Columbia Dance Center

For families and individuals across the Washington region, particularly those in Vancouver and surrounding communities, Columbia Dance Center stands as a cherished cultural institution and a premier destination for dance education. Since its founding in 1987, Columbia Dance has been dedicated to enriching the community by providing exceptional training and performance opportunities in classical ballet and other pertinent dance forms. It's more than just a dance school; it's a vibrant community where aspiring dancers of all ages and abilities are welcomed into a rigorous yet incredibly supportive environment designed to nurture technical excellence and artistic sensibilities. This non-profit organization is deeply committed to making the art of dance accessible and impactful, fostering a love for movement and self-expression in every student.

Columbia Dance Center believes that ballet training goes beyond just developing good dancers; it helps shape good people. Their mission is to present dance as a life-enhancing experience, setting high artistic standards in education and performance while creating a positive, nurturing, and challenging space where appreciation for dance truly thrives. They value inclusiveness, embracing children of all ages, genders, and body types, and emphasizing the development of the "whole dancer." This means giving as much value to life skills like self-discipline, self-confidence, respect, wellness, and teamwork as to the specialized technicalities of dance. Professional dance instructors work cohesively to provide a learning environment where high expectations are set and met through student dedication and faculty mentorship. This holistic approach ensures that students not only excel in dance but also gain invaluable life skills.

The positive experiences of local customers genuinely underscore the value Columbia Dance Center brings to the Vancouver community. One enthusiastic reviewer proclaims it the "Best dance space in the NW," praising the owner as "amazing and super knowledgeable" and calling it the "Best place to start your kiddo in dance!" Another customer shared their profound appreciation: "I genuinely love this dance school and the community it creates." After a "bad experience with a different school," they found it "so nice to come into an organized, affordable, and clean studio." They particularly highlighted that "every teacher cares about every dancer," noting that "Their children’s program is growing and their ballet program excels." This reviewer wholeheartedly recommends Columbia Dance "to anyone looking for a dance program in the Vancouver area!" These testimonials paint a clear picture of a dedicated, high-quality, and caring institution that prioritizes its students and community.

Columbia Dance Center is conveniently located at 1700 Broadway St, Vancouver, WA 98663, USA. This central Vancouver address makes it highly accessible for residents throughout the city and surrounding areas within the Washington region, including Camas, Battle Ground, and Ridgefield. Situated on Broadway Street, the studio is easily reachable via major local roads, simplifying drop-offs and pick-ups for busy families. Ample parking is typically available in the vicinity, adding to the convenience for students and parents.

Furthermore, Columbia Dance is not just a studio but an active part of the Vancouver community. Its location facilitates partnerships with local businesses, schools, and other community arts organizations, reflecting its investment in keeping art alive and well in the area. Being in such a central and accessible spot allows the center to serve a broad demographic, including over 2,000 school children annually who attend their Nutcracker performances, further cementing its role as a key cultural resource for Southwest Washington. This strategic location ensures that quality dance education and performance opportunities are within reach for many local residents.

Services Offered:

• Professional quality instruction in classical ballet, serving as the "backbone" of their curriculum.
• A variety of other pertinent dance forms, including creative movement, pre-ballet, pointe, modern, jazz, hip hop, and lyrical.
• Comprehensive training programs for all ages, from preschoolers (ages 3-4) in Pre-Ballet and Tap, to children, youth, and adults.
• Leveled programs (e.g., Leveled Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Contemporary) to ensure age and skill-appropriate progression.
• Specific programs like "Little Bit Hip" (ages 5-6) for energetic beginners.
• Pre-Pointe and Pointe classes for advanced and serious ballet students, with instructor evaluation required for Pointe 1.
• Adult Dance Program, offering classes in ballet, tap, jazz, and hip hop for all levels, providing a great way to stay active and learn new skills.
• Private Lessons available for all ages and skill levels in various styles, ideal for audition preparation, catching up on choreography, or customized solos.
• Year-round and seasonal programs, including Summer Camps and Intensives, to provide continuous learning opportunities.
• Inclusive Dance (INCLUDE) classes designed for accessibility and equal participation for children with and without disabilities, promoting an integrated and supportive environment.
• Performance opportunities through two main performing ensembles (determined by age and technical ability) and annual productions.

Features / Highlights:

• Established in 1987, boasting a long history of providing quality dance education in the Vancouver area.
• Founding by Wendy de la Harpe and Jan Asai, and currently led by an experienced Artistic Director.
• Emphasis on professional quality instruction in a nurturing, rigorous, and supportive atmosphere.
• A non-profit organization, deeply invested in community outreach and service, making dance accessible.
• Annual full-length productions of "The Nutcracker," a beloved holiday tradition for the community.
• Annual "Spring Gala" featuring choreographic premieres and restaging of classical ballets.
• "Columbia Dance Presents!", their annual school performance, showcasing student talent.
• Hosting the "Choreographer's Showcase" for 17+ years, encouraging pre-professional choreographers.
• A proud member of the Regional Dance America/Pacific Region, participating in annual festivals featuring top companies.
• Strong focus on developing "the whole dancer," emphasizing physical, intellectual, artistic, emotional, and social growth.
• Highly praised by customers for its organized, affordable, and clean studio environment.
• Dedicated instructors who genuinely care about every dancer's progress and well-being.
• Growing children's program and an excelling ballet program, reflecting ongoing development and quality.
• "Best dance space in the NW," according to customer reviews, indicating a high standard of facilities and experience.
• Commitment to inclusivity, with programs like INCLUDE actively promoting accessible dance education for all children.

Contact Information:

Address: 1700 Broadway St, Vancouver, WA 98663, USA

Phone: (360) 737-1922

Mobile Phone: +1 360-737-1922

For residents across the Washington region, especially those in Vancouver and its surrounding communities, Columbia Dance Center truly stands out as an exceptional resource for dance education and artistic enrichment. Its long-standing history, commitment to professional quality instruction, and nurturing environment make it an ideal choice for dancers of all ages and skill levels. Whether your child is just beginning their dance journey, or you are an adult looking to rediscover a passion, Columbia Dance offers a supportive, organized, and engaging space to learn and grow. Their dedication to inclusivity, combined with a robust program of classes and captivating performances like the annual Nutcracker, ensures that this local institution provides not just dance training, but a truly life-enhancing experience for the entire community. Choosing Columbia Dance means becoming part of a valued tradition of artistic excellence and community spirit right here in Vancouver.

Columbia Dance Center

1700 Broadway St, Vancouver, WA 98663, USA