Gift Certificate// Bought a gift certificate over the phone for my mom's 60th birthday. The person who answered the phone was very helpful, happy to help, and guided me in the right direction. Received the gift certificate in a very timely manner and I look forward to hearing about the fun dance lessons from my mom. read more

Arthur Murray dance studio runs like a car salesmanship. I understand being friendly to your customers but the instructors were so over-the-top that it felt completely fake and smarmy, from how they say hi to you to how they sell you a packet of $550 introductory dance lessons -- 4 45 min "lessons" that only cover the bare minimum where they refuse to correct your dance moves (big red flag if you want to learn dance) and they five high you every 5 minutes like you're a toddler or otherwise just retarded... Amongst the intro packet was the 2 group lessons coupled with 2 more subsequent "party" dance sessions where all the students dance w each other but the way it was being lead, it felt more like a cheerleading/glee club. Please actuallt teach us some moves! Im not here to be part of a cheering squad and to be everybody's bff! Josh, a dancer who doubles as their sales guy, was goading me into buying more group packets for an unbelievable amount of money after completing the bare minimum in the equally expensive introductory dance packet -- talking to you as though you affirmed to him that you wanna buy super expensive packets for when I never even implied that! Before then, when I asked about paying for individual lessons...well, I'm going to quote the last reviewer who said it best here when she expressed uncertainty : "he acted all offended and said, 'when someone doesn't want to buy it means that they didn't understand what I was explaining.'" Basically same thing here but also refusing to answer the question in my case. Finally, when I asked for references to other dance studios that dedicate more time to individualized dance lessons (like if you wanna focus on just tango as opposed to all of the ballroom dances), he went on about how "Well, Arthur Murray does it as well! You like our dance studio though, RIGHT, Tiffs?" Yeah I know, that's why I asked -- if you weren't trying so hard to sell yourself like I'm just another product, I wouldn't have asked. I found another class that is worth your buck and teaches you more in one lesson than 10 Arthur Murray lessons combined. In fact, my other peers were also there precisely because of their experience with Arthur Murray as well. And, due to the last reviewer actually affirming my previous experience, I think I'm on point. Do not buy Arthur Murray classes! They are a scam!! Worst dance studio I've ever been in, and I've gone through several myself! Edit: Yelp removed my last review from Arthur Murray, but I didn't break any review rules; I did not slander anyone personally, reinforce stereotypes, or threaten with violence. Part of me suspects that this removal was at the behest of Arthur Murray dance company so that they do not look bad in other people's eyes. Well, I'm back! And I'm not going to stop telling the truth about this company to let honest people decide for themselves if they want to go through the same horrible experience with this dance studio as I did! read more

Wow. I should have read Tiff W.'s review before deciding to sign up for the free introduction class. The whole thing is so rehearsed and extremely cheesy. Every interaction feels fake and over the board. Ridiculous high fives every five minutes. The ultimate goal is to close you on an expensive package of classes, and when I replied that I needed to give it some thought, I got an offended look with a "well when someone doesn't sign up it's because I didn't explain it right, what about our conversation did you not understand?" Oh my God, how do they manage to coerce anyone into signing up? I'll take my happy feet elsewhere. read more

Loved our instructor but even after committing a hefty some of money, they strongly pressure you to "sponsor the studio" after every lesson. It's very off putting. I think we would have continued if not for that :/ read more

Talked to someone named Josh who is Super rude, had an attitude, and unprofessional. Trying to find dance lessons for my fiancé and I's first dance at our wedding. Website is beyond misleading. No one answered my calls or emails for months. Josh tried to sell me a package for $558 and was not willing to work on a special package that is tailored to our needs when I explained we only have 3 weeks and don't need group lessons and time to attend 2 parties. Someone needs to retrain this guy on people skills if he's on the front lines of talking to your potential customers. I can assure you will lose a lot of business otherwise. Yikes! read more

Learning from these amazing and talented instructors has brought me great joy and I also see great improvement with their instruction. Both Stephanie and April inspire me with their talent and abilities and I aspire to be as graceful as they are. All instructors there are stupendous instructors read more

