Our 12-yer old daughter has been going to Bender Performing Arts (BPA) for several years now. We cannot be happier with our experience with BPA. Meri and Kevin Bender are not only attentive business owners, but wonderful people. They treat every student and their family as their family. All the instructors project that care and attention as well. Not only is the Bender team devoted to teaching the arts but focus even more on their students being good citizens. The recent pandemic was a challenge for everyone, yet Meri & Kevin found a way to keep their studio open which was particularly important when the schools were closed to in-person learning. They have also facilitated combined travel and dance opportunities that our daughter has taken advantage of, i.e. dancing at Disneyland, and going to a summer dance camp in Colorado. We highly recommend BPA for anyone who wants to introduce their child to the arts. Yvonne & Mike B., Phoenix read more

Our daughter spent the past four years dancing at Bender and are only leaving now because we're moving out of the area. The ballet program is outstanding. Front Desk staff is always friendly and extremely helpful. Throughout the years, our daughter had Miranda, Beth, Julia, and Dani, and each year was a fantastic experience. The recital always runs like a perfectly oiled machine. If you're looking for a supportive and technique superior dance studio that treats everyone like family, Bender is the place to be! read more

Update*** The manager Kevin called me and had several solutions to the issues I raised on this review. He was very helpful and seemed to really care. I truly appreciated him calling me and hearing what I had to say. I changed my review because I don't believe the front desk women I spoke to on the phone represents Bender performing Arts as a whole, since my other daughters class experiences here have been pleasant and positive. All 3 of my daughters started going a few months ago. The 6 year old classroom where parents sit is dark because the light has to be off to even kinda see your kid. There is a small window in this small room where you can try to look in. It's awful. The teacher is very nice but doesn't give direction. The kids just do whatever and she doesn't correct them or help them. I called to get some help for these issues and I was told I was the only one who feels this way and there was nothing they could do. read more

We had my daughter's 8th birthday here and it was so much fun! The decorations they did were fantastic and matched the theme we picked perfectly. The dance class they did was great for all skill levels of our guests and everyone had a great time. Would highly recommend! read more

I experienced a lot of bullying from both teachers and students. Actual material was fine but some instructors were snotty nightmares straight out of Mean Girls. The instructor who claims to be Miss Arizona kicked me out within the first ten minutes of the first day of class because a hair pin fell out of my bun, and I bent down to pick it up. She yelled at me for being "unprofessional". I was literally a 9 year old kid. She wouldn't let me continue in her class simply because of this reason. How "professional" of you. No other class I wanted was available at that time, so that was my last day at bender after being there for 6 years. I experienced a lot of snotty and bully behavior from other students as well. The actual studio itself is not kid friendly. Looks more like an industrial factory. Does not look like a dance studio. I always felt uncomfortable in that building. Also when I went there it always reeked of trash because kids and parents would bring in snacks and not clean up after themselves. Don't know if it's still like that today but honestly wouldn't be surprised if it still is. read more

This is the best dance studio in Phoenix, hands down! I was a dancer here for a decade growing up in the 90's, and the values and strict dancer regime here sets quite the foundation for life. Now, my daughter is a dancer at this studio, and I'm always impressed by the professionalism of the staff. We had scheduling conflicts during my daughters first two years of dance which we chose two different studios, and trust me when I say no one else out there even compares. (Even during both those recitals, my family commented that they were "nothing like Bender"!) Other reviews mention recital fees, which are all a part of being in a top-notch recital program. Thanks for the difference made in my life, and now my daughters! read more

This review is coming in a few parts. 1. Cost. I signed my 7 year old up here because they have musical theater. She decided on 2 classes. Musical and Jazz. Total was $107 a month. Ok, not bad. But what you don't see is there are 4 payments of almost $70 due for the Musical performance. She doesn't have a lead part (or any part either). She's in 1 dance. That's it. That's a little $$ In my opinion. 2. Customer service. I picked my daughter up after class one night, and in a hurry she forgot her dance bag (with over $100 worth of dance stuff in it). It was too late when we noticed and decided to wait to get it at her class (they have a lost and found). Only to discover the next week it was no where to be found. Since then I've spoken to a few different people who assure me that if someone took it, they'd bring it back or if it was there it would be in the lost and found. It couldn't possibly have gotten left somewhere eLse and NO ONE would have moved it. Not once when I went in did anyone check cabinets, boxes, storage just to be sure. Then, the lady basically called me a liar and said "I am pretty sure your daughter came and got it from the front". Unless my 7 year old can drive, she DIDN'T! I get that I am partially responsible for the bag missing, but Jesus. Have some empathy to the plight people. I'm going to talk to her main teacher and email the school. I'm hoping someone can help. Very frustrating read more

