Jazz - Jazz is vibrant, expressive, and full of energy. Dancers explore movement that blends sharp, dynamic steps with fluid style, often set to exciting, popular music. Jazz training at SMPA develops flexibility, strength, and performance skills, encouraging students to shine with personality and confidence on stage. It’s one of the most fun and versatile styles for young dancers to grow in.
Acrobatics - Acrobatics combines the artistry of dance with the athleticism of tumbling. In a safe, structured environment, dancers learn flexibility, balance, strength, and control while blending those skills seamlessly with dance movement. Acrobatics builds courage and determination—skills that serve dancers both inside and outside the studio. At SMPA, we help every child progress at their own pace, celebrating each milestone along the way.
Hip Hop - Hip Hop is bold, exciting, and full of individuality. Rooted in street dance, this style allows dancers to build coordination, agility, and confidence while moving to age-appropriate music. At SMPA, hip hop is a chance for students to express themselves freely in a fun, supportive space. It’s one of the best ways to build confidence and creativity while being active and engaged.
Get to Know Our Classes
At South Mountain Performing Arts, every child’s dance journey begins with exploration, joy, and community. Our mission is to inspire confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of the arts in a nurturing environment. Whether your dancer is taking their very first steps into the studio or refining advanced technique, SMPA offers classes that meet each child where they are and help them grow—not only as dancers, but as individuals. We believe dance uplifts, unites, and inspires, and we are proud to shape the next generation of artists right here in Laveen and South Phoenix.
Combo Classes (Tap, Ballet & Acrobatics) - Our combo classes are specially designed for our youngest dancers (ages 2–6). Each class introduces children to tap, ballet, and acrobatics, giving them a well-rounded foundation and keeping them engaged by exploring different styles. This structure builds musicality, coordination, and focus while ensuring that dance remains playful and fun. Combo classes also help families and teachers discover where each child shines brightest as they begin their dance journey.
Ballet - Ballet is one of the essential foundations of dance and a core focus at SMPA. It develops strong technique, alignment, and discipline that support every other style of movement. Through classical training, dancers build coordination, musicality, and strength while learning the artistry that makes ballet timeless. At SMPA, we emphasize the importance of ballet for all dancers, ensuring that each student gains the skills and confidence that carry into jazz, tap, acrobatics, and beyond.
Pointe - Once a dancer has progressed in their training and reached the appropriate age and strength level, their ballet journey may advance en pointe. Dancing on pointe is a milestone many young dancers dream of, and at SMPA we approach it with great care, ensuring each dancer is physically ready and supported every step of the way. Pointe work builds artistry, discipline, and resilience, marking an exciting new chapter in a dancer’s growth.
Tap - Tap dance brings music to life through rhythm and sound. At SMPA, dancers learn timing, precision, and musical awareness as they make music with their feet. Tap builds focus, listening skills, and coordination—all in an engaging, upbeat atmosphere. Our students love the creativity and energy of tap, and parents love seeing their children grow in both discipline and self-expression.
Patience, Passion, Purpose!
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Dream it.
“Inspiring young people to be the best dancers they can be”
Since 2007, Tempe Dance West, now South Mountain Performing Arts has provided outstanding technical training in a positive and fun environment. Your kids have a great time, while our faculty focus on developing important life skills like positive self-image, dependability, responsibility, respect and team work. Our students learn technical dance skills that allow them to pursue a professional dance career or just to have a great time, learning essential life skills that lead to success in whatever they pursue.
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Build it.
We believe in nurturing the talent of each individual student as they explore movement and music. Our teaching philosophy is centered on instilling a passion for dance, while also building self-esteem and confidence in every child. The students’ well being is our number one priority; their capability is secondary.
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Grow it.
Our Core Values for Success:
-Building Confidence
-Develop an appreciation of the Arts
-Promoting a healthy lifestyle
-Teaching discipline through the arts
-Creating life long friendships outside of the digital world!