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Top 5 Dance Classes in Portland

Top 5 Dance Classes in Portland

How we picked

Range of lessons

We picked dance schools that offer lessons for different dance styles from classic to modern. Plus points if the sessions are structured so as to prepare students for future dancing careers.

Cost

We checked if the registration fees are reasonable relative to the lessons offered. We also selected schools that offer options that can cater to different budgets.

Reputation

Our selection includes schools with dance instructors who are masters of their craft and have considerable years of teaching experience.

Customer service

We love schools that give a great first impression through an accommodating and friendly front desk.

1. Ecdysiast

Ecydysiast Homepage

Lessons: Beginner and advanced pole dancing classes

Website: https://www.ecdysiaststudio.com/

Address: 316 SW 11th Ave, #300, Portland, OR 97205

Contact Details: (503) 231-2542 | [email protected]

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM

Rates:

  • Courses: $299 (each level)
  • Series: $155
  • Single class: $25
  • Private lesson: $80
  • Virtual class: $20
Google reviews4.9/5
Yelp4.5/5
Total reviews5/5
Score consistency5/5
Range of lessons4/5
Cost4/5
Reputation5/5
Credentials5/5
Years in the business5/5
Customer service4.5/5
Responsiveness5/5
Helpfulness4/5

Pros

  • Lessons organized by skill level
  • Offers virtual classes
  • Offers membership
  • Convenient online registration system

Cons

  • Not for kids
  • Doesn’t offer make-up classes

If you want to know all things pole dancing, the Ecdysiast studio is a convenient place to take your lessons.

Solely focused on the said dance art, you can expect the studio to walk you through the basics and help you excel to become masters of the style. They have been doing this since 2008, so you can rest assured that you’re in good hands.

We love that the studio organized its classes so you’re certain of what you’ll be getting once you enroll in a session. If you want a curriculum-like program, you can opt for the courses or pay for a one-time class to get a taste of pole dancing first.

We also appreciate the upfront pricing, as it’s helpful for people who are shopping around for pole dance classes. That said, the rates are a bit pricey, so you’ll have to prepare your wallet.

Moreover, the studio doesn’t offer make-up classes, so you’ll have to attend all your sessions to make the most out of your buck. You’re allowed to cancel, but you need to do so 24 hours before your schedule.

2. Classical Ballet Academy

Classical Ballet Academy Homepage

Lessons: Ballet, contemporary dance, modern dance, inclusive dance

Website: https://www.classicalballet.net/

Address: 7970 SE Milwaukie Ave, Portland, OR 97202

Contact Details: (503) 890-6101 | [email protected]

Operating Hours: Monday and Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Tuesday and Thursday: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Friday: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Google reviews4.9/5
Yelp3.5/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency4/5
Range of lessons4/5
Cost3/5
Reputation5/5
Credentials5/5
Years in the business5/5
Customer service5/5
Responsiveness5/5
Helpfulness5/5

Pros

  • Kid-friendly
  • Inclusive environment
  • Rigorous, focused training
  • Accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB)

Cons

  • No at-a-glance price list on website
  • Limited classes for adults

Serious dancers in their formative years may want to consider attending a curriculum-based dance school like the Classical Ballet Academy.

The school has comprehensive programs for children and teenagers, blending ballet, contemporary dance, and other styles aimed at making students well-rounded dancers. 

There are also programs for adults, though the program for them is limited to ballet classes.

We love that the academy has been in the business since 2004, something reassuring if you’re wondering about how well-versed the instructors are in teaching kids. 

Moreover, the school has an A+ rating from Better Business Bureau, further cementing its reputation.

We would have loved it more had the academy posted their prices online, though. An at-a-glance price list is always convenient, especially for clients who are shopping around but can’t be bothered to call the school.

3. Steps PDX

Steps PDX Homepage

Lessons: Ballet, contemporary, modern, improvisation

Website: https://www.stepspdx.com/

Address: 522 N Thompson St, Portland, OR 97227 

Contact Details: (971) 400-0713 | [email protected]

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Rates:

  • Hip-hop track: $600
  • Ballet + contemporary track: $2,376 – $5,616 (depending on level)
  • Drop-in single class: $15
  • 4-class pass: $55
  • 10-class pass: $120
Google reviews4.9/5
Yelp4.5/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency5/5
Range of lessons5/5
Cost3/5
Reputation5/5
Credentials5/5
Years in the business5/5
Customer service5/5
Responsiveness5/5
Helpfulness5/5

Pros

  • Comprehensive lessons
  • Offers summer camps
  • Plenty of performance opportunities
  • Drop-in classes available

Cons

  • Pricey courses
  • Inflexible schedule

Steps PDX is the ideal training ground for young dancers because of its comprehensive curriculum and performance opportunities.

