What Our Parents are Saying
"We absolutely love the teachers here — they are professional, patient, and incredibly caring. On her very first day, my daughter is very shy and burst into tears, but her teacher gently held her hand, comforted her, and stayed by her side the entire class." Thanks to that kindness, she finished the lesson with a smile. Now, ballet day has become the highlight of her week — she looks forward to it more than anything!
★★★★★
Faye C.
"Miss Noriko, the owner is exceptional - although the studio has a lot of students you can tell she pays attention and cares for each of them individually." My daughter has been a student here for almost 7 years. She absolutely love all the teachers and looks forward to the classes. Miss Noriko, the owner is exceptional - although the studio has a lot of students you can tell she pays attention and cares for each of them individually. Also, the recitals they throw every year are amazing! Extremely professional and well organized. I defined recommend Ballet Kukan to any aspiring ballerinas - young and old.
★★★★★
Karina A.
"I come from a professional ballet background and I am very happy with the balance of technique and creative movement and fun" My daughter has been attending ballet classes for the past 2 years, the Mommy & Me class and the preschool age class. I come from a professional ballet background and I am very happy with the balance of technique and creative movement and fun in the classes. Ms. Noriko finds a happy medium of teaching the discipline required for ballet while maintaining a developmentally appropriate approach for preschoolers.
★★★★★
Rebecca C.
"I highly recommend this school if you want your child to learn authentic ballet techniques. It’s also one of the few schools in California that is RAD certified, which speaks volumes about the quality of its training." My daughter loves Ballet Kukan Academy! This is truly the school I’ve been looking for — one that teaches strong discipline while catering to the individual needs of each student. The instruction feels personalized, yet students learn to work together as a team. I hope she continues here all the way through until she leaves for college out of state. I highly recommend this school if you want your child to learn authentic ballet techniques. It’s also one of the few schools in California that is RAD certified, which speaks volumes about the quality of its training.
★★★★★
Kaye J.
"We couldn’t be happier with Ballet Kukan and are so grateful for the positive influence it’s had on our daughter." My daughter has been attending Ballet Kukan for four years going on 5, and the experience has been absolutely wonderful. The progress she’s made over the years has been remarkable , her technique, confidence, and love for dance have all flourished. The environment is warm, encouraging, and truly supportive of every student’s growth. The teachers are highly experienced and dedicated, providing excellent instruction while keeping classes enjoyable and inspiring. It’s clear they genuinely care about each dancer’s development. We couldn’t be happier with Ballet Kukan and are so grateful for the positive influence it’s had on our daughter. Highly recommended!
★★★★★
Amah B.
"The teachers are not only talented and professional but also incredibly patient and caring. They truly nurture each student’s love for dance while helping them build confidence, discipline, and grace. " My daughter has been attending Ballet Kukan Academy for the past five years, and it has been such a wonderful experience! The teachers are not only talented and professional but also incredibly patient and caring. They truly nurture each student’s love for dance while helping them build confidence, discipline, and grace. Emma looks forward to every class — she’s grown so much as a dancer and performer thanks to the supportive and positive environment here. The recitals are always beautifully organized and showcase how much hard work and passion the students and instructors put in. We’re so grateful to have found Ballet Kukan. I highly recommend it to any parent looking for a ballet school that focuses on both excellent technique and the joy of dancing.
★★★★★
Fatima S.
"We love Ballet Kukán and we’ve only taken one class! The option to try before committing was so important to us, and we signed up immediately after" — our daughter was absolutely beaming with excitement to “be a ballerina.” Elena at the front desk was incredibly helpful and made registration a breeze. Romina’s class was so fun and engaging; at 4 years old, keeping a little one’s attention for a full 50 minutes is no small feat, but she was completely locked in the entire time. We can’t wait to watch her blossom here!
★★★★★
Elisa Y.
"Recitals are first rate productions that really showcase the talent/potential of the performers in an elaborate, professional setting." My daughter has been coming here for 3 years now and she is still going strong and loving her ballet classes. Although she has had various instructors over the years, they all work toward what is easily the school’s highlight: the annual (or bi-annual) dance recitals. My daughter has been in two of them so far, and the general consensus between other parents and me is that these recitals are first rate productions that really showcase the talent/potential of the performers in an elaborate, professional setting. While the annual RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) evaluations may add a degree of pressure at times, they also lend credibility to the overall name of the school. So long as my daughter remains happy here, we’ll keep bringing her back!
★★★★★
Harry C.
"My daughter has been a student at Ballet Kukan for the past 9 years. I have seen her abilities grow so much in that time. She loves the annual recital performances and joined the Ballet Kukan Theatrical Company competition team last year." There are a lot of kids in her age group who have been dancing at Ballet Kukan for years, but still new kids occasionally join and are welcomed into the community. I really value the skills and confidence she has gained under Ms. Noriko's instruction. She has had different teachers over the years, but two of her current teachers (besides Ms. Noriko) are Ms. Angie and Mr. Julian; she has good things to say about them as well. Ms. Elena who handles all the administration at the front desk really cares about the kids too.