I'm so glad we chose Arthur Murray for my fiancé and my wedding dance. I had no experience dancing and felt completely comfortable and confident learning the ropes with the amazing Deja! We had no ideas in mind for what type of dance we wanted and Deja guided us and crafted something perfect. It was a nice surprise to be able to fill out a document that helped the team make sure they were fulfilling what we hoped to achieve or pain points we felt we had. We also loved going to the group classes and dance parties included in our package, it was a great way to learn new dances from a variety of professionals. We loved the atmosphere at the Walnut Creek location, the team is incredibly supportive and I always felt like I was in a safe, respectful, judgement-free, and fun zone. It was wonderful for my fiancé and I to pause amidst our busy lives to build such a special skill together. I can't imagine learning from anyone but Deja, she was incredibly patient, kind, and is a great listener and teacher. My dad and I are also taking a lesson for our father daughter dance, and I'm glad to have an excuse to go back! We'll always fondly remember the team in Walnut Creek and our wonderful experience there. read more

First, I want to say we had a great time learning the basic steps for Waltz, Foxtrot, Merengue and Swing. Our instructor Sabrina was kind, patient and encouraging. Everyone at the studio is very positive, although I did find the high-fives after every small accomplishment kind of weird. We took 2 months of lessons, and did come away with knowledge of some basic steps that we will continue to practice. I found that it was hard for us to devote more than 1 night a week to the studio, and that the group lessons and dance parties were something that we did not make use of, although they were included in the tuition which was $656 a month. Unfortunately, there is no option to purchase individual lessons to work on specific things, so we decided not to continue. read more

We were very disappointed with the service of Arthur Murray in Walnut Creek, CA. Our daughter was getting married and we wanted to learn some basics dance steps for her wedding. We attended a free 45 minute free lesson (which was actually about 20 minutes with a 10 minute talk) and we were assured that we would learn some basics with 4 - 45 minute private lessons, 2 group lessons and 2 group parties for $544.00. We were very excited and signed up. We had our first lesson with Mick who was bubbly and friendly and liked to talk but she did not spend 45 minutes teaching us, it was approximately 20 minutes of various dances, with 10-15 minutes of high 5's and talk for a total of 30-35 minutes. After our 4th lesson we still did not have any basics down. During our 4th lesson she brought out a binder and we felt like we were at a time share presentation. More focus was on trying to get us to sign up for a bigger commitment (which we were not interested in). When we though we had scheduled our group lesson, no one confirmed the day or time. We called twice and left messages and sent emails with no response or follow up. Before our private lessons we always received a text or email reminder. I think they knew we were not in for a long term commitment and ignored us. We did not return and feel that this was a big waste of our time and money. $544.00 was a lot of money for us to spend and not feel good about it. When we contacted the franchise owner (Daisey Lynam) and told her we were not happy and would like a partial refund, she said they would follow up and get back to us. She never did and I gave up after 2 more emails. Poor customer service. If you want dance lessons, I would not recommend Walnut Creek Arthur Murray studio and suggest you look for private lessons with an instructor who is not trying to sell you a package. read more

I decided it was past time to learn some Ball Room Dancing. Finding Arthur Murphy Dance Studio on line I scheduled my complimentary first lesson. The studio is in a strip mall with ample metered parking. I was greeted by the manager and given a form to fill out which is also your dance card. The lessons are given in a common large open wood floor dance area. The staff are friendly and each came over to introduce themselves. My instructor Deja was very good. She spent a good amount of time with me. I'm a beginner and she was very patient with me. Following the complimentary lesson the manager showed me their lesson plan and costs. I'm considering signing on for the beginning program. read more

We had a great experience here. Staff was very friendly and helpful in trying to understand our needs. Deanna was a superb instructor and taught us everything we needed to know for our dance. Highly professional instructors and fun, engaging lessons. read more

The staff and managers have really brought a new energy and family feeling. When teaching, they are very knowledgeable of the steps, always prepared and on time with their lessons. Take it from me that I've been with Arthur Murray Live for 15 years this October. Their groups and parties are always consistent and FUN! You will love it here! read more

