Opinions regarding aerial lessons?
I am looking for a place to sign my 13yo for aerial classes. Does anybody have experience with/thoughts about Upswing Aerial Dance or Tea Dancers in Berkeley? I see they use the same facility but have different directors, and I am wondering if they differ in approach or -- for lack of a better word -- vibe. My teen has really strugglednwitg anxiety and overwhelm since the beginning of the pandemic, and they need a kind & enthusiastic instructor and a place where they feel welcomed. They're also on the tall& heavy side and have become deconditioned over the past few years, so patience & skill with building up strength would be good.
I would also be interested if people have any experience with Skyhigh Odditorium or Kinetic Arts aerial programs.
Parent Replies
One main difference between Upswing Aerial Dance/Tea Dancers and Skyhigh Odditorum/Kinetic Arts Center is the style of aerial. Upswing and Tea Dancers seems to be more 'dance' related while Skyhigh and Kinetic Arts Center is more circus-style acrobatics. In my experience, circus studios are very accepting of every body and ability (aerial is hard!), but one place I would recommend in particular for the 'vibe' you are looking for is Athletic Playground in Emeryville. They have a very rich set of classes for kids and adults and I think they have built a nice laid-back community for anyone to feel welcome.