Bender performing arts offers a variety of classes in many disciplines. This includes a competitive performing company called Dancemotion, a full theater department, music and voice lessons, and dance/gymnastics. The problems with BPA are rooted in the inequities that exist between the performing company and all of the other disciplines. For example, if your child takes a few dance classes just for fun, their class will be showcased in the recital at the end of the school year. This is the only stage time your student will get, which is pretty normal for any dance studio. However, as opposed to taking this opportunity to highlight non-company dancers in their only production of the year, BPA pads the recital with Dancemotion performances, making it a tedious three hours long. It is insult to injury for these dancers and their parents when you consider that Dancemotion participates in at least two full length productions of their own earlier in the year, in addition to competing and performing in multiple venues year round. With tuition that can barely be called competitive, forcing parents to sit through forty-five minutes of previously performed company show dances in order to get to their own child's 3 minute routine is unnecessary, to say the least. The theater program that has been developing over the last few years can only be described as amateur hour. Last season was filled with contradictory emails, numerous additional fees, and a complete lack of organization. There was no focus on skill or technique, only a push for over acting worthy only of an audience wide cringe. The kids worked REALLY hard, but without proper direction were unable to produce anything of quality. AGAIN, adding insult to injury, BPA padded their musical theatre productions with company performers, all the way down to casting the lead roles with the children and family members of the owners and directors. To contrast our experience at BPA, there are many highly successful community theaters in town. These organizations are usually set up as nonprofits. They are professionals with experience in theater and directing. They know how to put on a top notch show. The audition process is based on merit, and is free from bias. In my experiences, rehearsals and most costuming were free of charge, with the expectation that parents donate just a little of their time for volunteering during the performances. However, every theater is different, and you would be wise to read the fine print before signing up anywhere. Some examples of good venues here in Phoenix are Valley Youth Theatre, Theatre Works, And Stagebrush Community Theatre. In short, if your child is skilled enough to get into the dance company at BPA, and you can afford the pricey tuition, this might be the place for you. If your child is interested in musical theater and dancing for fun, you should seriously consider other options. read more

Both our son and daughter are now teens and have danced at Bender Performing Arts since they were 5 and 3. The studio owners and staff emphasize character, wellbeing, and community and use dance as a powerful means of instilling the best of these in our kids. This is a truly great env and influence for children to grow and thrive in. read more

First impression is good so far. My 8 year old daughter just signed up for beginner jazz and tap. Her teacher Britni seems really good with the students. It really like how they have the closed circuit tv's in the lobby area so you have the choice to sit there or in front of the studio and watch through the glass windows. One tip: the bathrooms are really crowded so bring your child dressed and ready to go! read more

I find this dance sorry to be exceptional and professional. Customer service is excellent I would highly recommend for any child. Also I think the prices are reasonable read more

We LOVE BPA! My daughter has been there since she was 3. She has had many different teachers and participated in many different styles of dance as well. She has loved every single one of her teachers. They have patience, and make the class fun as well as teaching them proper technique. I can't say enough about the owners and the environment they set for their studio. They walk the walk as they show their students that giving back to the community is so important. I can't thank them enough for what they have done with my daughter. They have touched so many lives, and for that we are so grateful. read more

Having come from 2 different studios, I have to say that "the third time is definitely a charm!" My daughter has been dancing for 9 years and has been a competitive dancer for 4 years. We've been here for almost a year and I can't believe what a difference a year has made for her. For her personally, I've watched a child who was ready to give up dance a year ago because she was beaten down by an extremely negative environment to a child that has a renewed love and passion for dance. The teachers are beyond wonderful and have gone out of their way to encourage her to strive to be the best she can be. She was used to a lot of yelling and put downs, so this has been such a new concept for her to learn in a positive manner. From the practical and financial side of it, let me first say that dance is an expensive sport. However, this year alone I've actually saved money compared to what I paid the last three years for her to compete and I've seen more progress this year than I have the last three. I was used to never knowing what anything was going to cost. At BPA, they are very forthcoming with expenses and I have not found anything to be a hidden fee. Information is readily available and they do an excellent job communicating with parents. Furthermore, I am a firm believer that the people working your front counter truly represent the atmosphere of your business. The women working the front desk are always so courteous and pleasant. Always so positive and willing to help with information. Again, my past experience was not this at all. Another important aspect for us when choosing this studio was what kind of examples do the teachers, staff, and owners set for the kids. In this day and age, it is very important that our children are surrounded by adults who are positive role models. And once again, BPA goes above and beyond in this area. What impressed me the most was at a parent meeting, one of the owners said "we are interested in developing your child as a human being first and a dancer second." For me, this was huge because a child may not go on to be a professional dancer but by being at this studio they are going to learn how to be a giving, caring, and decent adult no matter what occupation they pursue. Lastly, This studio is not close to my home and I pass by at least 4 studios to get here but it is totally worth the drive. When it comes down to it, you have to find what works best for you and your family, making the change to Bender Performing Arts was the best choice we could of made for our daughter. read more

