston Ballet, UH, HSPVA, etc. including professional dancers and choreographers. When the studio is used to offer Pilates and West African dance, those instructors were also excellent.

Monti Mayrend, the yoga instructor, is one of the most unique personalities you’ll ever meet and a stickler for correct yoga placement. I’ve learned tons from his classes that help me in other types of yoga practice. Note that this is Iyengar Yoga, so there’s lots of breathing while holding poses, rather than Vinyasa flows to music. Each class will have a different focus (backbends, arms, restorative poses, etc.).

The classes are a good value. The 10-class cards last 6 months and can be used for a variety of classes (even yoga).

The studio itself is beautiful and the musicians add to the experience for the dance classes.

Tips:
-The studio is actually on Van Buren Street, towards the middle of the block (Clay is the address for the building itself).
-They usually offer a free class week at the beginning of each session, or see if you can get your first class free.
-Parking is on the street and there are 4 spaces at the warehouse across the street (get a parking tag from Hope Stone). If parking is tight, just wait for the prior class to let out and spots will open up.
-Get the 10 class cards, then sign in at the office and scan your card before the start of each class.
-There are 2 bathrooms to change in, one has a shower.
-All yoga props are available at the studio, but I’d bring my own mat as some of theirs have gotten a bit funky (not conducive to deep breathing…at least for me…hehe).
-Wear whatever you feel comfy moving in – people come in everything from full out gear to PJs and socks with loose hair…this isn’t one of those stuffy dance studios.

Go and enjoy!
~Vivian Li