16+ years of my life was dedicated here. I started dancing when I was… how old? gosh I dont even remember! Ballet was definitely a large part of my life. Even now, three years from retiring, I want to go back. Ballet gave me life, and it gave me something to look back upon, to say–«I accomplished this». Its fantastic exericse even if it looks so simple– it really isn’t. Karen is an awesome teacher. She’s not any of those stereotypical ballet teachers– strict and all. She makes dancing fun and enjoyable for everyone of all ages. For the younger classes, older dancers demonstrate so the little ones can follow along. Older classes get to pull out the middle barre to see yourself better(in the mirror). Karen isn’t too strict either, so she’s not going to be one of those instructors you evny. In the summertime, Karen teaches a Variations class, where you can learn dances from Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, etc. In the wintertime, the Sugar Plum Fairy comes out to dance for the young ones, and signs their shoe! Karen also has several adult classes in the morning! Many dancers have tried various ballet schools around the area, and they find Karen’s San Carlos School of Ballet to be one of the most friendly ballet schools in the Bay. Not to mention, Brooklyn Ballet School comes to recruit students every year for a summer ballet program. Great experience!