The formal dance lessons are divided by levels and last 3 to 10 months each. We love that field trips and performances are included in each curriculum, although they come at an additional cost.

The levels will introduce students to different dancing styles. If your kids wish to clear all the tracks, they’d be well-rounded enough to make dancing a profession.

Drop-in classes are also available for students who can’t commit to a semestral class but still want to hone their skills. There’s even a special program called DanceAbility that adults can participate in.

Enrolling in Steps PDX can be beneficial, but it’s not for everyone. After all, the fees are steep and the formal classes require a lot of time, and not everyone has the resources to support the endeavor.

Also, the formal classes are for young and pre-professional students, so older dancers might have to look for another studio.

4. Vitalidad Movement Arts and Events Center 

Vitalidad Movement Arts and Events Center Homepage

Lessons: Zumba, Afro-Latin dances, break dance

Website: https://www.vmacpdx.com/

Address: 116 SE Yamhill St, Portland, OR 97214

Contact Details: (971) 266-3935 | [email protected]

Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Rates:

  • Drop-in pass: $15
  • 5-class punch card: $70
  • 10-class punch card: $130
  • 4-week pass for unit class: $55
  • 5-week pass for unit class: $65
  • Intensive 3-month program: $300
Google reviews4.7/5
Yelp5/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency5/5
Range of lessons4/5
Cost5/5
Reputation5/5
Credentials5/5
Years in the business5/5
Customer service5/5
Responsiveness5/5
Helpfulness5/5

Pros

  • Teaches diverse dance styles
  • Drop-in classes available for modern styles
  • Passes are accepted in two VMAC locations
  • Offers private lessons

Cons

  • Limited hours on weekdays
  • Doesn’t accept minors

Adults who are into ethnic and fitness dances will love the lessons offered by Vitalidad Movement Arts and Event Center (VMAC). 

The studio’s Afro-Latin collection includes bachata, casino, salsa, and zouk. Unfortunately, these classes usually sell out one to two weeks in advance, so you’ll have to secure a slot ahead of your desired schedule.

Drop-in classes are available but only for other styles such as break dance, house, and twerk. If you want to try out the fitness class, you can also take advantage of the more affordable drop-in packages.

We love that VMAC also encourages community bonding with its dance socials. It’s the perfect opportunity if you want to create bonds while dancing.

Know that VMAC doesn’t accept young students, so you’ll have to leave your kid dancers at home. That said, minors aged 16 to 17 years old are required to present a special liability waiver signed by their parents.

5. BodyVox

Lessons: https://www.bodyvox.com/dance-center/class-schedule

Website: https://www.bodyvox.com/

Address: 1201 NW 17th Ave. Portland, OR 97209

Contact Details: 503.229.0627 | [email protected]

Operating Hours: Mon – Thu 9am – 5pm. Sat, Sun 10am – 9pm

Rates:

  • Contact for more information
Google reviews4.9/5
YelpN/A
Total reviewsN/A
Score consistencyN/A
Range of lessons4/5
Cost4/5
Reputation5/5
Credentials5/5
Years in the business5/5
Customer service5/5
Responsiveness5/5
Helpfulness5/5

Pros

  • Expertise and Experience
  • Diverse Offerings
  • Focus on Technique

Cons

Led by seasoned professionals with backgrounds in innovative dance companies like MOMIX, ISO Dance, and Pilobolus, BodyVox offers top-notch instruction rooted in years of experience.

We like that BodyVox provides a wide range of dance classes catering to various skill levels, interests, and body types. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, there’s something for everyone.

Despite the fun and open vibe, what we like is that BodyVox’s classes maintain a strong emphasis on technique.

Whether you’re revisiting ballet after years away or exploring a new style, you’ll receive quality instruction to help you build and refine your skills.

NodyVox’s unique blend of dance, theater, and film ensures that classes are not only physically challenging but also artistically stimulating.

Students have the opportunity to explore movement in innovative ways, fostering creativity and self-expression.

We highly recommend!

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