Phoenix Ballroom Academy

Phoenix Ballroom Academy is dedicated to making ballroom dance accessible and family-centred. Based in Chandler at 3029 N Alma School Rd suite 224, the studio specializes in developing strong youth programmes while welcoming dancers of all ages—from absolute beginners to advanced competitors. The academy claims to be the first dedicated kids' ballroom programme in the Phoenix Valley, offering instruction in Waltz, Cha Cha, Tango, Foxtrot, Jive, and Swing across three main age groups: Junior Classes (ages 8–12), Youth Classes (ages 12–18), and Adult Ballroom Private Lessons (18+). The studio also offers a Solo Star programme for dancers who prefer to perform without a partner.

Ross Pearce, owner and lead instructor, brings decades of performance and teaching experience to the academy. His credentials include being a USADance National Judge, a 2011 UCWDC World Champion in Couples Open Showcase, and a 2008 US National Professional 9-Dance Finalist. Pearce trained at Utah Valley State College and Brigham Young University and specializes in Latin, Rhythm, Smooth, Standard, Country, and Cabaret/Theater Arts. He is also a certified 200-hour yoga trainer and master massage practitioner. Other named instructors include Shawn, who in under 6 months prepared students to compete and win their first dance contest, and multiple reviewers cite exceptional teaching from Ross and other staff.

The studio operates with a structured, level-based curriculum. Junior classes progress through four levels: Level 1 (Let's Get Dancing), Level 2 (Stepping Up the Style), Level 3 (Ready for the Spotlight), and Level 4 (Dance Like a Pro). Classes emphasize fundamentals, musicality, coordination, and performance readiness rather than repetitive step work. The facility features modern flooring and professional sound systems. Youth and students are encouraged to develop confidence, discipline, and teamwork alongside technical skill. The academy explicitly states it works mostly with beginners, though advanced competitive training is available.

Reviews consistently highlight the welcoming environment and quality of instruction. Parents report that children have improved tremendously, gained confidence, made friendships, and felt comfortable learning from the first class. One parent noted her daughter's skill improved tremendously over a year of lessons and that she now loves being able to compete as a ballroom dancer. The studio serves Chandler and surrounding communities including Gilbert, Tempe, Mesa, and Guadalupe.

Your first class welcomes you into a warm, encouraging environment with experienced, patient instructors. Whether you're an absolute beginner or returning to dance, you'll work with clear instruction in a structured setting focused on building fundamentals and confidence. Classes are organised by age and skill level, so you'll train with peers at your stage.

Ross Pearce, owner and lead instructor, is a lifelong performer and educator with a 2011 UCWDC World Champion title, USADance National Judge credentials, and training from Utah Valley State College and Brigham Young University. He specializes in Latin, Rhythm, Smooth, Standard, Country, and Cabaret/Theater Arts. Shawn is also named as an instructor who has successfully prepared students for competition wins. Reviews consistently praise the teaching quality and personal attention from instructors.

Explicitly designed for beginners; the academy states it works mostly with beginners and offers Level 1 classes described as fun and beginner-friendly with no partner required.