I know this is really late in response. But thought I would put in my two cents.
I probably have at least seen you or know you, since I also dance there. Yes, you do have to pre-pay and sign contracts, but you can get your money back. I think the pressure of their sales tactics is horrible, but they do have excellent teachers and you will gain the information you wanted to know. I'm a little surprised in reading this chain to find even the owner of "Shall We Dance" (Mona) takes lessons in Chandler. Talk to her personally and find out what she thinks.
I love dancing there, but it is expensive, and there is that old adage, "You get what you pay for".

I taught for a chain several years ago. From experience, I would recommend and independent studio/teacher and as the other post recommeded, one who produces good dancers. I taught for a couple of years in the early 90's and I hated the high pressure sales techniques. I started dancing again as a student and one of my earlier co-workers had gone independent, so I took lessons from him.
I can't afford much myself and the pay-as-you-go works fine for me. In the midwest we pay $70 per lesson. I'm starting to compete, and that rasies the bar financially, but I am getting great technique as a result.

PLEASE remember - not ALL chains are evil and not ALL independents are the answers to students' prayers. (Where do you think SOME independent instructors learned about sales techniques????) And SOME independents haven't learned reputable sales techinques at all.
If you are student at EITHER a chain or an independent studio - ASK them about their lessons rates, discounts, pre-paid lessons, competition rates, etc. If they are reputable, they will answer your questions.
And, NO, it DOES NOT imply that you have to be "mean and nasty" to get the information - all you have to do is ask your questions in a perfectly conversational manner. If, after your initial questions, either the chain or independent becomes evasive - well, THAT is the time for your caution radar to go into overtime.