Arthur Murray Dance Studio - Dance Schools Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Walter was an absolute gem. The studio was elegant and amazing. I had a complimentary lesson with Walter, and it was fabulous. I went in with the intent of signing up for a package if the experience was good. It was great! I saw another review decided to call sales tactics at the end "ghetto" and elevated herself as a very classy woman who demeaned her experience beyond distasteful and decided to diss. I find that classy people don't need to demean others or call them ghetto in an online review. I personally found the need to disparage sales tactics as very distasteful. Of course they are trying to make the sale. Complimentary lessons take up the time of paid lessons and are therefore expected in some way by the sales staff to make up for the loss revenue. This is basic opportunity cost in high school economics. I digress, I didn't find the offer for today only as "ghetto." Nothing about this studio or its staff is "ghetto." And using ghetto as a pejorative reeks of undertones of racism, social and class warfare, and a lack of gracious compassion that makes for a classy lady. If you don't know how to negotiate gracefully, that's on you, not others. If you can't find a way to ask "id like to sign up but let's set my payment up for a later date so I can speak with my husband and still lock in the deal as long as nothing is amiss," that's on you. A for profit business isn't going to continue to try to find alternatives for you when you put up resistance instead of approaching the conversation as a cooperation. read more

I have some ballroom dance experience and my boyfriend has zero. I was willing to pay the higher prices at this studio for better lessons. The teachers here are great at what they do. The reason for my low star rating was the way they tried to sell us on dances we weren't interested in. We paid for a month of private lessons for swing lessons, but we left without retaining ANY steps. As a way of introducing us to new dances the teacher would switch types of dancing every ten to fifteen seconds. "This is the six count step in west coast swing"... a few seconds later "You are now doing a box step" (waltz I think) and then "Look at that! You are now doing the rumba." All within the same song. At the time she was teaching it, the instructor led both of us. She was very good and did very well at leading us to do the proper steps to the dances she was talking about without us having to stop, but we weren't there to learn all of these other dances. I wanted to learn swing. After the first lesson I thought ok, this is probably how the first one goes to test our skills at different steps. I haven't taken private classes before. The next lesson was the same. I interrupted the instructor twice to remind her we only wanted to learn swing. She would teach us a few basics and a turn and would then return to the waltz. I don't think she was a fan of swing dancing. The third lesson was just like the second and we didn't even attend the last one. For us, it was a waste of money and we haven't taken a dance lesson since. read more

I am not a dancer by any means, but my wifey got us some lessons for our anniversary present. She knew I wouldn't be over the moon about it, so she didn't tell me and took me out for a surprise "dinner date". We arrived at Arthur Murray and I had absolutely no idea who or what Arthur Murray was. Perhaps some new cool bar I thought.... Jump ahead an hour and I can honestly say we had a fantastic experience. Our instructor, Erin, was extremely nice, very knowledgeable and whole lot of fun. I didn't expect to, but after our 4 introductory lessons, we plonked down the money to keep going. It is a wonderful thing to dance with your wife again after being married for 9 years and doing the whole "home" thing. We are into our third month of dance and have learnt a great deal. We can dance elements of the Tango, Foxtrot, Salsa, Cha Cha Cha, Waltz, Swing...not professionally by any means. We wouldn't win dancing with the stars, but competent enough that if a Tango came on at the next function we're at we'll hit the dance floor and strut our stuff. I wanted to address a few of the negative comments by other posters: - Yes, its pretty expensive. I wish it were a little cheaper. But, a private instructor, the ballroom, the music and the administration all cost money. I'm ok to pay good money for a good experience though. And yes, you will get a sales pitch when you are done with your first set of 4 lessons! Did you expect anything less? Good new is that I have found with these people, "no" is perfectly ok answer. We couldn't go to a Showcase event due to time/money/childcare problems. I could tell Erin really wanted us to be a part of it, but we said no and that was that. - I agree that sometimes the room is a little crowded with other private lessons going on. This is something you get used to. You don't always get the right song for the dance you are practicing, and dancing a waltz to a salsa song at first can be difficult. However our instructor, and it seems the others, endeavor to get the right song on when after a bit of practice you are about to try and 'put it all together". If you need some extra time dancing your wedding waltz just talk to Madison. She is very accommodating and I reckon they'd work something out for you. So I recommend if you ever felt that you might like to give ballroom dancing a try, if you ever wanted to Tango like James Bond, or if you want to look like you know how to Waltz on your wedding day, you should give Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Walnut Creek some thought. Ask for Erin, she's great, even though she and wifey gang up on me occasionally! :P read more

