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Thursday, Mar 28, 2024

Dance Hall For the Stars Opens Doors

Always dreamed of being a dancing queen or king, but think you’re resigned to stay in the audience on account of your two left feet? Julz Tocker, co-founder and owner of dance and fitness studio JustDance Los Angeles, has other ideas. “We opened JustDance to teach everyone how to dance,” Tocker said. “We take people who don’t know how and make them look amazing.” Making expert waltzers out of wallflowers is Tocker’s specialty. The “Dancing With the Stars” alum has worked with some of Hollywood’s brightest talent, including Goldie Hawn, who was on hand for the studio’s grand opening in mid-October. JustDance clients can expect to find their rhythm through the same techniques that Tocker uses with mega-stars – on the same dance floor, to boot. Prior to opening to the public, the studio was the primary rehearsal space for actual “Dancing With the Stars” contestants and trainers as well as Tocker’s private celebrity clients. “People can be quite intimidated when they come to the studio, but you don’t have to be a professional,” Tocker said. You don’t have to be a spring chicken, either – JustDance lessons are for all ages, from “three to 110,” Tocker added. Case in point: An 84-year-old client recently starred in a special showcase event in Downtown L.A., a perk of Dance L.A.’s “Dancing With the Stars” experience packages. The studio also offers private and group lessons with an emphasis on “partner” dances, such as ballroom and Latin styles, as well as hybrid dance and cardio classes. “The idea is to show the benefits of dance through fitness,” Tocker explained. “It’s a whole lifestyle.” Tocker’s own performance career qualifies him to dole out advice. The 28-year-old has danced his way around the globe as a cast member of shows like Broadway’s version of “Dirty Dancing,” picking up countless nutrition and fitness tips along the way. He is expanding JustDance’s offerings in ways that take advantage of this knowledge, such as through a six-week course launching in January that will include thrice-weekly classes on mindfulness, healthy eating and exercise – including dance, of course. “It’s what I’ve done my whole life,” Tocker said. “Dance is so beneficial for your mind, body and soul.” Tocker has a plan for passing that wisdom on to the next generation. Starting next year, JustDance will begin offering after-school dance classes at Van Nuys Elementary School. He hopes to expand the programs to other area schools as well, and sees them as an opportunity for kids to engage with one another beyond social media. “I’m very passionate about bringing dance into schools,” he said. “Learning how to dance with each other really teaches you respect.” – Helen Floersh

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