We have been to several studios in the area and this place is by far the best. My girl spends hours each week at this studio and is in the performing group. The teachers are phenomenal and really care about their students. A child will not only learn how to dance but will also learn how to be a good person and get along with others. They teach life skills here and also how to give back to the community. A lot of great dancers are developed here and they have so much fun learning. read more

I am a mother of 2 girls,both dancers.My oldest one, started dancing at a different studio,different state, when she was 3.We've been in other studios,very nice studios. Dance studios are a business,therefore there are here to make money and provide the best service and training that they can. Bender Performing Arts is amazing!!!From their staff,owner and dancers. . They are so organized and give plenty of options for payments and the choice to not be involve at the recital at all,since there are extra costs and extra rehearsals at that time. I do believe "volunteer work" makes a community grow and I love that Bender gives us the opportunity to give back,it really takes a village to put a recital together. . At Bender ,they have a non profit dance company,Dance motion.They provide free dance classes for kids that can't afford lessons for the entire school year.They have a huge fundraiser called Dance Inspiration at the Orpheum theater,where they raise thousands of dollars for different organizations.They offer discounted tickets for the girls scouts.They donate over 1000 tickets and transportation for students from lower class neighborhoods.They adopt 5-6 families around Xmas time,and make sure they have a decent Holiday season.And the most amazing thing is, they do all those things in a very humble and quiet way. At this tough economy,we made a lot of cuts,but one thing my family agreed,taking dance away from my girls was never a question,they love to dance,they love to dance at Bender Performing Arts and we are so proud and honored to be part of such an incredible program,because we feel our children are not only becoming better dancers,but better people. read more

I am the father of three girls which two of them attend Bender. My girls cannot wait to go to dance each week. To me it is a great Studio. When I stop by to watch my girls everyone on staff is so nice and accommodating. My girls are becoming great dancers due to this program. They are learning discipline, sportsmanship, getting exercise and making life long relationships. To me they teach more than dance, they teach social skills, competition, sportsmanship, compassion and self steam. These are things that will last a life time. I cannot put a price on that. The joy it brings my girls day in day out is amazing. I could not be happier with Bender, it owners and its staff they are great people. Times have been tough on our family for the last three years ,so we have had to cut back on many things we used to take for granite to keep our girls in Dance. I am sure if I looked I could save a little money at a different Studio I don't know because I have never looked. It is worth the price to be part of the Bender family for myself, my wife and my girls. We would not change Studio's at any price. I have been to recitals, competitions and the Orpheum since day one and have love each and every one of them. My family comes in from out of town every year to watch all the girls dance. They put on a great show. I recommend Bender to everyone I know that has kids I think it is a great place. With all the dance shows on TV, dance is becoming more and more popular for girls, boys and adults. I know Bender teaches the girls that only a few will ever make it as a professional dancer and to dance because it is your passion, but hey 3 girls made it to So you Think You Can Dance out of thousands of dancers all over the USA in the past four or five years, for my money it must be a pretty good Studio. As a Bender parent I just want to thank everyone at Bender for all you do and all you give to my family. Dancer Dad read more

Having just finished my daughter's 9th recital at Bender Performing Arts (BPA), once again I can't find enough good things to say! They have the recital process down to a science.... starting in Dec. when we all receive our Recital Packets. The packets cover everything you need to know and then some, their staff is always friendly and available to answer any questions you might have. They give everyone the equal opportunity to volunteer in a multitude of different positions & times to fit each families needs - from selling flowers, to helping with costumes, in exchange for your time spent, they offer an earlier selection for Recital tickets. Although most of the recitals are held at Horizon and there really isn't a bad seat in the house! The owners, Kevin & Meri Bender stress that giving back is very important, it fosters a sense of community & togetherness and it really creates a large family atmosphere! Many volunteers return year after year to help with recital, even though their own dancers have gone on to graduate! The Recital itself is amazing & professional from start to finish. They have six 2 1/2 hour shows during the week and each comes off with hardly a hitch! If you have sat through other studios 4 1/2 hr. recitals with several minutes in between the dances... you know what I mean. Recital tickets are reasonable and usually available right up to showtime, unless they happen to sell out the evening! On many occasions, I buy my tickets at the door. The lobby is set up with flowers, sweet treats & water all reasonably priced to fit everyone's budget. They sell a 50+ page keepsake program filled with personal ads placed by the parents, bios of the graduating seniors and the talented BPA staff for $1.00. I highly recommend Bender Performing Arts for anyone that has children that LOVE to dance! Your children will be surrounded by a caring, professional staff who will foster their love of dance! read more

