Discover the best dance studios in Manhattan for your next event

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Written by Tara Monjazeb - March 01 2024


Five rehearsal spaces to rent in Manhattan


Maybe you’ve done ballet since you were an infant, or you just watched Frances Ha in college, but either way, a dance lover’s heart is in Manhattan. Home to Broadway and considered the dance capital of the world, there are endless opportunities in this city. Whether you want to perfect a TikTok dance or prepare for a Broadway audition, you’ll need somewhere private to do it.


Here are our picks for the best dance studios and rehearsal spaces to rent in Manhattan.


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Gibney Dance Studio Rehearsal Space Rent Book NYC
Gibney Dance Studio Rehearsal Space Rent Book NYC

1. A Manhattan rehearsal studio that gives back to the city: Gibney Dance

Chelsea, New York

Gibney is a community-focused performing arts hub with two locations in Union Square and Civic Center. For 31 years, they have worked at the intersection of art and social justice to foster change in the city, both on and beyond the stage. Their Community Action program provides movement workshops for survivors of gender-based violence and their families and also has a youth-centered program that uses dance to start conversations about healthy relationships.


They have several spaces to rent, and the prices vary depending on non-profit (from $60-100/hr) or for-profit (from $70-150/hr) use. Small, medium, large, and extra-large spaces are available, for 2 to 60 people in Union Square and 8 to 48 in Civic Center. They also offer subsidized rates and residence programs for emerging artists.



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Open Jar Studios Rehearsal Space Dance Studio Rent NYC
Open Jar Studios Rehearsal Space Dance Studio Rent NYC

2. 24/7 rehearsal spaces for rent in Manhattan: Open Jar Studios

Midtown, New York

Among the cluster of rehearsal spaces near Broadway is Open Jar, nestled in the heart of Times Square. Home to the largest studios in NYC, these column-free rooms are ideal for large-scale productions. High ceilings, sprung dance floors, grand pianos, and acoustically treated walls allow flexibility for even the most complicated of performances.


There are 22 rooms available to rent, and rates start at $19.50 an hour. The largest rooms, studios 11A and 11B, can hold up to 125 each or 300 combined. Smaller rooms can hold anywhere from 4 to 50, for intimate productions or breakout rehearsal rooms.


The studios are open 24/7, for late night or early morning creative bursts, and daily lockers are available for free. There’s also a kitchen and lounge area to relax or fuel up between sessions.



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Ripley Grier Rehearsal Space Dance Studio Rent NYC
Ripley Grier Rehearsal Space Dance Studio Rent NYC

3. Abundant dance studios to rent near Broadway, Manhattan: Ripley Grier

Midtown, New York

With four locations and nearly 100 spaces in NYC alone, Ripley Grier claims to be the largest rehearsal facility in the world. Considering the odds, there’s a chance that at least one of your neighbors will make it to Broadway – maybe it’ll even be you.


There are two locations near Times Square, within close distance of Broadway and its iconic stages, and a further two in Hell’s Kitchen (by Carnegie Hall) and the Upper West Side (near Lincoln Center and the Beacon Theatre). Prices range between $10 and $100 hourly, depending on size and amenities. Day and weekly rates are also available for long-term projects, and discounts are provided for union members and students.


The spaces vary in size to accommodate anything from one-man shows to large-scale ensembles, and many of them have pianos available. The buildings have additional rooms such as voice-over studios and performance spaces.



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Pearl Studios Rehearsal Space Dance Studio Rent NYC
Pearl Studios Rehearsal Space Dance Studio Rent NYC

4. A multi-floor rehearsal space to rent in Manhattan: Pearl Studios

Midtown, New York

A few (tap) steps away from Broadway is Pearl Studios, a multi-floor rehearsal space with several options for booking rehearsal and audition spaces. Evening and daytime slots are available, meaning you can dance before your shift at Ellen’s Stardust Diner or after your 9-5 FiDi job.


