Sometimes when I talk to people, they think that the Academy Of Ballroom Dance is not open anymore because you do not see it while driving by.The good news is that this little dance studio is open! I have been participating in dance activities with Jim and Jenell for over 3 years. Jenell has a ladies’ group every Thursday. It is a fun place to learn choreography and perform. Women there are friendly and caring. It’s a special dessert on a plate of life to be a part of the dance shows that the studio has every year. I feel respected and heard when I take dance lessons with Jim.

We love Academy of Ballroom Dance. Both my daughter and I are students of Jim Maranto and we both have come a long way. It is amazing to work with such a high-level dance professional that makes ballroom accessible and fun for all levels. We wouldnt go anywhere else!!

After every lesson I have with Jim I am actually a better dancer,it’s amazing.Every lesson improves my dancing so significantly even I can tell.

I first discovered Jim and Jenell through Dance Vision videos and always enjoyed learning straight from the authors of the American Smooth syllabus. When I learned they had their own studio, and that Jim was doing pro/am competitions, I did not hesitate to sign up for lessons. I have now been a student at the Academy of Ballroom Dance for 13 years. No other teachers have come close to the level of knowledge and demonstrated skill of Jim and Jenell Maranto. It’s clear after 5 minutes of a lesson why they became champions; they are professional, artistic, and have a true understanding of people and the art of ballroom. If you love to learn, and are interested in any style of ballroom dancing, there is no better place for you to take lessons than here.

It doesn’t matter what your skill level is. If you want to learn how to ballroom dance or to get better at Ballroom dance, The Academy of Ballroom dance is the place to go. You won’t find two better instructors than Jim and Jenell Maranto.I say this because in 1993 and in 1994 they were the American National Champions, and they did this as an independent studio not affiliated with either of the better known franchise studio chains. They can break down the moves so they are simple for beginners or more advanced for those who are ready for advanced moves. They offer group or private lessons which can accommodate anyone’s budget. Either way you are going to have fun dancing.

Whether you are taking your first lesson or have been dancing many years you come away from each lesson with Jim and Jenell with a deeper understanding of the art and skill of ballroom dance. I discovered Jim and Jenell while at the Emerald Ball in 2008. I noticed that at all levels and styles their students were always winning or in the top 3. It was quite a surprise from me to learn that their studio was a very short distance from my home. I started taking lessons with Jim and Jenell in 2008 and am still dancing with them 12 years later. There is no better place to be no matter what your level is. Their ability to break down the technique and their knowledge of body alignment and body mechanics is not matched anywhere else I have experienced. I highly recommend you take a lesson and find out for yourself.

Fun date night idea. Staff is very friendly and welcoming. Worth the trip

You can’t do any better than lessons with Jim and Jenell Maranto! Their history of success and national presence is amazing and we are fortunate to have them here in Phoenix! With every lesson, I walk away with multiple key pearls which enhance my technique and broaden my skill. Dancing is fun to begin with, but nothing tops the sense of accomplishment and joy that comes with consistent improvement. The added bonus is the laughter and fun of working with Jim and Jenell, the multiple opportunities for practice and improvement beyond private lessons, and ultimately the comradery and supportive environment generated by all who frequent the studio. Truly a gift to have the opportunity to learn to dance from two of the best!

I have been taking ballroom dance lessons in this studio with Cecilia Mendoza. She is an amazing instructor. Her knowledge extends to all the ballroom dances, and is able to communicate clearly. Whether you want to learn how to step on the social dance floor, learn to dance for an occasion, or are looking for more technical knowledge, she can assist.I started with her five yrs ago. Since then I have learned 20 dances[ focusing on four specifically, learning the rest generally to let me participate in social dance]. I have also performed three student teacher showcases with her, something I thought I would never or could never do, but she helped me through it. For those looking to improve their social dance or those willing to put in the time to improve their technical skills, she can help with all of it.

I love Phoenix

Jim and Jenell Maranto are Phenomenal Dance Instructors! They were extremely welcoming and very encouraging to my 9 & 11 year old daughters to join in the Group Classes, Social Dances and Personal Lessons and Showcases!! The girls have been ballroom dancing for almost 5 years; it is so refreshing to finally have found a safe & friendly place for them to continue their ballroom dance journey. Weve learned the hard way that it can be tricky in a mainly adult based hobby. However, With an exciting smile Jim challenges them just the right amount to keep them focused & not frustrated. They are not the fake friendly you tend to get at other big name franchises that only want your money. Each time we walk in, it makes going there enjoyable & worth it. Yes!! Definitely recommend going if you want exceptional dance attention!💃🕺

This is a great place to study ballroom dance in a fun and supportive environment. Jim and Jenell are excellent teachers with the expertise and patience to help you build solid dance fundamentals and reach your goals.

If you want to learn how to dance, this place is amazing. Both Jim and Jenelle of years of experience and you will see and feel results immediately. You cant go wrong with the Academy of Ballroom Dance!

Great Latin Class!We attended the Wednesday night Latin Class andthe instructors are very knowledgeable, helpfulwith questions and technique.and made it fun.The class was very well attended with a good numberof couples.

Great place to learn to dance!!

The Academy of Ballroom Dance has been my, de facto, second home for over 20 years. For many years Ive been taking private lessons with Jim Maranto and have done many competitions and showcases with him as my partner.Jims attention to detail regarding technique, choreography and styling is exceptional. The level of his expertise is unsurpassed and his ability to explain technique is unparalleled.Jim and Jenell are caring and dedicated professionals who encourage their students to be the best that they can be whether one is a competitive dancer or just wants to social dance.The Academy of Ballroom Dance great and welcoming dance studio for all who wish to dance!

5*Incredable teachers both Jenell and Jim. Other teachers in the past but these two are special. They make dancing FUN and are terrific for every level-beginner to pro-whether American or International style. Group and resonable cost private lessons are available.

The instruction in group classes given by Jenell and Jim are fantastic. Jenell has the ability to actually teach technique in group classes, which in my experience is unique. My only reservation and the reason for only four stars is that the studio itself is WAY too small. Jim and Jenell teach American Smooth and International Standard, and all of these dances travel LOD. It is impractical to dance much in this studio without serious corrections for the limits of the floor size, especially when there are a number of people in the group classes.