My husband and I found Arthur Murray in late 2012 when we were looking to take some lessons before our wedding. We were paired with Patrick, who is fabulous and through a few lessons, helped us come up with a great little routine that was a hit at our wedding! We were so happy with our wedding dance lessons, that we decided to continue and now take once a week lessons. We also take advantage of the group classes that they offer throughout the week, so sometimes we're there 2 or even 3 times in a week ! All of the instructors are so much fun, and they get to know you personally throughout your time. Through our lessons, we've learned to dance all different styles, but our favorites are Tango, Rumba, Bachata, and Foxtrot. We've also learned Hustle, Country-Western, Salsa, and Merengue. Dancing is lots of fun, and it's even more fun when you learn with these guys. Definitely recommend :) read more

I love this place. Finally getting back into dance after years! Walter is incredible. Yes, the classes are pricey, but you get what you pay for! If you are committed to dance, then this place is for you. The other reviews about the wedding dance classes... Obviously their hearts aren't into the art of dance, but rather just one event. I could see how the rates would seem expensive from that perspective. The instructors are fun and friendly. Nobody ever "pressured" me to buy anything. read more

We LOVE taking dancing lessons at Arthur Murray in Walnut Creek! It is often the highlight of our day! The instructors and staff are amazing. There is not one person in the studio who does not meet the description of : professional, friendly, respectful, warm and caring. For us, it all started over a year ago when I decided to give a birthday gift of dancing lessons to my partner. I recall how impressed I was when I walked into the studio one afternoon in December 2011 to buy the gift lessons and I met Madisen and Karen who were so warm and friendly that I could hardly wait for the beginning of our dancing journey. That was the beginning of a beautiful thing! Dancing at Arthur Murray has become part of our lives... an exhilarating experience. Soon after our begging at Arthur Murray, joint surgery forced me to take a long break but the wonderful members of Arthur Murray did not forget about us, as flowers and get well wishes abounded, followed by "we hope to see you soon again" periodical messages. Patrick has been our main instructor form the inception of our training and he, as well as others who have taught us along the way, have been most accommodating to our "steep" learning curve as well as our individual learning styles. We take several private classes per week and each day we look forward to our lessons with great anticipation . It is food for our soul. Dancing decreases our levels of accumulated daily life stress and makes us feel energized and renewed. But beyond the marvels of dancing, I believe credit is to be given to the people who are the ones who make this experience something worth repeating over and over again. My partner and I did not know how to ballroom dance at all, and for us learning how to dance was an unfulfilled wish... until now... thanks to Patrick, Walter , Karen and Madisen we are DANCING!!! Yeah!. They are awesome! read more

I'm updating my review to 5 stars. I had previously posted a negative review based on their accounting practice. The dance lessons and the quality of the instructors has alway been superb! My teen son has enjoyed learning to ballroom dance there for the past two years; he has gained confidence and has learned proper etiquette. Now that the company has addressed my accounting concerns in a complete and generous way, I'm confident in recommending their program. If you do decide to try it out, ask for Marissa. She is amazing! read more

I bought my girlfriend a set of classes for Christmas. It was amazing. We haven't had time to go back for our group class but the individual classes were great. They do focus on multiple dance though. We wanted to focus on one specific dance and they didn't like that idea lol. Still a great place. Satiam is awesome!! read more

I got a free private lesson from them together with my fiance. They have the best dance instructors in town, and they'll help you with the things to improve. I'd totally recommend this dance studio to anyone who is interested in ballroom dancing. read more

Took dance classes with Kalette! Awesome teacher! Loved her and would highly recommend her. Very patient and fun!!

