Business Details
47 Years
experience
Award-Winning Dance Studio in Phoenix, AZ
At Royal Dance Works, we are driven by an unwavering passion for dance and a commitment to inspiring dancers of all ages and skill levels. For over four decades, we have served as a leader in the dance industry, offering innovative programs designed to nurture artistic growth while instilling lifelong values such as teamwork, integrity, and respect. Our studio fosters a challenging yet supportive community where students thrive, gain confidence, and develop into exceptional young adults, all through the transformative power of dance. With a nationally renowned faculty and a track record of producing award-winning performers, we provide cutting-edge instruction across diverse styles, from ballet to hip hop.Our students have graced stages at prestigious venues like Radio City Music Hall and pursued professional careers globally, evidence of our dedication to excellence. Adults seeking fitness or rediscovery of their dance roots find inclusive, adaptable classes tailored to their needs. With state-of-the-art facilities featuring injury-preventive flooring and a welcoming environment, we ensure every dancer feels at home while achieving their highest potential.
Services
Jazz Dance
Ballet Instruction
Hip Hop Classes
Competitive Dance Teams
Adult Dance Fitness
Summer Dance Camps
Contemporary Dance
Musical Theater
Tap Dance
Performance Companies
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We have 40+ years of experience developing nationally acclaimed dancers.
- Our nationally renowned instructors bring diverse expertise and real-world knowledge.
- We emphasize character development alongside technical skill mastery.
- Our students gain confidence and leadership skills transferable beyond dance.
- We offer a supportive community that treats every dancer as family.
What people say
Nurturing environment
Expert instructors
Confidence and excellence
Second home
Passion for dance
Services
Ballet Instruction
Our ballet program develops technical precision and artistic expression through structured curricula for ages 3+. Certified instructors use methods proven to build strong foundations while preparing dancers for professional opportunities. Students gain discipline and grace transferable to all life areas through performance opportunities and master classes with visiting professionals. The program emphasizes proper alignment to prevent injuries while fostering artistic creativity.
Competitive Dance Teams
Elite dancers train extensively in multiple styles, competing nationally while developing teamwork and resilience. Groups are placed by ability rather than age, allowing rapid skill progression while maintaining age-appropriate choreography. Teams regularly earn top awards at competitions in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and New York. The program includes mentoring from industry professionals and performance opportunities at prestigious venues.
Hip Hop Classes
Contemporary hip hop instruction covers breaking, popping, and commercial styles with industry-experienced teachers. Classes develop musicality, coordination, and self-expression for ages 5+. Students learn choreography featured in music videos, commercials, and national tours. The program includes improv sessions to build creativity and confidence, with performance opportunities at community events and studio showcases.
Adult Dance Fitness
Recreational classes combine dance techniques with fitness training for adults of all experience levels. Options include ballet barre, jazz funk, and hip hop cardio formats that improve strength and flexibility. Sessions accommodate busy schedules with early morning, lunchtime, and evening time slots. Participants enjoy the social benefits of group dance while achieving physical fitness goals in a non-judgmental environment.
Summer Dance Camps
Week-long summer camps provide immersive training in multiple dance styles with master instructors. Campers create original choreography, participate in group challenges, and perform at a final showcase. Themed programs cater to different age groups, combining technical skill-building with creative exploration. Daily sessions run from 9am-3pm with optional extended care, creating maximum summer dance development opportunities.
People
Carole Royal
Director
Carole Royal, founder with nearly four decades of teaching experience, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education (Performing Arts). She opened Royal Dance Works in 1979 after professional dance and ice skating careers touring internationally. She has trained national championship winners and directed international exchange programs to Europe and Australia.
Lupe Espinoza
Assistant Director
Lupe Espinoza began dancing under Carole Royal 44 years ago at Dysart High School, becoming Royal Dance Works' first employee when the studio opened in 1979. She specializes in jazz instruction and oversees costume production and performance logistics for over 40 years, maintaining strict technical standards while nurturing student growth.
Susan Allen
Performance Company Coordinator
Susan Allen, a Royal Dance Works alumnus, teaches jazz and musical theater after winning national competition awards. She holds an Early Childhood Education degree with Fine Arts emphasis and directs younger performance groups, leveraging 18 years of professional experience gained through scholarships at Tremaine Studios in Los Angeles and international tours.
Melissa Baum
Performance Company Liaison
Melissa Baum, with a BA in Human Communication from ASU, has taught dance for 26 years after 41 years dancing at Royal Dance Works. She received regional awards, Dance Scholarships to The Edge Performing Arts Center, and directed international exchanges to Australia, London, and Paris as part of the studio's global outreach initiatives.
Chris Brady-Wakimoto
Contemporary Dance Instructor
Chris Brady-Wakimoto teaches contemporary and jazz while co-directing performance companies. With 30+ years teaching experience, he has choreographed at local high schools, trained with LA Dance Magic, and performed internationally. He brings global teaching experience from London, Paris, and Australia exchanges to Royal Dance Works' innovative curriculum.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We provide instruction in jazz, ballet, hip hop, contemporary, tap, musical theater, and more, taught by industry professionals.
Are there competitive opportunities for advanced dancers?
Yes, our performance companies and competitive teams have earned national championships and perform at top venues nationwide.
Do you offer adult dance classes?
Yes, we have adult ballet, jazz, and hip hop classes designed for all experience levels, focusing on fitness and fun.
How do I register for classes?
Registration opens July 7 online, with in-person options available at our Phoenix studio location during designated hours.
What makes Royal Dance Works unique?
Our combination of award-winning instructors, character development focus, and inclusive community creates unparalleled growth opportunities for dancers.
Do you have summer programs available?
We offer summer dance camps and intensive training programs for all skill levels during June and July annually.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Jolie Molino
Feb 24, 2021
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My son has a previous background in dance from another studio. We made a move to Royal because we were not seeing the growth in his dance that he wanted. Royal has truly helped my son become a better dancer, and his growth in less than a year has been tremendous. Their competition team is a true competitive team and they take it very seriously, teaching these kids hard work, responsibility,excellence, great work ethic and teamwork.
Violet
May 06, 2020
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Royal Dance Works has been such a great environment to learn and grow. The teachers are amazing and I have made good friends. Like a second home
Pittbull Thompson
Dec 21, 2019
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My daughters love it ..staff is great.. Prices are reasonable.... But if you're Child is serious about it like mine and does competition can get quite expensive Between costumes and all the other requirements for classes, shows and competition's ... And the higher they climb in the class the more time money and commitment it will be for you and your child ...
Missy Myers
Sep 16, 2019
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This is a dance studio you can be proud to send your children to. I have been a part of the Royal family for 38 years! Our teachers are dedicated to the development of your dancers. 💗
