Our Philosophy
The Pretenders Studio is a comprehensive after-school dance program in West Los Angeles, offering a diverse range of dance classes for children from preschool to high school. Catering to varying skill levels and personal goals, the program provides a nurturing, inclusive, and safe environment for all dancers. Students can choose their involvement level, from recreational classes once or twice a week to a more intensive regimen of 10-14 classes weekly.
- Diverse Class Offerings Include: Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Pointe, Modern, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Jazz Funk, Yoga, Acro/Tumbling, Musical Theater, and Acting at various levels.
- Customizable Curriculum: Classes are selected after one on one meetings with the owner to tailor and meet individual needs and goals with no formal testing for admission.
- Continuous Support and Growth: Studio teachers participate in ongoing evaluation of each student's needs, progress pace and make adjustments to the curriculum to ensure appropriate challenges and support are provided.
- Community and Connection: Our community emphasizes belonging and teamwork within and a strong connection to the local community around us through dance and philanthropy.
- Encouraged Participation: We recommend a minimum of 2-3 classes per week for optimal benefit and growth in the dance community.
Community Building
At The Pretenders Studio we believe in bringing people together. Our studio is like a big family where students, their families, and teachers work as a team and share common values. We do more than just dance—we also actively help out in our community and join in local events. This helps our students learn about working with others and caring about their community.
Confident Kids
We help kids at The Pretenders Studio become more confident. Our classes are a safe place for them to try new things and show their creativity. We always encourage and cheer them on, so they feel good about what they can do. This helps them not just in dancing, but in other parts of their life too.
Inclusive Environment
The Pretenders Studio is a place where everyone is welcome. It doesn’t matter what you look like or how well you dance—we want everyone to feel part of our dance family. Our classes are made for everyone to have fun and feel included. We celebrate what makes each student unique.
Class Schedule
Explore our diverse class schedule at The Pretenders Studio! Find the ideal class for any age and skill level, from Jazz to Ballet and Hip Hop. Click here to view our offerings and begin your dance journey in our supportive and creative community
Testimonials
The Pretenders Studio is more than a dance studio, it’s a community; a place you feel welcome and loved. The Studio allows for great development in dance technique and a safe space to try new things and be yourself. Growing up at the studio was one of the most beneficial things in my life. You’re taught to be yourself, strive to your greatest potential, and be open to the success and failure you experience through life. The Pretenders Studio encapsulates authentic dance education in a warm welcoming environment. The greatest staff makes up the heart of the program. Each teacher is there to help you feel your best and support you through your learning. There is no better dance community than this one.
Bella S., age 15
I've been at the studio for around 7 years, and never once have I had a bad day. The studio has not only been a safe place, but probably one of my favorite places and atmosphere's in the world. The studio is the way it is because Lisa truly cares about us and knows how hard things can be. She's always there for us. When I joined the studio, I really needed a place to feel safe. The studio was exactly that and more. I have formed relationships at the studio, not only with my now best friends, but with my teachers. At Pretenders, I've never felt uncomfortable to be myself. I know that my ideas will always be heard and my words will always be valued. The teachers are of course there to help us become better dancers, but they have taught me and helped me through so much more than just dance. The studio changed my life for the better and I am forever grateful for this environment being a part of my life.