Bender Performing Arts (BPA) is an incredible dance studio. As the mother of 3 dancers, I appreciate the positive family atmosphere created by the owners, Kevin and Meri Bender, and all the amazing teachers. The fees are straight forward and completely transparent. All information regarding the fees and the recital are provided at the beginning of the year. There are no surprise fees and you will never wonder what you are paying for. The office staff is extremely helpful and is always there to answer all questions with a smile. Recital week is run with complete professionalism. Each dance runs seamlessly into the next. The recital is always held at a Paradise Valley School District High School. There are no bad seats in the auditorium and tickets are extremely reasonably priced. There is even the opportunity to see the recital for free with general seating at the dress rehearsal. The dress rehearsal is run identical to the two other performances, with complete professionalism. As a Phoenix native, I began dancing at this studio in 1977. There was no doubt in my mind as to where I would send my 3 daughters to receive a high quality dance education in a caring, family atmosphere. read more

While the dance classes are good, Bender is a very greedy company. The kids work all year as they prepare for the performances. After paying monthly fees and hugely inflated costume fees there are then the ticket fees to see the show. And with 2 shows, parents who want to be involved must pay for tickets to both shows (yes, parents have to buy their tickets too-- not even 1 or 2 free show tickets for each child who participates). What is even worse if the process to get tickets. You have to volunteer (yes, for free) your time with Bender to move up the priority list which determines when you can buy the tickets. This is a for-profit business but they bribe parents to donate time to them in exchange for letting them buy tickets (at full price) earlier than those who don't give free labor. Oh, and the more you volunteer, the higher up the list you go. So those who don't want to give free labor get the crappy seats at the show. This is wrong! (If you want free help, at least GIVE those people free tickets-- don't charge them). Oh, and after you have paid thousands (yes, thousands) of dollars to Bender over the year for all of the fees associated with the program, they have the nerve to charge for a program at the year-end performance. It's just a simple black and white (6 pages or less as I recall) but you have to buy it. You'd think after all we do for them they would give it to the guests who paid to see the show. read more

Teachers are phenomenal. Clean atmosphere. Lots of room. My girls love it! I do agree its a bit pricey, especially the fees associated with performances read more

We are current customers at Benders. We are not the over zealous dance family. My daughter takes dance as an exposure to the discipline and extracurricular activity. Nonetheless, I believe that the school needs to really consider how to best orchestrate an end of the year Recital Show that doesn't JUST focus on the needs of their dance company performers. Yes, these students wish to pave a career in dance, hence their shows are very detailed, BUT for those who are not in this group, our daughters don't need to sit through 3 hours (twice a week) of "backstage craziness" - especially when they are young. Benders needs to better asses their customer pool and differentiate between the two. Club soccer does this well. You have the recreational league and the competitive / ID college that are managed to serve the two different types of players. I do not recommend this school unless you are interested in making a career out of dance. Otherwise it's not the place for your dancer. read more

Bender Performing Arts (BFA) is an incredible studio - impressive from the moment you walk in the door and the friendly office staff welcomes you. When I moved to Phoenix 4 years ago, I researched numerous studios and decided on Bender Performing Arts because of their dance class choices - times and variety of types of dance, theater class, music classes. I came from another state, another studio and they could learn a lot from BFA. You receive the recital information packet in December with all the dates you need to know - rehearsal times, recital times, etc. Their organization is bar none. I was able to notify my out of state family of my kid's dance recital in December, plenty of time to book flights. The fees are right there in black and white - no surprises. Any other add ons (trophies, flowers, program ads, etc) are completely optional with absolutely no pressure to buy. The volunteer options are endless and the more you volunteer, you get placed in a category on when you can buy your tickets. Brilliant! I am not able to volunteer in these higher categories and I have never had a problem getting tickets or have never gotten a bad seat. In fact, this year, I bought 2 tickets the day of the Saturday night show and got fine seats. The recital is always at Horizon High School and there isn't a bad seat. And then at the recital, there are flowers sales, concession and water sales - and all at reasonable prices. I got a bouquet for under $10, a water for $1 and a beautiful program for a $1. Again, very impressed and can fit any budget. The owners, Meri and Kevin Bender are always present and very welcoming. The office staff gladly answers all questions and concerns with respect and I'm sure they've heard every question a hundred times and they have always answered mine with a smile. I give Bender Performing Arts an excellent rating and recommend it to anyone looking for an established, solid, reputable dance studio. read more

Dance training itself is good. Costumer service, dedication to students, parental involvement, and teacher attitude is not appropriate. Red tape surrounds you at every turn. They charge a lot and do very little. The studio is all about making money and keeping the parents blind. We are very thankful the year is over!! read more