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Expressions Dance & Movement Center

Dance school · San Diego, CA · reviewed since 2015

How the Experts Score is calculatedEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (standing in the category can only raise it), then weighted; problems flagged in review highlights or a recent slide in ratings are subtracted:Satisfaction 64%85+54Reliability 28%62+17.5Replies to reviews 8%68+5.6Experts Score= 77Not enough data for value; its weight is shared by the others.Grade B: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39. Needs 10+ reviews.77SCORE
BGradeLetter from the Experts Score: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39, F = under 20.
#21 of 28 dance studiosPosition by Experts Score among all companies we track in this category. · better than 26%
4.9 ★★★★★ 168 Google reviews · 24 photos
96%five-star reviews
5.00★last 12 monthsAverage stars on reviews from the last 12 months only.
8.7%1–2★ in 2 yearsShare of 1–2★ reviews in the last 24 months — or the 20 newest reviews when the company had fewer than 20 in that time.
17%reviews answered by the owner
Jul 2026latest review

Expressions Dance & Movement Center at a glance

Google reviewers rate the studio 4.9 out of 5 based on 168 reviews, highlighting positive experiences with ballet, jazz, and hip hop classes for various age groups. Customers frequently describe the environment as inclusive and supportive, noting that staff members are patient, kind, and dedicated to helping students build confidence and technique. One criticism involves a claim that studio representatives engage in unethical practices by poaching students and copying routines from other dance schools, though this is an isolated incident among the positive feedback.

  • Google rating: 4.9 out of 5 from 168 reviews (96% five-star).
  • Reviews on this page: 168 Google reviews (148 with written comments, 11 with photos).
  • Owner responses: the business replied to 17% of reviews.
  • Most recent review: July 16, 2026.
  • Service: Dance Studio serving San Diego, California.

Data from Google, last updated November 1, 2026.

Score profile vs other dance studios

Score per factor (100 = best)Each factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (star average, share of 1–2★ reviews, price verdicts…); standing within the category can only raise it, never lower it.. Strongest: momentum and satisfaction; weakest: reliability.

Satisfaction85Reliability62Craft & service–Value–Momentum100Replies to reviews68Satisfaction: 85 (median 91)Reliability: 62 (median 93)Momentum: 100 (median 100)Replies to reviews: 68 (median 51)
This companyDance Studios median0 = centre, 100 = best
SatisfactionSatisfaction · 54% of the scoreRecency-weighted star average (2-year half-life), shrunk toward the category mean by review volume; the company’s own lifetime average as the prior; absolute: 4.0★ = 0, 5★ = 100.Expressions Dance & Movement Center: 85/100 on this factor. Category median: 91.A
85
ReliabilityReliability · 24% of the scoreHow rarely jobs go badly: share of 1–2★ reviews — 60% the last 24 months (or the 20 newest if fewer), 40% all-time; 0% = 100, 15%+ = 0; the category percentile can only raise it.Expressions Dance & Movement Center: 62/100 on this factor. Category median: 93.B
62
Craft & serviceCraft & service · penalty only, up to −10 pointsGoogle review highlights: Quality, Professionalism, Responsiveness, Punctuality — how rarely reviewers flag them as a negative, per review since highlights began; 0% = 100, 5%+ = 0. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in — clean highlights are the norm, not a bonus.Not enough reviews for this factor yet. Category median: 95.–
–
ValueValue · 14% of the scoreCustomers’ own price verdicts (Great / Reasonable vs Overpriced) and Value highlights; 65% absolute (all “reasonable” ≈ 80, “great” = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Not enough reviews for this factor yet. Category median: 97.–
–
MomentumMomentum · penalty only, up to −10 pointsPenalises only a real slide: last-12-month average below lifetime (−0.5★ = 0). Still 4.8★+ over the last year, or steady/improving = 100. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in.Expressions Dance & Movement Center: 100/100 on this factor. Category median: 100.A
100
Replies to reviewsReplies to reviews · 7% of the scoreHow often the owner publicly replies to reviews under 5★ (1–4★). Needs 3+ such reviews, otherwise not counted; 65% absolute (80%+ replied = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Expressions Dance & Movement Center: 68/100 on this factor. Category median: 51.B
68

Bar = this company · dark tick = category median.