Various sized rooms are available to rent out, with bigger spaces (50x20) for $120/hr or smaller for under $100/hr. Each room has a Yamaha or Kawai piano and Bluetooth speakers, and depending on your purpose, you can book rooms with mirrors, acoustical curtains, and sprung wood or Marley floors. Non-profit and union rates are also offered.



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PMT House of Dance Rehearsal Space Dance Studio Rent NYC
PMT House of Dance Rehearsal Space Dance Studio Rent NYC

5. A dance school with rehearsal spaces to rent in Manhattan: PMT House of Dance

Flatiron District, New York

Since 2001, the PMT House of Dance has been a staple in the dance community of New York, offering classes ranging from jazz to ballet to hip hop. For experienced dancers (or shy amateurs), they offer four spaces to rent. Prices vary between $20 and $200 per hour, depending on the event type and capacity, and subsidized spaces are available for as low as $10/hr.


Studio A and Studio B are over 1,000 square feet with high ceilings, sprung Marley and wood floors, and PA sound systems. The smaller Studio C is 300 square feet and holds 5 dancers or 12 motionless performers. The 25x25 performance space has a seating capacity for up to 75, and full-day rates vary between $1500 and $3000.


Add-ons include a lighting and sound technician, a box office, and reception. All rentals include full-length mirrors, ballet barres, and folding tables and tables for up to 50 people.



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Find the perfect dance studio near Manhattan.

Let rhythm rule at a dance studio in Manhattan, where every step is a story. Rent a space that moves with your tempo and book an event where the city’s beat is at your feet. In Manhattan, every pirouette and plié choreographs a night to remember.

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The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Dance Studio in Manhattan

Ah, Manhattan—the land of towering skyscrapers, yellow cabs, and the eternal struggle to find rehearsal spaces. Whether you're a budding dancer, a seasoned professional, or someone who's convinced your latest TikTok dance will break the internet, finding the perfect dance studio in this bustling metropolis is no small feat. But fear not! This exhaustive guide will walk you through the ins and outs of privately hiring a dance studio in Manhattan.

Step 1: Identifying Your Dance Studio Needs

What's the Purpose? Before you dive into the sea of dance studios, pinpoint the purpose of your studio hire. Are you:

  1. Rehearsing for a Broadway audition?

  2. Teaching a private class?

  3. Planning a flash mob proposal?

  4. Just need a space to nail the latest TikTok trend?

  5. Knowing your purpose helps narrow down the options. Trust us, Manhattan has everything from tiny rooms where you can barely pirouette to spacious dance floors that could host a Beyoncé concert.

How Much Space Do You Need? Are you a solo dancer, a duo, or a 20-member crew? Consider:

  1. Spacious studios for large groups and grand jetés.

  2. Cozy nooks for intimate rehearsals and interpretive dance.

Step 2: Scouring the Concrete Jungle

Online Search Fire up HeadBox and enter your requirements. How big? How much are you willing to spend? What dates do you need it? Have a look around at the options that suit you. You'll get a plethora of results, from hidden gems to well-known dance hubs that match your capacity, prices and availability.

Step 3: Evaluating Your Options

Location, Location, Location Manhattan is more than just Times Square. Consider:

  1. Upper West Side for a sophisticated vibe.

  2. Midtown for convenience.

  3. SoHo for artsy flair.

  4. Harlem for a vibrant cultural scene.

Amenities Check Does the studio have:

  1. Mirrors to perfect your form?

  2. Sound systems to blast your tunes?

  3. Air conditioning (because nobody likes a sweaty dancer)?

  4. Changing rooms (bonus if they don't resemble a broom closet)?

Reviews and Recommendations Don't just take the studio's word for it. Check out reviews on Google, Yelp, and dance forums. Word of mouth from fellow dancers can be invaluable.

