Academy of Ballet & Dance Arts

Nestled in the heart of Lake Oswego, Oregon, the Academy of Ballet & Dance Arts stands as a beacon for aspiring dancers and movement enthusiasts of all ages. This esteemed institution has cultivated a reputation for providing rigorous classical ballet training alongside a diverse range of dance styles in an uplifting and accepting environment. For over two decades, the Academy has been a cherished part of the local Oregon community, guiding students through a journey of artistic discovery, physical development, and personal growth.

Founded by Artistic Director Wendy Goldthwaite in 2000, the Academy of Ballet & Dance Arts (ABDA) has consistently upheld high standards of dance education. Their philosophy centers on building a solid foundation in classical ballet while fostering a profound love for dance in every student. Whether a tiny dancer is taking their first enchanted steps in a Fairy Tale Ballet class, or an advanced student is meticulously preparing for a pre-professional career, ABDA is dedicated to providing quality, professional instruction tailored to individual needs and skill levels.

The Academy’s commitment extends beyond just technical proficiency. They believe in the holistic development of their students, instilling discipline, dedication, and personal achievement that reaches far beyond the studio walls. Students not only learn intricate steps and graceful movements but also cultivate poise, confidence, and a deep appreciation for the arts. This nurturing approach, combined with a focus on safe and correct instruction, ensures that even the youngest dancers are protected from potential injury, allowing them to progress safely and effectively.

For families across the Oregon region, the Academy of Ballet & Dance Arts represents a unique opportunity to access top-tier dance education within a supportive and community-focused setting. It’s a place where talent is nurtured, passion is ignited, and the transformative power of dance is experienced by everyone who steps through its doors. The Academy’s long-standing presence and positive testimonials from local patrons underscore its vital role in the cultural landscape of Lake Oswego.

The Academy of Ballet & Dance Arts is conveniently located at 311 B Ave suite z, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, USA. This prime address places the studio in a central and easily accessible part of Lake Oswego, making it a convenient destination for families throughout the city and its surrounding communities in Oregon. B Avenue is a well-known thoroughfare, facilitating straightforward navigation for those traveling by car.

The location within downtown Lake Oswego often means proximity to other local amenities, shops, and eateries, allowing parents to manage errands or enjoy the neighborhood while their children are in class. Ample parking options are generally available in the vicinity, which is a significant advantage for the daily drop-offs and pick-ups associated with dance classes.

For those who prefer or rely on public transportation, local transit services in Lake Oswego and the wider Portland metropolitan area offer various routes that may provide access to areas near the Academy. However, for many Oregon families, driving remains the most practical means of transport. The Academy's strategic location ensures that it is well-integrated into the local community, minimizing travel time and making high-quality dance education easily reachable for a broad spectrum of local residents.

• Classical Ballet Training: The core of the Academy's offerings, providing rigorous instruction based on the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) method. Classes are structured for progressive development, with placement based on readiness rather than solely age.

• Early Childhood Dance Programs: Popular "Fairy Tale Ballet" classes for toddlers and young children (ages 2.5-5), which introduce ballet through imaginative dance choreography, familiar fairy tale themes, music, and props.

• Youth Ballet Classes: Curriculum-based ballet classes from Pre-Ballet (ages 5-7) through advanced levels (Ballet 1-7, Intermediate, Advanced), focusing on fundamental elements, strength, technique, balance, and artistry.

• Pre-Pointe and Pointe Training: Specialized classes for advanced ballet students, focusing on the transition to pointe work, pirouettes, and intricate combinations, requiring instructor approval and specific ballet class prerequisites.

• Adult Dance Classes: Comprehensive offerings for adults, including Absolute Beginning, Beginning, Advanced Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced Ballet. They also offer Adult Tap, Hip Hop, and Musical Theatre classes.

• Other Dance Disciplines: Beyond ballet, the Academy offers a variety of dance styles including:

  • Jazz: Incorporating new-age stylistic jazz with classical elements.

  • Tap: Reinforcing rhythm, technique, coordination, and style with various approaches (Broadway, post-modern, rhythmic).

  • Hip Hop: High-energy classes allowing dancers to infuse personality into learned moves.

  • Modern: Rooted in Release, Limon, and Cunningham techniques, crucial for understanding body and movement.

  • Lyrical: Combines ballet and jazz, drawing from song lyrics and emotions.

