The Underground Dance Centre

The Underground Dance Centre operates from two adjacent buildings at 224 and 220 Richmond Street West in downtown Toronto, a two-minute walk from Osgoode Station. The studio is open Monday to Thursday 8am–11pm and Friday to Sunday 8am–11pm, with hours adjusted daily based on the class schedule.

Classes are organised by five levels: Beginner (for those new to dance or rusty), Beginner/Intermediate (seeking more challenge), Intermediate (with previous dance training), Intermediate/Advanced (ready for advanced work), and Advanced. The studio teaches street styles including Hip Hop, Jazz Funk, Dancehall and Popping, alongside classical styles such as Contemporary. Most classes are unrestricted by age, though those under 18 are recommended to have previous dance experience; Heels classes are for ages 16+. A new combination is taught each week, though instructors occasionally repeat by request.

The studio offers membership options tiered as "New Friends" (first-timers), "Old Friends" (returning members), and "Best Friends" (unlimited classes). A trial week on the 1x/week membership includes 4 classes; the regular rate is $28+HST per week. Pre-professional and professional dancers (members of CADA, ACTRA, EQUITY, or professional dance training programmes) are eligible for $10/week memberships or $15/class rates on Intermediate and Intermediate/Advanced classes with valid ID and supporting documentation. Classes can be booked up to 7 days in advance through the app or website; cancellation requires 2 hours' notice or the class is forfeited. Unlimited members incur a $5 no-show fee if they don't cancel before 2 hours and don't attend.

Change rooms and washrooms are available in both buildings; Building B also has showers. The studio prioritises student safety and comfort, adjusting class capacity based on studio size. Instructors offer modifications for injuries or physical limitations—notify them before class starts. Late arrivals are not permitted after 10 minutes; front-desk check-in is required even if you've registered online. Filming is permitted at the end of class with instructor approval; if you're uncomfortable being filmed, inform the teacher before class begins.

Beyond classes, the studio offers private lessons with experienced instructors for skill development and personalised feedback, and studio rentals for rehearsals and events. Rental spaces include The Grande (1,200 sq ft), The Bridge (1,100 sq ft), The Penthouse (775 sq ft), The Dark Room (820 sq ft), The Tower (750 sq ft), and The View (600 sq ft), all equipped with mirrors, sound systems, and dance floors. Online classes are available via Turnnout, the studio's online platform launched January 1, 2021, offering hundreds of on-demand classes for all levels and styles.

Arrive 5 minutes before class to check in at the front desk. Wear something that allows you to move freely; for classical styles like Contemporary, go barefoot or in socks; for street styles, wear runners or sneakers. Bring water, a towel, deodorant, and a change of clothes. Expect a new combination each week, modifications offered if you have injuries or limitations, and a welcoming environment at one of five difficulty levels.

Beginner classes welcome those new to dance or returning after time away; the studio has a level for everyone, and instructors offer modifications for injuries or physical limitations.