NW Dance Project

For anyone in Portland, Oregon, with a passion for movement, whether you're taking your very first dance steps or are a seasoned professional, NW Dance Project stands as an unparalleled institution. Founded in 2004 by acclaimed dancer, mentor, and choreographer Sarah Slipper, this non-profit organization has become a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest's contemporary dance scene. NW Dance Project is dedicated to celebrating, supporting, and representing excellence in dance, not only through the creation and performance of innovative, original contemporary dance works but also by providing the finest dance training available for all. It's a place where artistic brilliance meets a warm, encouraging community, inviting everyone to discover the joy and power of dance right here in our Oregon backyard.

At its core, NW Dance Project believes that dance is for everybody and every body. This philosophy is deeply embedded in their mission to perform, educate, create, cultivate, and champion diversity, equity, and inclusion, all while engaging and deepening public appreciation and support of dance. They are known for commissioning over 300 new contemporary dance works, premiering them in Portland before touring nationally and internationally. This commitment to new creation, combined with their dedication to offering exceptional training across various styles, makes NW Dance Project a dynamic and vital part of Portland’s arts and culture landscape. Locals consistently highlight the amazing teachers, supportive environment, and beautiful facilities as reasons why they love taking classes and being part of this vibrant community.

NW Dance Project's Creative Center is strategically located at 211 NE 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97232, USA. This prime address places it in the heart of the bustling Central Eastside Industrial District of Northeast Portland. This area is known for its blend of historic warehouses and modern developments, making it a highly accessible and central location for residents across the Portland metropolitan area and beyond.

For those traveling by car, street parking is generally available in the surrounding blocks, though as with any urban area, it's always advisable to allow extra time to find a spot. The studio is well-served by Portland's comprehensive public transportation system, TriMet. Numerous bus lines operate frequently along major thoroughfares like NE Burnside Street and NE MLK Jr. Boulevard, both within easy walking distance of the studio. Additionally, the Portland Streetcar's Central Loop (CL Line) has stops conveniently located nearby, offering another excellent option for commuters. This robust public transit access, coupled with the studio's central location, makes NW Dance Project a highly convenient destination for dance enthusiasts from all corners of Oregon looking for professional training or recreational classes. The facility itself, converted from a 1947 warehouse, boasts "fab" studios with "lots of light and space," enhancing the overall experience.

Services Offered:

• A wide variety of dance classes for adults of all levels, from "Absolute Beginning" to "Intermediate" and "Advanced."
• Diverse class styles including Ballet (Absolute Beginning Level 1 & 2, Beginning, Beginning/Intermediate), Jazz, Contemporary Jazz, Broadway Jazz, and "Rock Your Body" (a fusion of stylized jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, salsa, afro-funk, and body sculpting).
• Training focused on fundamental techniques, placement, balance, posture, coordination, musicality, and alignment.
• Classes designed to improve technique, flexibility, stamina, and artistry.
• Opportunities to learn choreography and explore freedom within contemporary movement.
• Professional development opportunities for aspiring and established dancers.
• Creation and premiere of new contemporary dance works by acclaimed choreographers from around the world.
• Performances by the award-winning NW Dance Project company in Portland annually, and on regional, national, and international tours.
• Educational and outreach programs, including "Dance Moves," which partners with local community organizations to bring dance to disadvantaged and at-risk youth.
• Cost-free arts engagement and access programs designed to make dance available to all members of the community.
• Special programs and mentoring opportunities for rising and aspiring dance artists.
• Professional training centers and a laboratory for choreographers to research and experiment.
• Opportunities for dancers and directors to present new, emerging, and established dance works.
• Commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment, actively promoting diversity.

Features / Highlights:

• World-Class Instructors: NW Dance Project boasts "amazing" teachers, including highly skilled professionals like Gabriela Ganney Smith, who are praised for making students feel "welcome" and offering "lots of encouragement" without judgment. Their expertise helps students "grow to love dancing" and improve balance and flexibility.
• Beautiful and Spacious Studios: The facilities are described as "fab" with "lots of light and space," providing an inspiring and comfortable environment for dance practice. The Creative Center, a converted warehouse, offers two large studios with sprung floors, enhancing the safety and quality of training.
• Inclusivity and Encouragement: A core value of NW Dance Project is making dance accessible and welcoming to "everybody and every body." This is evident in their no-judgment, no-attitude approach, fostering a supportive atmosphere for dancers of all levels and backgrounds.
• Focus on New Choreographic Creation: The organization is unique in its dedication to commissioning and premiering a significant number of new contemporary dance works (over 300 to date), establishing Portland as a hub for innovative dance.
• Professional Dance Company: The presence of a resident award-winning dance company provides a high standard of artistry and offers aspirational opportunities for students, while enriching the local arts scene with regular performances.
• Diverse Class Offerings for Adults: From "Absolute Beginning Ballet" for those with no prior experience to advanced contemporary jazz, there are classes to suit a wide range of interests and skill levels, encouraging continuous learning and movement.
• Community Outreach and Accessibility Initiatives: Programs like "Dance Moves" and "Arts for All" ticketing demonstrate a strong commitment to serving the wider community and ensuring dance is accessible regardless of socioeconomic status or background.

Contact Information:

Address: 211 NE 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97232, USA

Phone: (503) 421-7434 (Creative Center + Studio)

Mobile Phone: +1 503-421-7434

Ticket Line: (503) 828-8285

Mailing Address: PO Box 42488, Portland, OR 97242

Email: info@nwdanceproject.org

For locals throughout the Oregon region, especially those in the Portland metropolitan area, NW Dance Project stands as an exemplary destination for dance education and appreciation. Its central location in NE Portland offers convenient access, making it easy for residents to participate in classes or attend performances, whether commuting by car, bus, or Streetcar.

What truly makes NW Dance Project suitable for Oregonians is its unique blend of world-class artistic excellence and a profoundly inclusive, nurturing environment. The glowing reviews from customers consistently highlight the "amazing" teachers who offer "lots of encouragement" and create a space with "no judgment or attitude." This welcoming atmosphere is crucial for anyone looking to try dance, return after a long break, or deepen their existing practice. The emphasis on individual growth and the joy of movement, rather than just technical perfection, fosters a positive and sustainable relationship with dance.

Furthermore, the organization's commitment to community accessibility, through programs like "Dance Moves" and affordable ticketing options, ensures that the transformative power of dance is available to a broader segment of our population. The opportunity to learn from highly skilled professionals in beautiful, spacious studios, coupled with the inspiration of a resident award-winning company creating new works, provides a truly comprehensive and enriching experience. For anyone in Oregon looking to explore contemporary dance, improve their balance and flexibility, or simply find a joyful way to move and connect with a supportive community, NW Dance Project is an invaluable local treasure that truly "awakens the heart and enhances our humanity."

NW Dance Project

211 NE 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97232, USA