★★★★★
Jennifer V.
"My middle daughter really found her passion in dance here. The recital productions are always so much fun for the kids too." My 3 girls have had a wonderful experience at Ballet Kukan, and between them we’ve done everything from parent and me classes to vocational level ballet, contemporary, hip hop and BKTC, Ballet Kukan’s competitive group. It’s been a great place for them to be active, learn discipline and have fun! My middle daughter really found her passion in dance here. The recital productions are always so much fun for the kids too.
★★★★★
Joy B.
"My daughter joined Ballet Kukan since she was 4 years old. This is her third year here and she enjoys every moment especially the annual recital. The teachers and staff are very kind and professional."
★★★★★
Esther T.
"My daughter had soo much fun and was already asking to go back for more. I definitely recommend Ballet Kukan Academy." I took my 2 1/2 year old daughter, k pop trial and Noriko instructed us. Being that it was my daughter's first time, my daughter was very shy in the beginning but Noriko did an amazing job with interacting with my daughter that she was comfortable in no time. My daughter had soo much fun and was already asking to go back for more. I definitely recommend Ballet Kukan Academy.
★★★★★
Monica B.
"Ballet Kukan is a very fun, positive and wonderful dance environment! I have been a student there for quite a few years and also now assist with Kukan Emerge and I absolutely love it! Strongly recommend this studio for people who love to dance and make new friends!"
★★★★★
Lucia G.
"My daughter loves to attend her dance classes. The studio is nice and clean. Teachers are very attentive and caring. A great place for little ballerina enjoys herself."
★★★★★
Sophia W.
"My daughter started as a beginner at 5 years old in their graded RAD ballet program. Her development has been amazing" We are so happy to have found Ballet Kukan Academy. After trying a few different kids dance classes in the San Gabriel Valley, this studio ended up being the best fit for us. Everyone is welcoming and the studio is structured and professional. My daughter started as a beginner at 5 years old in their graded RAD ballet program. Her development has been amazing and she dances everywhere now. The instructors are patient, well trained, and know how to teach strong ballet technique while still making class fun. You can tell they follow a real curriculum, which was impressive to me and my husband. I appreciate how organized everything is especially in recitals. We looove the recitals and my daughter has so much fun!! They are really amazing productions. We also love that they offer many options beyond ballet, like jazz and tap, but we have not tried them yet. My daughter really wants to. Anyone looking for kids dance classes in the San Gabriel Valley area, especially a studio with real training and not just basically "day care", I would highly recommend Ballet Kukan Academy
★★★★★
Cat G.
"We love this ballet school. Ms. Noriko is so dedicated to all of her students and we can truly see all the hard work and effort she puts into making her school the best. Ms. Elena who runs the front office is amazing too." There are so many ballet schools out there, but it's the people who run it that matter. Thank you Ms. Noriko and Elena! You're the best!
★★★★★
Sandy J.
"Our daughter has been dancing at Ballet Kukan for 10 years. The instructor team led by Ms. Malaby are very friendly and encouraging while skilled and experienced." The front desk lady is very friendly and helpful. Our daughter loves this place and enjoys her dance here 3 times a week.
★★★★★
Wenzhen L.
We’ve been attending this ballet studio for the past 2 years and my daughter loves it! The teachers are very welcoming and knowledgeable. We are very happy with Ballet Kukan and would recommend it to any of our friends who are interested in learning ballet.
★★★★★
Tiffany C.
My daughter is In the beginning ballet / tap class with noriko and loving it! Noriko is so sweet with the students, very encouraging, and makes the class so fun and enjoyable for my 5 year old. Pricing is also very reasonable and location is great and clean. We love ballet kukan!
★★★★★
Lori A.
"Few things we love about the school is the annual recital (blown you away kind of wow) friendly environment (all the parents and faculties) and the passion I see in the kids!" We have been with this ballet school for over 5 years. It is a serious school about ballet and curriculum (RAD). Few things we love about the school is the annual recital (blown you away kind of wow) friendly environment (all the parents and faculties) and the passion I see in the kids! If your kids are serious about ballet, this would be the place to be!
★★★★★
Jean P.
"Ballet Kukan is a very friendly place , all the teachers are very patient and encouraging to my daughter. She especially enjoy the annual performance where she gets to dance on a big stage with beautiful costumes."
★★★★★
Stephanie C.
"My girls have been at this studio since 2015 and still loving it! This studio has wonderful teachers and staff and everyone are super friendly and knowledgeable. This is also the only studio that offers RAD program in the area."
★★★★★
Annie H.