Star ratings

168 Google reviews we collected

  • 5 stars16196%
  • 4 stars11%
  • 3 stars11%
  • 2 stars11%
  • 1 star42%

Praise vs complaints

Phrases our text analysis found in 148 written reviews

  • Praise7996%
  • Complaints34%

Topic share

How often each topic comes up in the written reviews

  • Staff & attitude5162%
  • Would recommend1012%
  • Quality & results810%
  • Communication67%
  • Honesty & trust45%
  • Price & value22%
  • Speed & response11%

What customers talk about

We read 148 written reviews and marked every phrase about these topics. The same colors are highlighted in the reviews.

  • “All the teachers are incredible, so kind, fair and dedicated.”
  • “EDMC is a super positive dance community that I highly recommend!”
  • “Miss Shaylin is great with young dancers and really takes the time to make sure every child has a great experience.”
  • “…fer and how they are executed, and how each staff member and teacher communicates and interacts with each family and child.…”
  • “This will be our 8th year at the studio, and I can honestly say the owner, staff and teachers continue to exceed our expectations every year.”

People customers mention

  • Shaylin 24 reviews
  • Alexandria 19 reviews
  • Katie 14 reviews
  • Natalia 14 reviews
  • Sabrina 10 reviews
  • Peyton 10 reviews

praise complaint · found by our text analysis, Google review wording unchanged.

Recent reviews

Michelle4 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited 10 months ago★★★★★

My daughter's have been dancing at expressions for over 13 years. They have grown so much and they have had nothing but good experiences. Clean, safe, student focused, age appropriate music and costumes. They have become leaders, teachers, and improved dance and life skills.

BrittanieLocal Guide · 17 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 10 months ago★★★★★

We have been attending Mini 1 on Saturdays and our little girl is thriving. She looks forward to “class dance,” every week! Her first recital was gold. We love expressions!

Joni5 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a year ago★★★★★

My daughter has been at EDMC for 6 years and is part of the performing group. We absolutely LOVE this studio. The teachers have made an incredible, positive impact on my daughter! She has learned amazing dance technique, strength and gained so much confidence. All the teachers are incredible, so kind, fair and…

Kimberly2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a year ago★★

I signed up my daughter for their Summer Tippy Toes class (2-3 years w/ parents) about two years ago and paid full price for it. My daughter was 2.5 years old at the time. Through out all four sessions (every Saturday 9:00-9:30 am), all my daughter did was sitting there watching class activities without doing…

Ashley6 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited a year ago★★★★★

This is our second season with Expressions and we love this studio so much! The whole staff is so kind and helpful and knowledgeable. My daughter continues to gain more friends and comradery while coming here. And she takes 2 classes with Miss Alexandria and she is thriving. I got to observe her inside the class…

jonathanLocal Guide · 26 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a year ago★★★★★

Our daughter participates in the Elev8 class, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the warmth, patience, and skill Miss Shaylin brings to each and every session. It’s clear Miss Shaylin truly enjoys what she does, and it shines through in how she connects with dancers of all ages and abilities. She creates a safe,…

Photos

Customer reviews

4.9 ★★★★★ 168 reviews on Google · rating breakdown

Reviews from Google, shown as published (original wording, unedited).

Team members customers mention
Filter by topic — each topic is highlighted in the reviews in the same color
Michelle Vergne4 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Michelle has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

My daughter's have been dancing at expressions for over 13 years. They have grown so much and they have had nothing but good experiences. Clean, safe, student focused, age appropriate music and costumes. They have become leaders, teachers, and improved dance and life skills.

Brittanie HaszelLocal Guide · 17 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Brittanie has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

We have been attending Mini 1 on Saturdays and our little girl is thriving. She looks forward to “class dance,” every week! Her first recital was gold. We love expressions!

Joni Moravec5 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Joni has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

My daughter has been at EDMC for 6 years and is part of the performing group. We absolutely LOVE this studio. The teachers have made an incredible, positive impact on my daughter! She has learned amazing dance technique, strength and gained so much confidence. All the teachers are incredible, so kind, fair and dedicated. EDMC is a super positive dance community that I highly recommend!