Step 4: Making the Call (or Email)

Be Ready with Questions When contacting studios, have a list of questions ready:

  1. What are the rates for private hire?

  2. Is the space available at your preferred times?

  3. Are there any additional fees (cleaning, insurance, etc.)?

  4. Can you visit the studio before booking?

Flexibility is Key Be prepared to be flexible with your dates and times. Manhattan studios are in high demand, and you might need to adjust your schedule to fit into theirs.

Step 5: Visiting the Studio

First Impressions Pay attention to:

  1. Cleanliness: Is the floor spotless or are you dodging dust bunnies?

  2. Acoustics: How does the sound carry? You want to hear your music, not your next-door neighbor’s argument.

  3. Vibe: Do you feel inspired when you walk in, or does it feel like a dungeon? Your surroundings can impact your performance.

  4. Test the Equipment: Ask if you can test the sound system and lighting. You don't want any surprises on the day of your rehearsal or event.

Step 6: Sealing the Deal

Reading the Fine Print Carefully read the contract:

  1. Cancellation policy: Life happens—know your options.

  2. Overtime charges: Just in case your rehearsal turns into a dance marathon.

  3. Damage deposit: Accidents happen, but they shouldn’t break the bank.

  4. Payment Details: Confirm the payment method and schedule. Some places might want a deposit upfront, while others might be fine with payment on the day.

Step 7: The Big Day

Arrive Early Give yourself plenty of time to set up, warm up, and get into the zone.

Respect the Space Treat the studio as if it's your own:

  1. Clean up after yourself.

  2. Follow any posted rules.

  3. Be mindful of noise levels if there are other classes nearby.

  4. Enjoy Your Time This is your moment. Whether you're practicing, teaching, or just dancing your heart out, make the most of it.

Conclusion

Finding and privately hiring a dance studio in Manhattan can feel like hunting for the Holy Grail, but with a bit of research, persistence, and maybe a dash of humor, you’ll find the perfect spot to let your inner dancer shine. Remember, whether you’re planning a grand performance or just need a place to perfect your moves, Manhattan’s dance studios are ready to welcome you—just don’t forget to stretch first!

Happy dancing!

Frequently asked questions

The cost of renting a dance studio in Manhattan can vary widely depending on the size, location, and amenities of the studio. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $100 per hour. High-end studios with extensive facilities and prime locations may charge more, while smaller or less centrally located studios might offer more affordable rates. It's always a good idea to check for any additional fees such as cleaning charges or equipment rentals.

Start by identifying your specific needs, such as the size of the space, the type of flooring, availability of mirrors, sound systems, and air conditioning. Use online search engines and keywords like "Manhattan dance studio hire," "rent dance studio Manhattan," and "spacious dance studio rehearsal Manhattan" to find options. Websites like DanceNYC and NYC Dance Resource Center can provide comprehensive listings. Reading reviews and getting recommendations from other dancers can also help you find the perfect studio.

Yes, most dance studios in Manhattan allow prospective renters to visit the space before making a booking. It's highly recommended to schedule a visit to ensure the studio meets your needs in terms of size, amenities, and overall vibe. During your visit, check the cleanliness, test the sound system and lighting, and ensure the space feels right for your rehearsal or event.

When renting a dance studio in Manhattan, it's important to inquire about any additional fees beyond the hourly rental rate. Common additional charges might include cleaning fees, insurance fees, equipment rental fees (for sound systems or special lighting), and overtime charges if you exceed your booked time. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of all costs to avoid any surprises.

When renting a dance studio, you should bring any personal equipment you might need, such as your music playlist, dance shoes, costumes, and any props for your rehearsal. It's also a good idea to bring water, snacks, and any necessary paperwork, such as your rental agreement or proof of payment. If the studio doesn’t provide them, you might also need to bring your own portable speakers or additional lighting.

For peace of mind and an easy booking process let us know exactly what you’re looking for via our brief builder. This way we can approach the best dance studio hire in Manhattan with the exact needs of your event.

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Launching in NYC soon.

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