"We've been coming to Ballet Kukan in Monrovia for a little over a year and it has been such a wonderful experience for my daughter. She started as a pretty shy beginner at age 6 in the ballet program and has grown so much in confidence and technique." The instructors are patient but very knowledgeable, and I really appreciate that they follow the Royal Academy of Dance curriculum so there is a clear structure and progression. I can see that they provide real training rather than just a casual dance class. We also tried their jazz and hip hop classes and loved how organized and age-appropriate everything is. The environment is fun, but you can still tell the students are actually learning proper technique. I also like that the studio is clean and welcoming, and they have clear communication about schedules and progression. The performances are amazing as well. We're very happy to have found a studio in San Gabriel Valley that balances discipline with encouragement.
★★★★★
Alice B.
My 4-year-old was a student here for approx. a year and she really enjoyed it. I worked in the performing arts for many years, so I know (a little too well) the the enormous level of passion, dedication, and patience it takes to run a program like this" and I have the utmost respect for Ms. Noriko, Ms. Elena, and the teachers (special shoutouts to Ms. Nicole and Ms. Angie, only because my daughter had them both for classes) for keeping it all together. My daughter's at the age where we want to expose her to other activities (such as sports, languages, and music - her tiny body and schedule can only take so much!)... but we'll definitely continue to keep Ballet Kukan in mind for the future. Miss you guys already!
★★★★★
Christine T.
"Ballet Kukan has been such a wonderful, warm, and welcoming place for my daughter, Maria. She has learned so much from her teachers and always looked forward to every class. It has truly been a wonderful experience for her, and we are so grateful. Kudos to all the staff!"
★★★★★
Melissa V.
"On my first day of class, I felt incredibly welcomed and engaged. I appreciate the attention I receive; Ms. Noriko is very patient and supportive. The environment is relaxed, and I never feel judged. " I've been searching for adult ballet classes in the area for a while, and I'm thrilled to have found Ballet Kukan Academy. After requesting information on their website, I received a helpful response within 12 hours. I decided to give it a try, and Ms. Noriko and Ms. Elena provided great advice on class attire, making me feel welcomed right away. On my first day of class, I felt incredibly welcomed and engaged. I appreciate the attention I receive; Ms. Noriko is very patient and supportive. The environment is relaxed, and I never feel judged. The small class size allows for personalized attention, and Ms. Noriko is always there to guide and encourage us. I can't wait for my next class and to be a part of the Kukan family!
★★★★★
Christy H.
"My daughter had about 2 years of ballet experience before Ballet Kukan. Since being enrolled this March, her skill level has dramatically improved. My daughter's poise, confidence are noticeable and she is understanding the importance of stage entrance and music cues." She's been in two seperate recitals, but was never taught this. Ms. Noriko is an excellent instructor. She is dedicated, passionate, and loves teaching ballet. She is committed to her students. At Ballet Kukan, there is discipline coupled with fun exercises. My daughter LOVES her ballet school and so do I. Highly recommend this school to anyone who is serious about ballet.
★★★★★
Rebecca H.
"my oldest attends 2x/week and is really learning some significant form and technique. I am amazed at the choreography she is able to do! The teachers have been great, especially the owner, Ms. Noriko" All 3 of my girls go to this studio, and they are currently in Mommy and me class, Pre-Primary (which is mostly ballet but a little tap) and Ballet Grade 2. All 3 love going! My oldest has been attending for about 2.5 years now. For my 2 younger ones, it is mostly a lot of fun, although they are definitely learning some ballet (they each attend once per week) but my oldest attends 2x/week and is really learning some significant form and technique. I am amazed at the choreography she is able to do! The teachers have been great, especially the owner, Ms. Noriko, who has taught all my girls at one time or another. Ms. Elena at the front desk has always been very helpful as well. It has been wonderful to see it all come together for my two older girls at the annual Fall recital in November. Definitely check out this studio if you are interested in dance classes for your child. In addition to ballet, they offer tap, jazz/contemporary, and hip hop.
★★★★★
Joy B.
"I have been attending this amazing ballet academy for the past 4-5 years and counting. I have acquired amazing technique, descipline, and a variety of dancing styles from some of the best and experienced teachers in the area." It provides a positive and comfortable atmosphere where students of all ages can learn, excercise, and have fun at the same time. Ballet Kukan Academy has become my second home to where I have experienced and witnessed many dancers sharing the same interests and love for ballet and dance.
★★★★★
Claire C.
"Wonderful ballet studio. Strong foundational skills. Excellent attention to technique and girls also have fun. Annual recital ensures all girls get to perform on stage regardless of level. Also offers jazz and hip hop." Free parking in lot with supermarket and restaurants so you can do other things while girls practice.
★★★★★
Diana C.
"This place has been the best thing to happen for my princess. She loves ballet and they run a respectful business."
★★★★★
Raymond A.