Kimberly Chen2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Kimberly has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

I signed up my daughter for their Summer Tippy Toes class (2-3 years w/ parents) about two years ago and paid full price for it. My daughter was 2.5 years old at the time. Through out all four sessions (every Saturday 9:00-9:30 am), all my daughter did was sitting there watching class activities without doing anything no matter how much I encouraged her. I wish there were some warnings on their flyer or website that kids at this stage might not be ready for a class like this, and with more than 10 kids per class, the instruction/guidance each kid received was just minimal. I feel I was exploited as a naive new parent and will not consider sending my kids there for dance lessons in the future.

Response from the owner · a year ago

Thank you for sharing your feedback regarding your daughter's Summer Tippy Toes class experience two years ago. We are truly sorry to hear that the class did not meet your expectations and that you felt unsupported as a new parent. We understand your frustration when your daughter wasn't engaging as you had hoped, despite your efforts. We also appreciate your suggestion about providing more clear expectations on our flyers and website regarding developmental readiness for our youngest dancers. This is valuable feedback, and we are reviewing our communication materials to ensure they better prepare parents for what to expect in our early childhood classes. We are continuously working to improve our programs, and your comments regarding individualized attention for our youngest students are being taken to heart. We strive to create a nurturing and engaging environment for all our dancers, and it's clear we fell short in your experience. We regret that you will not consider us for future dance lessons, but we truly value your honest review as it helps us identify areas for improvement and better serve our community. I’m happy to offer you a month of free classes to try again, if you ever change your mind. I'm also happy to offer you a full refund on the class you took 2 years ago, if you come by the studio. I can't find any record of your concerns being shared with the front desk, but we are always willing to work with parents to make things right when they have concerns. Thank you again for sharing your experience with us.

Ashley Jo Navarro6 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Ashley has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

This is our second season with Expressions and we love this studio so much! The whole staff is so kind and helpful and knowledgeable. My daughter continues to gain more friends and comradery while coming here. And she takes 2 classes with Miss Alexandria and she is thriving. I got to observe her inside the class during Parent Participation week and I love that she challenges them and speaks to them not as kids but as peers. We recommend everyone come here because it is very much a family environment, not just your little dancer.

Jaime Harvey2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Jaime has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

This will be our 8th year at the studio, and I can honestly say the owner, staff and teachers continue to exceed our expectations every year. Together, they have created a remarkable place where my girls aren’t simply being taught the art and technique of dance, they are also learning their potential is limitless, that they can do hard things, that they are unique and gifted, that winning is striving for your best and lifting others up, and that they truly can make a positive difference in the world. The studio owner Miss Darcy, the teachers and staff don’t simply have a philosophy and vision to help each child and family feel seen, valued and needed; they treat each child and family with exceptional and genuine care, concern and kindness. Their recital themes, like Dream Big and Don’t Stop Believing, are more than fun themes: they are foundational to all of the decisions the studio leaders make, the programs they offer and how they are executed, and how each staff member and teacher communicates and interacts with each family and child. This past week, my 14 year old was feeling lots of big emotions about disappointments and changes coming her way due to the end of middle school and not achieving a dance goal she was hoping for, and her teachers Miss Stephanie, Miss Brittany, Miss Katie and Miss Emma not only noticed she was struggling, they reached out to both me and her to offer support and encouragement and to lift her up. Miss Brittany anticipated her needs and talked with me about how to help, and Miss Emma even got her a little gift since it is teacher appreciation week, and my daughter is her teaching assistant. What could have been a devastating time for my daughter leaving her feeling isolated and deflated has become a moment of redirection, reflection and renewed motivation. Her teachers rallying around her has helped her (and me!) feel even more connected and cared about than before, which I didn’t know was possible! I couldn’t be more grateful and moved by how she and our family is truly seen and loved. This is simply one example of how my girls have been positively impacted by their teachers and leaders at the studio—I literally could type all day! But I want to give a shoutout to all of the staff, teachers and jr faculty who have gone above and beyond for us and embraced us into the EDMC family with warmth and kindness: Miss Darcy, Karen, Juliette, Annika, Kendra, Polly, Crystal, Shaina, Brittany, Amanda, Jenn, Lisa, Shaylin, Alexandria, Emma, Katie, Natalia, Stephanie, Carina, Sabrina, Jessie D, Izze R, Ella S, Sarah R, Emma C and more I am probably forgetting!

