The Pulse Performing Arts Center, Kansas City MO

There are so many dance studios in our city, and I am sure, one to fit every family's wishes for their child. The reasons we have chosen the Pulse for our children's dance education include the outstanding technical training, positive and healthy studio environment, and incredible performance opportunities. We have danced at the Pulse, beginning with their recreational dance program, and are now dancing competitively. Our kids spend hours at the studio and it feels like home. The faculty are like family. I have not seen a more inclusive studio. The studio is run with thoughtfulness for each child and their specific needs, not just focusing on the more rigorous competitive side of dance. Behind the scenes, the office is well organized and we have found that every detail of scheduling rehearsals, performances, and even making payments is made with the family in mind. Dance, both recreational and competitive can be extremely expensive and I have not found another studio that makes it more accessible to every family that wants to be a part. Our experience has been very positive, and we look forward to every new season. I see my children thriving and growing with their dance technique, and also as good people because of where they are spending their time.

If you’re in search of an inclusive dance studio that considers hair and makeup for not only white dancers but also people of color run far away. Since my 6-year-old daughter has joined I had multiple instructors ask if I am planning to keep braids in my daughter’s hair for competition. I have also experienced responses when a payment is due, and I have been asked on multiple occasions if I have enough money in my account. I have never missed a payment or had insufficient funds to cover dance or costume fees. I have never heard the receptionist ask white mom's if they have enough in their account to cover any fees. I have purposely sat there to ensure I wasn't the only parent that had been singled out, but unfortunately, that is the case and these comments are directed at non-white parents. Additionally, my daughter has stated on multiple occasions that none of the white dancers on her team will talk to her and her friends are two other black girls (who are the only people of color on the team). My daughter is social so this is abnormal for her.

I was also given mixed answers for an upcoming competition that we were scheduled to miss. The dance teacher said it is perfectly fine, but Curtis said this is unacceptable and I will need to make other travel arrangements (even though I explained the vacation was paid for a year in advance). He also said if I cannot rearrange my travel then my daughter would be removed from the team. Again, my daughter is 6 years old. He also refused to refund a recent dance fee for the competitions and said I am welcome to pick up her costume. Please don’t waste your money at this establishment, and find a dance studio that is inclusive and accommodating when things happen.