Important Information for Classes:

  • Classes Subject to Change: Please note that class schedules are subject to change.
  • Waitlists Available: If a class is full, waitlists are available.
  • Level Placement: Level placement is at the discretion of the instructor.
  • Additional Considerations: Level placements consider both skill/technique requirements and emotional maturity.
  • Age Guidelines: Provided for general guidance only and do not guarantee placement in any specific class.

 

Tiny Tumblers (Ages 3-4)

  • Introduction to Acrobatics & Tumbling: Designed for our youngest dancers, this class focuses on developing fundamental acrobatic and tumbling skills. Students will learn basic movements, from following directions to simple hops and forward rolls, in a fun and supportive environment.

Tiny Dancers (Ages 3-4)

  • Introduction to Movement and Dance: Perfect for our tiniest twirlers, this class introduces young children to the joy of movement and dance. Through playful activities and creative exercises, dancers will explore rhythm, coordination, and expression while developing a love for dance.

Blooming Ballerinas (Ages 5-7)

  • Pre-Ballet Class: Our Blooming Ballerinas class introduces young dancers to the enchanting world of ballet. Designed for ages 5-7, this class focuses on learning basic ballet skills such as walking on their toes, graceful poses, and the art of the curtsy. Through imaginative exercises and music, students will develop coordination, balance, and a love for the elegance of ballet.

Tappin Tutus (Ages 5-7)

  • Introduction to Tap Dancing: Tappin Tutus is the perfect introduction to the world of tap for our young dancers aged 5-7. This class focuses on teaching basic tap steps with a playful twist, encouraging rhythmic expression and coordination through fun and engaging activities. Students will learn foundational techniques while exploring the joy of making music with their feet in a supportive and creative environment.

Jazzerinas (Ages 5-7)

  • Introduction to Jazz Dance: Jazzerinas introduces young dancers aged 5-7 to the dynamic world of Jazz dance. This class focuses on building a foundation in Jazz technique through playful and age-appropriate exercises. Students will learn basic Jazz movements, develop coordination, and explore rhythm and musicality in a fun and supportive environment. With an emphasis on creativity and expression, Jazzerinas encourages dancers to discover their own unique style while fostering a love for dance.

Mighty Kids (Ages 5-7)

  • Introduction to Acrobatics & Tumbling: Mighty Kids is an exciting introductory class designed for children aged 5-7 to discover the fundamentals of acrobatics and tumbling. In this class, young participants will learn basic acrobatic skills such as rolls, cartwheels, and balances in a safe and supportive environment. Through age-appropriate activities and guided instruction, students will develop coordination, strength, flexibility, and confidence while having fun exploring the thrilling world of acrobatics.

Acro Levels 1-5

  • Gymnastics-Based Tricks to Enrich Dance Skills: Our Acro program offers levels 1 through 5, designed to enhance dancers' abilities with gymnastics-based tricks. Throughout the year, students will progress through levels that include conditioning exercises tailored to prepare them for increasingly challenging tricks. The classes focus on developing flexibility, balance, strength, and coordination, essential for mastering both dance and acrobatic skills. Our experienced staff will assess each dancer's abilities and place them in the appropriate level to ensure optimal progress and safety.

Ballet Levels 1-4

  • Classical Dance Form with Grace and Precision: Ballet Levels 1-4 offers a comprehensive exploration of the classical ballet technique, renowned for its grace and precision of movement. Students will delve into the fundamentals of ballet, focusing on proper body alignment, French terminology, and musicality through both barre and center work. Ballet is widely regarded as the foundation of all dance forms, providing essential skills that enhance strength, flexibility, and artistic expression. Our experienced staff will assess each dancer's abilities and place them in the appropriate level to ensure continuous growth and mastery.

Jazz Levels 1-4

  • Fusion of Ballet, Modern, and Popular Dance: Jazz Levels 1-4 blends the technical foundations of ballet and modern dance with contemporary forms of popular dance. This dynamic style emphasizes strength, flexibility, conditioning, and technique progressions, including turns, kicks, jumps, and leaps. Jazz dance encompasses a wide range of characteristics and styles such as Broadway, commercial, lyrical, and street dance. Our knowledgeable staff will assess each dancer and place them in the appropriate level to ensure they receive tailored instruction for optimal growth and artistic development.

Contemporary Dance Levels 1-3

  • Exploration of Creative Movement: Contemporary Dance Levels 1-3 offers a space for dancers to explore and express themselves through innovative and fluid movement. Rooted in modern dance techniques, this class combines elements of ballet, jazz, and other dance forms to create a versatile and expressive style. Students will focus on developing strength, flexibility, and control while honing their ability to interpret music and emotions through movement. The class will include floor work, improvisation, and choreography that encourages individuality and personal expression. Our experienced instructors will place each dancer in the appropriate level based on their skills and experience, ensuring a supportive and challenging learning environment.