Such a disappointment. I came in here with high hopes of signing up even knowing it would be a little pricey, but after experiencing the most horrendously, unprofessional, tacky sales pitch I have ever encountered, you can assure they never ended up with a dime from me. I have been dancing ( not ballroom) since the age of 3 - tap, ballet, you name it, and have always been passionate about eventually pursuing my desire to ballroom dance. I actually started with a studio in Livermore that was SPECTACULAR back when I was living in Oakley and seeing my then boyfriend ( now hubby) who lived in Livermore. That studio was even more pricey then this one, but the instructor ( owner) was AMAZING and totally was worth it, but I unfortunately could not afford to continue it sadly. Fast forward almost 4 years later, I decide to give this much raved about place a shot. Everything went great...until the end. I emailed online to have an instructor call me to set up a complimentary dance session....I was called within an hour of signing up. I set up the appointment for the next day to come in. I was warmly greeted by the girls that worked there upon entering. The place is beautiful and exudes the elegant ballroom elegance for sure. I was set up with a fantastic young gentlemen to dance with...I believe his name was Walter. He was great! So engaging, personable, and a spectacular teacher. The complimentary session then came to an end, I was told what I needed to improve on, and what I was naturally gifted with. I was then lead to the assistant manager? to discuss the package details....that's, when the classy, sophisticated illusion came to a screeching, ghetto halt....what...just....happened. This " girl" " assistant manager" that was so distastefully trying to set me up, conducted her approach in the most horrendous, fashion you can imagine. I felt as If I was approached by some distasteful eager women working a booth at the ghetto Sun Valley Mall. I asked a few questions in regards to the package she was going over with me, and it was a complete attitude. I also mentioned that I would have to discuss the package price with my husband when he got home from work that evening...how she approaches this " Oh, why don't you give him a call right now" " You can call him at work" and then proceeds immediately after with a stone cold, non friendly face "Once you leave here, you can't get the special deal" "Really?" I thought.....Is this Walnut Creek, or Antioch? This chick not only presented here self physically in a sloppy low class way, her approach on " trying to sign me up" was absolutely cringe worthy! So sad, because I really did want to sign up, for this place is close to home and the instructor was fantastic. So as you can imagine, I will be taking my dancing shoes elsewhere. read more

Sorry for long review but it has to be said; It's in a beautiful setting compared to other dance studios. HOWEVER, I did not like this place. While the staff is great, knowledgeable and patient, the concept is all wrong. - First; it has a high pressure sales pitch. And is way overpriced compared to some other studios. Strike one. ***** Second; private lessons, don't seem too private. Yes you are getting one on one attention but you are in a large ballroom w/other people taking "private lessons" to all different types of dance. For example, four couples are taking their "private lessons" all trying to learn completely different style dance. One has to try to learn the waltz while listening to salsa music or vice versa. Not conducive at all. The instructor leaves you multiple times to switch the music so it's very much a broken up hour private lesson. They do have separate rooms but seemed as if they are reluctant to let you use them for your lesson. Strike two. - Third; This company, although repeatable and has been around for over a century, is in it JUST for the money it feels. I prefer to drive a little bit further and dance at a studio that's focus is on dance and not the bottom line. Strike three. I will not be returning to this place. Positives; The space is elegant and all the people are pretty (from ages 20-90), the instructors really know how to dance and teach. read more

Absolute ripoff! I signed up for private lessons. You get charged triple digits for a "45" minute lesson. You basically just sample each dance and don't go in very much depth, even though I clearly said I wanted to learn to be able to compete in the future. It just felt like going to a club for fun and dancing with someone good. You feel great but learn nothing. You don't even dance the whole time you pay for. The last 5 minutes is spent sitting down with the instructor for him/her to write stuff down, which is a waste of my time and money, rather than more time dancing and perfecting the technique. Furthermore, you don't build on what you've learned the previous week. read more

Plainly said, I walk out with a smile every time I come to this studio. Arthur Murray has a long-standing reputation as the best in the business, but it's the staff and students in Walnut Creek that make this studio really exceptional. From the moment you walk in the door, it's clear that everyone is committed to excellent service -- by the second visit, I already felt at home. For those who aren't familiar with it, the Arthur Murray program pairs individual students or couples with a private teacher. I've found this one-on-one instruction method much more effective than the one-size-fits-all drop-in group class format that I'd been to a few times before. The teachers are each exceptionally talented and clearly dedicated to their craft and careers. My lesson plan is personalized for each visit, and I look forward to every lesson. The studio also hosts experience-based group classes and social ballroom dance parties almost every day, which are open to all students. These social dances build a unique camaraderie among the students. It's common to see students who maybe met just days before, hanging out in the studio, dancing, laughing and catching up on the news of the day. Students encourage one another in dance performances and enjoy formal events around the Bay Area together. I have been a student for roughly four months and can honestly say that there isn't any business that I think more highly of than Arthur Murray, Walnut Creek. read more

