Experience the Joy of Dance at The Pretenders Studio Open House on August 24!
Discover your passion for dance at The Pretenders Studio's exclusive Open House event! Whether you're taking your first step or looking to refine your moves, we invite you to join our welcoming community for a day of fun, learning, and dance.
Join Us for a Day of Free Dance Classes!
Reserve Your Spot
Space is limited
Thanks for reserving your spot! Please check your email for further instructions.
Learn More About Us
Dive Into The Pretenders Studio
Come hang out at The Pretenders Studio, a wonderful place to hone your dance skills and build community. Experience our warn and welcoming environment for yourself and be a part of something special. We believe in the dancer that lives inside of you--let's discover the potential together!
Embracing Growth And Teamwork: Our Dance Community
Wondering how we're different from other dance places? We're like an awesome layer cake! The most important thing for us is getting better, not just being perfect. We cheer for every small win and love working together. Let's help each other and keep getting better every day. Want to be part of a group where growing is the goal?
Views Of The Studio
"The first time I arrived, I noticed a palpable difference in the air…instead of encouraging competition and personal success, there was community and cooperation. From making a music video fundraising for wildfire relief, to creating instructional dance videos for hospitalized children during COVID-19, I grew beyond the focused world of life-on-pointe, to one of meaningful contribution to society.” CeCe - recent graduate
“I love dancing and Miss Lisa. I have fun at Pretenders.” — liv, r. age 6
"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, age 15
Why Choose The Pretenders Studio?
The Pretenders Studio is more than just a dance school; it's a place where young dancers are nurtured to grow confidently in their skills and as individuals. With a focus on positive body image and community support rather than competition, we provide a safe space for every dancer to explore and express themselves.
Take advantage of special offers available only to Open House attendees. Sign up on the day and receive discounts on your first month of classes.
Mia F., age 16
At Pretender’s I have found my sisters and role models, who I always strived to be, until I became the big sister. Now I get the opportunity to be that figure for the group that will take my place, it's almost like a Pretender’s life cycle. I think that’s what makes this place so beautiful and magical. To call Pretender’s just a dance studio, is an extreme undercut. This place gave me somewhere to be silly, myself, and make mistakes without fear of the outside world. Pretender’s served as a safe place while I grew as a young girl.
Laurie M., proud studio mom
My daughter's experience with Pretenders really began as a toddler watching her older sister dance! She has enjoyed dancing with the studio for over 6 years now. I've watched her evolve into not only a beautiful and expressive dancer but also a much more confident young woman. I attribute this all to the very safe and creative environment Lisa provides for these young dancers –wonderful group to be a part of!
Dedicated Teachers
Our teachers offer classes in Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Pointe, Modern, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Yoga, Acro/Tumbling, Musical Theater and Acting at beginning, intermediate and advanced levels. Read more about our teachers here.
Getting to Know The Pretenders Studio
The Pretenders Studio is dance studio in Santa Monica, Ca that specializes in dance training for local youth on the Westside of Los Angeles.
We are a dance studio offering a wide variety of dance classes and acting for kids and teens at all levels. We have classes for the most novice dancers who are curious and eager to learn something new and also for those who come to us seeking out a new or different dance experience from the one they had prior to becoming a “Pretender.” No matter your level, we have a spot for you! We offer dance classes weekly in Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Pointe, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Modern, Musical Theater, Acrobatics and Tumbling, Acting and Yoga. Dancers 2.5 yrs of age through high school are welcome to join us.
We work with each dancer and their family to curate a dance schedule that fits each family’s individual needs. All of our performances have a charity component to them so you can be sure you are “Dancing For A Difference” while you are with us!
The Location
The Pretenders Studio is located at 1438 9th Street, Unit B in Santa Monica Ca. The entrance to our studio is in the rear of the building with access from the alley only. Please enter the alley from Broadway between Sweet Fin Poke and Jersey Mikes to drop off dancers.
Please use the Santa Monica Blvd entrance to the alley for pick up. The alley runs between Lincoln and 9th street. If you need help finding us please don’t hesitate to call the office.
What’s in Store for You?
Don’t Miss Out Our Open House!
Starts August 24!
Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today and take the first step towards discovering your potential with The Pretenders Studio.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, we have something for everyone.
Thanks for reserving your spot! Please check your email for further instructions.
"The Pretenders is my daughters happy place! She has grown in dance and as a young woman. This is a positive place that becomes a family." - Molly L.