Hip Hop Levels 1-4

  • Urban Dance Style with High Energy: Hip Hop Levels 1-4 introduces students to the energetic and dynamic world of urban dance. Rooted in street dance styles and influenced by hip hop culture, this class focuses on developing rhythm, musicality, and individual style. Students will learn foundational hip hop movements, including isolations, grooves, and footwork, while exploring various techniques such as popping, locking, and breaking. The class will incorporate choreography that reflects current trends in hip hop and encourages creativity and self-expression. Our experienced instructors will place each dancer in the appropriate level based on their skills and experience, providing a supportive and engaging environment for learning and growth.

 

Tap Dance Levels 1-3

  • Rhythmic Expression through Footwork: Tap Dance Levels 1-3 introduces students to the joyous art of tap dancing, focusing on rhythm, musicality, and precision. This class explores the fundamentals of tap technique, including basic steps such as shuffles, flaps, and time steps. As students progress through levels, they will learn more intricate combinations and rhythms, enhancing their coordination and auditory awareness. Emphasis is placed on developing clear and crisp sounds through proper footwork and weight placement. The class will incorporate both traditional and contemporary tap styles, allowing students to explore different forms of tap dance expression. Our dedicated instructors will assess each dancer’s abilities and place them in the appropriate level to ensure they receive personalized instruction and support in their tap journey.

Musical Theatre 1-3

  • Explore the World of Broadway and Stage Performance: The Musical Theatre class offers an exciting exploration into the captivating world of Broadway and stage performance. Students will delve into acting, and dancing techniques, combining these disciplines to bring characters and stories to life on stage. Throughout the class, students will learn fundamental skills such as stage presence, character development, and choreography. They will also study various styles of musical theatre, from classic to contemporary, gaining insight into the rich history and evolving trends of this vibrant art form. Whether students dream of performing on Broadway or simply want to develop their skills and confidence in musical theatre, this class provides a supportive and creative environment where they can grow as performers and storytellers. Our experienced instructors will place each dancer in the appropriate level based on their skills and experience.

Pre-Pointe Class

  • Prepare for the Elegance of Pointe Work: The Pre-Pointe class is designed to prepare dancers for the beautiful and demanding art of dancing on pointe shoes. This class focuses on developing the strength, flexibility, and technique necessary for safe and successful pointe work. Students will engage in exercises that target foot and ankle strength, proper alignment, and core stability. Emphasis will also be placed on understanding the mechanics of pointe work and learning the importance of injury prevention. The class will include barre exercises and center work specifically tailored to build the foundational skills required for dancing en pointe. Our experienced instructors will guide and assess each student’s readiness for pointe work, ensuring they progress safely and confidently towards this milestone in their dance journey. Must be enrolled in Ballet 3-4

Technique Class

  • Refine Your Dance Foundation: The Technique Class is essential for dancers looking to refine their foundational skills and elevate their technique across various dance styles. This class focuses on improving technique, alignment, strength, flexibility, and musicality through structured exercises and drills. Students will engage in barre work, center combinations, and across-the-floor exercises designed to enhance their precision, control, and artistry. Emphasis is placed on proper body mechanics, alignment, and understanding of dance vocabulary and terminology. Whether preparing for performances or aiming to advance to higher levels of dance, this class provides a disciplined and supportive environment where dancers can refine their skills and achieve their fullest potential.

Choreography Combo Class

  • Dive into Diverse Dance Styles: In our Choreography Combo class, dancers embark on an exciting journey through various dance styles and choreographic techniques. This class focuses on learning choreography across different genres, including jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and more. Students will explore the art of dance composition, developing their skills in creating and performing dynamic routines. Throughout the sessions, dancers will learn about structure, musicality, and performance techniques essential for bringing choreography to life on stage. This class encourages creativity, teamwork, and self-expression, culminating in opportunities to showcase their choreographed pieces in a supportive and collaborative environment.

TEAM - NWDA's Performing Competition Team

  • Elevate Your Dance Journey to Competition Level: TEAM is NWDA's premier performing competition team, comprising dedicated dancers who aspire to take their dance skills to the next level. Members of TEAM participate in nationally recognized competitions in the Greater Portland area and beyond, showcasing their talent, passion, and hard work in front of esteemed judges and audiences. The team focuses on refining choreography, technique, stage presence, and teamwork, preparing diligently to excel in competitive dance settings. TEAM offers dancers a unique opportunity to grow artistically and personally through the exhilarating and rewarding experience of competitive dance. Join TEAM and embark on a journey of performance excellence, camaraderie, and memorable achievements in the dance community.

Announcement for 2024-2025 Season and Future Plans

We are pleased to announce that our 2024-2025 team has been selected. Information for the 2025-2026 season will be sent out in the spring of 2025. Stay tuned for exciting updates and opportunities ahead!