I recently posted a one-star review about this company and had outlined my bad customer service experience. I truly thought that would be the end of it; I would vent my frustration and would receive nothing in response from them. I was wrong. The owner, Chris, sent me a very kind apology, which is all i wanted to begin with. So I'm changing my review, because even though my intial experience was poor, this owner showed me he truly cares and at the end of the day that is all you can ask for. Thank you! read more

What can I say....best of the best!!!! Well managed, clean, fun, friendly, patient, kind and best of all....the instructors!! They are very professional and knowledgeable. I am challenged every week and I love it. My absolute favorite instructor is Misti! So talented, kind and fun!! She always notices what I did correctly and helps me with what I need to improve on. This place rocks!!! read more

I love Arthur Murray! I decided not to put off my bucket list any longer, I am hooked! I joke with my instructor that I will need a 12 step program to stop dancing! Thank you Walter for transforming this former dance floor fearful into a dance floor hog! The best part of my week is seeing everyone at Arthur Murrays, and enjoying the learning process of each new technique and having so much fun! I can't say enough good things about you and the entire staff. Suzanne M Pleasant Hill read more

I love the people here. They are all very nice and upbeat. The staff is knowledgable and they teach you a lot of stuff. Of course, if you are going to this place you cant be worrying about price. It is just expensive. read more

This is updated to all previous reviewed. I started at the studio August 1 ,2014 after my husband Albert who was 26 years older than me died May 26,2014 I met him dancing and up to nine years before he died we would go to dinner and dance. At the Elegant Farmer in Jack London Square the Claremont Hotel and other places. I missed that I started was going every day and for a while to two other locations. It has got me to move on date again and have met 2 friends there. My reviews were moments of grief or a memory you never know when it will come. I just wanted to say that I was upset at the loss and that triggered the previous reviews. I am now taking a break not going everyday so it did help read more

I came here to get ready for a black tie event last November. I've enjoyed it so much that I've been doing it ever since and I've seen notable progress in my dancing. The instructors are all awesome and very skilled at both dancing and teaching. The whole staff is very welcoming and friendly and they make you feel as if they've known you for years. The free group lessons and parties are a great way to supplement your private lessons and I feel that those nights are where I see some of my best progress. People there range from all skill levels and they do an amazing job accommodating to everybody's level. I would highly recommend Arthur Murray in Walnut Creek to anybody interested in dancing! read more

My partner and I have really enjoyed the lessons we are taking at Arthur Murray. I am a beginner/intermediate dancer and my partner is more advance. Our instructor, Walter, is the best instructor I've ever worked with that has made me want to come back for the next lesson. The staff is always friendly and efficient and the studio is always clean and a pleasure to go to for our lessons. Karen, the studio manager is a delight. We are so happy with our decision to work with Arthur Murray Walnut Creek and their fine staff. read more

My fiance and I went here for dance lessons for our wedding. As others have mentioned the lessons are very EXPENSIVE! Not only were they overpriced but the constant sales pitch from our instructor and the manager upset us so much that we never came back. When we were there it was fun but we constantly felt like they were holding back teaching us things because they wanted us to buy more lessons. Very disappointed! read more

Such a fun thing to do - dance and learn some skill to. We had a blast taking lessons and would have continued but didn't feel they challenged us enough classes were incredibly repetitive. But its fun and if you need some dance skills and help this is a great place to get the information you need. read more

