Frequently Asked Questions

At Cocojiu, we embrace the full spectrum of movement artistry. Our curriculum sparkles with contemporary, hip-hop, ballet foundations, jazz-funk, house, dancehall, and our signature fusion styles that blend Eastern and Western techniques. Each rhythm lives here as we believe dance is not just steps but a tapestry of cultural expressions woven into physical poetry.

Your body already knows how to dance—we just help you rediscover that truth. Whether you're a complete novice whose only dance floor has been your shower or a seasoned performer looking to expand your movement vocabulary, Cocojiu offers classes across all skill levels. Our beginner classes build confidence through fundamentals, while our advanced sessions challenge even the most experienced dancers to reach new heights of expression.

Dress for freedom, not fashion shows. We recommend breathable, comfortable attire that allows full range of motion—think cotton tees, dance pants, leggings, or shorts. Footwear varies by style: clean sneakers for hip-hop, bare feet for contemporary, jazz shoes for jazz-funk. Avoid excessive jewelry that might catch during movement. Remember, your comfort creates confidence, and confidence creates beautiful dance.

The most intimate dance journey happens one-on-one. We offer tailored private sessions where your goals become our roadmap. Whether preparing for a special performance, accelerating your technical development, or working through specific challenges, our instructors craft bespoke learning experiences. Private lessons can be scheduled flexible hours, including weekends. Contact our studio manager for personalized pricing and availability.

Dance development follows the rhythm of consistency rather than intensity. Most students who attend 2-3 classes weekly notice tangible progress within a month. However, even dancing once weekly creates noticeable transformation over time. The body remembers what the mind practices. Between sessions, we encourage "micro-practices"—five minutes daily of reviewing movements learned in class. This continuous connection to movement accelerates growth far more effectively than cramming multiple classes sporadically.

At Cocojiu, we believe performance is where practice meets passion. We host seasonal showcases where every student—regardless of level—can share their evolution. Our advanced students join the Cocojiu Company, performing at local festivals, charity events, and competitions. Additionally, our semi-annual "Movement Exhibition" transforms unconventional spaces into stages, bringing dance into community contexts. These aren't just performances; they're celebrations of your courage to create in front of others.

Life happens, and we dance with its unpredictability. Classes canceled with 24+ hours notice qualify for a make-up session within the same month. For subscription members, we offer two "flex passes" per month, allowing you to reschedule without advance notice. These make-ups can be used for any class of equivalent or lower level. If you're dealing with an extended absence due to injury or major life events, connect with our community director for personalized solutions—we value your dance journey beyond rigid policies.

Young bodies learn to speak the language of movement with incredible fluency. Our "Little Movers" program welcomes children ages 4-6 for playful rhythm exploration. Ages 7-12 join our "Youth Foundations" curriculum, building technical skills through age-appropriate challenges. Teenagers (13-17) may join specialized teen classes or, depending on maturity and skill level, integrate into appropriate adult classes with instructor approval. All youth instructors are background-checked and specially trained in developmental dance pedagogy.

Where Movement Becomes Poetry

The CocoJiu Dance Journey

Born from a whispered dream in a corner studio, CocoJiu began as a sanctuary for those who believed dance was more than movement—it was a language the soul speaks when words fail. We opened our doors when contemporary dance was still finding its footing in the cultural landscape, determined to create not just a school, but a canvas where bodies could paint stories through motion.

Our humble beginnings—a single room with weathered mirrors and borrowed speakers—now stand transformed into a flourishing garden of artistic expression. With each passing season, CocoJiu has evolved, embracing new techniques while honoring the timeless essence of dance. Today, our studios echo with the passionate footfalls of dancers from all walks of life, each adding their unique rhythm to our collective heartbeat.

Our Heritage

From intimate workshops to grand performances that have left audiences breathless, our journey has been one of constant reinvention. The CocoJiu name has become synonymous with innovation that respects tradition—a delicate balance we nurture with every class we teach.

Discover Our Classes
Dancers in motion at CocoJiu dance studio

Our Philosophy

Dancing Beyond Boundaries

At CocoJiu, we believe that dance is the universal alphabet that transcends cultural borders and speaks directly to the human experience. Our mission extends beyond teaching steps—we cultivate artists who use movement as their medium of expression and self-discovery.

We've built our school on the foundation that everyone deserves access to the transformative power of dance. Our inclusive approach welcomes beginners taking their first tentative steps alongside seasoned performers refining their craft. What unites our diverse community is a shared passion for authentic expression through movement.

Our Promise

Every instructor at CocoJiu brings not just technical expertise but a profound understanding that teaching dance is about nurturing the whole person. We promise an environment where technical excellence meets emotional exploration, where discipline serves creativity, and where each dancer's unique journey is honored.

Our Teaching Approach
Dance instructor teaching at CocoJiu dance school

What Sets Us Apart

Unlike conventional dance studios that prioritize uniformity, CocoJiu celebrates the raw, unfiltered authenticity each dancer brings to the floor. Our curriculum weaves together contemporary techniques with influences from ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and indigenous dance forms from across the globe, creating a rich tapestry of movement possibilities.

We've pioneered signature methodologies that honor technical precision while nurturing spontaneous expression—a dynamic tension that produces dancers who are both disciplined and daringly creative. Our seasonal showcases have become legendary for their innovative choreography and emotional depth, consistently pushing the boundaries of what modern dance can communicate.