  • Contemporary: Focuses on combining several dance styles, fluid and creative.

  • Musical Theatre: Develops characterization and acting abilities alongside dance to Broadway songs.

• Supplementary Classes: Including Leaps & Turns (focusing on jazz and ballet progressions) and Stretch & Strengthen/Pilates Mat classes, highly recommended for all students for injury prevention and core strength.

• Performance Opportunities: Students have the opportunity to showcase their skills through an annual spring recital, and competitive team members participate in various events.

• Dance Camps: Themed camps are offered, such as Cinderella Dance Camp, Angelina Ballerina Dance Camp, Dance & Cheer Camp, Sleeping Beauty Dance Camp, and Frozen Dance Camp, providing fun, immersive experiences during breaks.

• Rigorous Classical Ballet Training: The Academy’s cornerstone is its strong emphasis on classical ballet, utilizing the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) method to provide a structured and progressive curriculum that develops technical precision, strength, and artistry.

• Experienced and Caring Direction: Led by Miss Wendy Goldthwaite, described by patrons as "the sweetest and most caring Ballet Coach," the Academy fosters an uplifting and accepting environment where students feel supported in their rigorous training.

• Comprehensive Age Range: Classes cater to a wide spectrum of ages, from pre-school toddlers (as young as 2.5 years old) to teens and adults, ensuring that individuals at any stage of life can pursue their passion for dance.

• Diverse Dance Disciplines: Beyond ballet, the Academy offers a rich variety of dance forms, including jazz, tap, hip hop, modern, contemporary, lyrical, and musical theatre, allowing students to explore different styles and develop versatility.

• Holistic Development: ABDA's philosophy extends beyond just dance technique, emphasizing life lessons, self-discipline, dedication, personal achievement, and the building of self-confidence in a positive setting.

• Focus on Safe and Correct Instruction: Special attention is given to proper body alignment and technique to prevent injuries, especially crucial for young, developing bodies, ensuring a healthy and sustainable dance journey.

• Performance Opportunities: Students have the chance to showcase their skills in annual recitals and other performances, providing valuable stage experience and a sense of accomplishment.

• Long-Standing Community Presence: With over two decades in Lake Oswego, the Academy has a deep-rooted connection to the local community, having nurtured generations of dancers and contributing significantly to the local arts scene.

Address: 311 B Ave suite z, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, USA

Phone: (503) 381-3281

Mobile Phone: +1 503-381-3281

For families and individuals across Lake Oswego and the wider Oregon region, the Academy of Ballet & Dance Arts stands as an exceptional local resource for high-quality dance education. Its suitability for locals stems from several key aspects that resonate deeply with the community's values and needs.

Firstly, the Academy offers a unique blend of rigorous classical ballet training and a broad spectrum of other dance styles. This versatility is incredibly beneficial for Oregon families, as it allows children and adults alike to explore various forms of movement under one roof. Whether a child dreams of becoming a professional ballerina or simply wants to enjoy the expressive freedom of hip hop, ABDA provides expertly crafted pathways. This comprehensive offering streamlines schedules for busy parents and encourages students to become well-rounded dancers.

Secondly, the consistently positive feedback from local patrons, particularly highlighting the caring and supportive nature of the director, Miss Wendy, underscores the Academy's nurturing environment. For Oregon parents, knowing that their children will receive top-tier instruction in a place that also fosters kindness, acceptance, and personal growth is paramount. This emphasis on a positive atmosphere helps children build not just dance skills but also crucial life skills like discipline, confidence, and perseverance.

Furthermore, the Academy’s commitment to age-appropriate and safe instruction is a significant comfort to local families. They understand that young bodies are still developing and tailor their teaching methods to ensure healthy progress and injury prevention. This responsible approach, combined with a curriculum that is both challenging and inspiring, makes ABDA a trusted choice for parents seeking to invest in their child's physical and artistic well-being.

Lastly, its convenient location in downtown Lake Oswego makes the Academy easily accessible for daily commutes, integrating seamlessly into the routines of local households. The opportunity for students to participate in performances, whether in annual recitals or competitive events, also provides a tangible sense of achievement and a chance to share their passion with the community. For any Oregon resident looking for a professional, supportive, and comprehensive dance education, the Academy of Ballet & Dance Arts is truly a local gem.

Academy of Ballet & Dance Arts

311 B Ave suite z, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, USA