Datura

For those in the Oregon region with a passion for dance, particularly the captivating art of belly dance and other movement arts, Datura in Portland stands as a truly unique and enriching destination. More than just a studio, Datura is a vibrant hub where students from all walks of life can explore, learn, and grow in a supportive and inspiring environment. It's renowned for being the home of Datura Online, an extensive online school, and for embodying "Datura Style" belly dance, a fusion style deeply rooted in the expertise of its founders and instructors. Whether you're taking your first steps into the world of dance or are an experienced performer seeking to refine your technique, Datura offers a welcoming space to connect with your body, express yourself, and join a passionate community right here in Portland.

Datura prides itself on fostering an inclusive atmosphere where individuals feel comfortable exploring this joyous and challenging dance form, regardless of age, shape, gender identity, fitness level, or prior dance experience. The emphasis is on building a strong foundation for personal practice and artistic development, ensuring that every student feels empowered in their journey. From its spacious studios to its commitment to quality instruction, Datura provides an unparalleled experience for anyone looking to delve into the beauty and complexity of belly dance and related movement arts in the heart of Oregon.

Datura is conveniently located at 116 NE Russell St, Portland, OR 97212, USA. This address places it squarely in Northeast Portland, a dynamic and well-connected part of the city, making it easily accessible for residents from various neighborhoods across Portland and the wider Oregon metro area. NE Russell Street is a recognizable thoroughfare, simplifying navigation to the studio.

For those traveling by car, street parking is typically available in the vicinity. While there isn't a designated parking lot for the studio, there's usually ample space on the street. It's worth noting that if the nearby Wonder Ballroom has an early show, parking might be slightly more challenging on those specific days, so checking their schedule beforehand could be helpful. Portland's robust public transportation system, TriMet, also offers convenient access. Numerous bus lines serve the Northeast Portland area, with stops likely within a reasonable walking distance of the studio. This makes Datura an accessible destination for those who prefer to use public transit, aligning with Portland's commitment to sustainable commuting options. The studio's location within a space of the Portland Prince Hall Masons, known for its stunning woodwork and huge windows, adds to the unique and engaging physical environment, further enhancing the overall experience for local patrons.

Services Offered:

• In-person belly dance classes for all levels, from beginners to professionals.
• Specialized instruction in "Datura Style" belly dance, a unique fusion style, as well as other forms like Raqs Sharqi.
• Comprehensive training programs like "The 8 Elements of Belly Dance," focusing on strong foundations and artistic development.
• Online dance and fitness classes through Datura Online, offering a vast library of videos for streaming anytime, anywhere, including belly dance, yoga, and Pilates.
• Weekend workshops and teacher training intensives for deeper immersion and professional development.
• Classes covering various aspects of belly dance technique, vocabulary, composition, music, and practice.
• Instruction tailored to diverse needs, including technique tune-ups, choreography building, finger cymbal combos, and specific conditioning.
• Opportunities for one-on-one coaching for intermediate, advanced, and professional dancers.
• Participation in certification events, such as those for FCBD®Style (formerly American Tribal Style) belly dance.
• Access to spacious studio facilities, including a large main studio, a separate studio with a ballet barre, and a photo studio.
• Amenities like locker rooms, changing rooms, and multiple bathrooms for student convenience.
• A commitment to creating a supportive and welcoming dance community, valuing all participants.
• Engagement with the history and cultural context of belly dance, promoting a deeper understanding of the art form.

Features / Highlights:

• Renowned Instructors and Founders: Datura is the home studio of Rachel Brice, a highly influential figure in the world of belly dance, particularly known for "Datura Style" and "The 8 Elements of Belly Dance." The quality of instruction is consistently praised, with teachers noted for being "always great."
• Expansive and Well-Equipped Studio Space: Customers frequently highlight the "very large studio" and excellent amenities, including locker rooms, changing rooms, and multiple bathrooms, which enhance the overall comfort and convenience of attending classes. Specific studios offer unique features like rainbow-lit walls, ballet barres, and significant mirror space.
• Comprehensive Online Platform: Datura Online provides a vast, growing library of hundreds of belly dance and conditioning videos, making high-quality instruction accessible globally and offering flexible learning options for those who can't attend in person or want to supplement their studio time.
• Inclusivity and Community Focus: The studio strongly emphasizes welcoming "everyone," regardless of age, body type, gender identity, or experience level. This commitment fosters a "supportive and welcoming dance community" where students feel comfortable and valued.
• Holistic Approach to Dance: Datura's methodology, particularly "The 8 Elements," aims for the "empowerment of the individual and a deeper understanding of dance-making," moving beyond mere steps to explore underlying structures, composition, and artistry.
• Diverse Styles and Training: While specializing in fusion belly dance (including Datura Style), the studio also offers classes in Raqs Sharqi (classic Egyptian belly dance) and cross-training (yoga, Pilates), providing a well-rounded dance education. They also host certification events for other styles like FCBD®Style.
• Inspiring Physical Environment: Located within a building known for its "stunning woodwork" and "huge windows," the physical space itself is described as "bohemian-cool" and "perfect," contributing to an engaging and inspiring atmosphere for dancers.
• Opportunity for Growth and Development: From beginner classes to advanced workshops, teacher training, and opportunities for detailed technique work, Datura supports continuous learning and progression for dancers at every stage.

Contact Information:

Address: 116 NE Russell St, Portland, OR 97212, USA

Phone: Not publicly available for the physical studio, but inquiries can be made via email.

Mobile Phone: Not publicly available for the physical studio, but inquiries can be made via email.

For locals in Oregon, especially those living in or near Portland, Datura represents an exceptional and highly suitable destination for anyone interested in belly dance and the broader spectrum of movement arts. Its prime location in Northeast Portland ensures easy accessibility, whether by car or public transit, making it convenient to integrate classes into a busy schedule.

What truly makes Datura ideal for Oregonians is its unique blend of world-class instruction and a deeply supportive community. Home to renowned figures like Rachel Brice, students here benefit from expert guidance and a meticulously crafted curriculum, ensuring high-quality learning whether they are pursuing dance for recreation or professional development. The studio's commitment to welcoming "everyone," regardless of background or experience, fosters an inclusive environment that resonates strongly with Portland's community-oriented values. This means beginners can feel comfortable taking their first steps, while experienced dancers can find challenging opportunities for growth.

Furthermore, the physical amenities—spacious studios, locker rooms, and multiple bathrooms—contribute significantly to a comfortable and professional learning experience. The "bohemian-cool" atmosphere of the studio itself, housed in a building with beautiful architectural details, adds to the overall inspiring environment. For those who may not be able to attend in-person, the robust Datura Online platform offers an invaluable resource, providing flexible access to classes from the comfort of one's home anywhere in Oregon. This comprehensive approach ensures that Datura can serve a wide range of local dance enthusiasts, making it a true treasure in Portland's vibrant arts scene for anyone looking to connect with their body and express themselves through dance.

Datura

116 NE Russell St, Portland, OR 97212, USA