I had always wanted to take ballroom dance lessons and finally tried out this studio last December. I chose Arthur Murray because I wanted quality instruction with opportunities for performing. (Desires clearly inspired by watching too many seasons of Dancing with the Stars.) I really like the professionalism of the studio. Each student has a program plan and a notebook which helps document progress. One of the reviewers felt cheated out of the full lesson time but I find it helpful to take a couple of minutes to review what I learned and prepare for the next lesson. I appreciate that my lessons are always on time and the dance floor is open to me if I arrive early or want to stay later. I've been pleasantly surprised at the traditional (old-school) customer service - I'm greeted by name and offered something to drink. There are no electronic devices distracting the instructors and I feel their full attention during my lesson. The atmosphere is positive, supportive, and, well, just darn happy. I didn't start out with the goal of meeting people but I have found a community of wonderful people who get as much joy from dancing as I do. I agree that the lessons are costly but if you can take advantage of the bonus group classes and practice parties, it's a little more palatable. As for me, I justify the expense as a long-term investment in my health and happiness. read more

Our organization put together a father/daughter event at Arthur Murray in Walnut Creek. We had 34 participants ranging in age from 12 to 50-something. Charlotte, the manager was a dream to work with. We were lucky enough to have Alex (lead) and Misty teach our one-hour class. Somehow they managed to take our varied group progressing through the waltz and the hustle in a fun and friendly manner. It was amazing! The beautiful ballroom, and Charlotte spinning the tunes from the DJ booth made for a magical evening. Thank you Arthur Murray Dance Studio!!! read more

With a family wedding coming up and no dance experience I decided to give Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Walnut Creek a try. I was pleasantly surprised. It's true they really have you dancing within 10 minutes! All the teachers are strictly professional, positive and love to teach dance. They have an entire curriculum on how to teach dancing that is simple to follow and fun! I really enjoy the individual attention but also the practice "dance parties" that gives you the exposure, experience and opportunity to begin to feel comfortable dancing with other people and teachers. They also offer group instruction. The studio has beautiful wood floors and decor. Not only am I learning to dance but I have met some wonderful people too! read more

Amar, Mark, Karen and Misty are the best! I've taken private lessons, group lessons and attended dance parties. They have a huge range of moves and are patient, compassionate, but powerful teachers. They prepped me for a high school reunion last year and I killed it! I never danced in high school or college but perfect strangers were raving about my dancing and I owe it all to the Walnut Creek crew. Tonight, I went to the Valentine's Day couples' lesson and dance party. It's a bargain and they throw in a free lesson. I had a ball and learned lots of new steps as I danced with the instructors while my date was resting. Don't miss out on this local gem. The WC studio is tucked behind Trader Joe's at the end of the little shopping center with Saigon Bistro. It's small but a whole lot happens there. Fun, fun, fun! read more

I had 2 years of ballroom dancing lessons as a teenager and my husband just loves to dance - so he gave me a gift certificate for Christmas to try this place out. It is close to work (bonus). First impression: very professional - clean, the teachers are very capable, pleasant and polite. I agree that the first lessons felt a bit disjointed. Many dances were introduced, which completely confused my husband, and I felt I wasn't learning anything new (since our levels were so different). However, we wanted this to be our new joint activity, as my husband is quite limited what he can do nowadays due to former football injuries (arthritis in all joints, bad back etc). So, I sat down with the new student coordinator, Madison, and explained to her what we wanted and needed in order to keep going. She was more than understanding and they tailored their "standard" program for us. My husband's memory is quite bad, so we do 2 dances at the most each session. When his back got really bad, we switched from traveling dances (e.g. Tango) to Latin dances like Salsa, which stay in place. When he gets frustrated with himself (typical former superior athlete), they are extremely kind and patient with him. They take his off the cuff humor well. They play music he connects with. And they let us choose the dances we want to do (no need to learn all of them - do what you love). There is a system at Arthur Murray, and I feel it can be a bit constrictive unless you speak up (I really encourage everyone to do so). To get your money's worth, do attend the group classes. This is where you will definitely learn new stuff which you can then perfect in your private lessons. I also like the fact you can drop in any time to practice. Madison is an incredible teacher - she breaks each new dance combo into small steps until you have learned the complete set. I knew I was going to enjoy dancing with my husband, but the wonderful surprise is that he too, loves the time we spend there. He is moving, strengthening his back , he is around people, he is working on his memory - there are frankly too many health benefits to mention - and we are having fun! Yes, it is a pricey investment, but there are few activities that combine so many aspects - and to us, to finally be able to do something "athletic" together, is well worth it. read more