jonathan camacho maldonadoLocal Guide · 26 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews jonathan has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Our daughter participates in the Elev8 class, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the warmth, patience, and skill Miss Shaylin brings to each and every session. It’s clear Miss Shaylin truly enjoys what she does, and it shines through in how she connects with dancers of all ages and abilities. She creates a safe, inclusive space where each dancer feels welcomed, supported, and encouraged. My daughter looks forward to class every week, absolutely lights up when she’s there and she CAN'T WAIT to perform in the upcoming Spring recital! Miss Alexandria lights up the room with her contagious enthusiasm and genuine love for teaching. She has a magical way of keeping young dancers engaged, focused, and—most importantly—having fun. Her approach blends structure with playfulness, making tap and ballet something my 4 year old daughter looks forward to (almost) every week!

Michelle HardyLocal Guide · 15 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Michelle has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Expressions Dance and Movement Center has been a truly wonderful and supportive place where our girls have not only developed their dance skills but also discovered more about themselves and their role in a caring community. The warm, family-like environment and the encouragement from every teacher mean so much to us. The idiom "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts" applies to this amazing organization, but it is nice to give specific shout outs to encourage each of you..so here goes from our family. Ms Katie – Thank you for bringing such an incredible balance of discipline and joy to ballet class. Ms. Natalia – We’re so grateful for the thoughtful guidance you provide through the assistant program. You go beyond teaching dance—you’re helping the girls build life and leadership skills that will carry them far into the future. Ms. Brittany – Thank you for being such a supportive and inspiring jazz teacher. Your energy, encouragement, and genuine care create a space where the girls feel seen and motivated. Ms. Briana – Your kindness and thoughtful teaching style make such a difference in ballet class. The way you offer clear, constructive feedback is especially appreciated. Ms. Bex – Thank you for bringing so much energy and excitement to hip hop class! Ms. Amanda – Thank you for being such a supportive and encouraging tap teacher. Your guidance has helped me grow! Ms. Stephanie – We’re so thankful for the positivity and warmth you’ve brought to lyrical class, especially as you’ve stepped in to cover. Ms. Jenn – You are truly inspiring! Your fabulous energy and passion for PG Tap push us to do our best, not just in dance but in how we see and understand ourselves. Ms. Shaylyn – Thank you for making musical theater class so much fun! Your ability to let us be ourselves and encourage our ideas and imagination creates such a positive, open environment. Ms. Lisa – Your passion for dance is truly inspiring, and it shines through in every class. Your focus, high expectations, and ability to adapt on the fly show how deeply you care about your students' growth. Ms. Darcy – You are the heart and soul of Expressions Dance and Movement Center, and we are so thankful for the incredible space you’ve created for our daughters. Your compassion, authenticity, and fun energy make every class a place of growth and joy. You’ve built more than just a studio—you’ve created a true home away from home. Your out-of-the-box thinking, passion for dance, community, and wellness inspire us all. You encourage each dancer to be themselves, love themselves, and care for one another, both on and off the dance floor. We are beyond grateful for the opportunity to be part of your vision and for everything you do to lift up your students and their families. We are truly grateful for each and every teacher and administrator at Expressions Dance and Movement Center. We feel so lucky to be part of this wonderful community!

Brittany Connor1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews Brittany has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Ms Shaylin and the whole EDMC staff have been so supportive. I have a toddler in a class with Ms Shaylin. We started the year doing the class with our dancer and, as the year progresses, Ms Shaylin has been helping parents transition out of the room. She’s made it a gradual progression and has helped the dancers gain their confidence in their process. She has also been so encouraging and patient as the dancers learn their recital routine. We appreciate her!

Whitney Deuel5 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Whitney has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Another dance year almost done and we couldn't be happier with the dance education our daughter is receiving. Our daughter has strengthened her skills and enjoys being challenged by Miss Brittany (ballet) and Miss Stephanie (jazz). She has so much fun learning new choreo with Ms. Bex in hip hop and assisting the younger kids each week in their classes as well. Highly recommend EDMC!

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