Youth Dance Program
NW Dance Project Creative Center, 211 NE 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97232
About
The Youth Dance Program includes ballet, contemporary, jazz, Broadway jazz, pre-pointe, pointe, strength & stretch, and creative movement classes. Students may choose to train in individual styles, and annual registration is required with no drop-ins allowed. Throughout the year, aspiring young dance artists have two performance opportunities in the Winter Showcase and the Student Artist Showcase.
• Ages: 4–18 years old
• Schedule: Annual program from September 15, 2025 to June 7, 2026, with seasonal breaks and special events during the year
• Price: Students will train in ballet and contemporary classes at a cost effective tuition rate; payment plan available
The Youth Dance Program offers exceptional year-round training for dancers ages 4 to 18 and is taught by Portland’s finest teachers in professional dance studios. The program includes a Junior Track (Primary Ballet to Level 4) for ages 6 to 16 and a Pro Track for ages 13 to 18 that provides preparation for entry into leading companies, conservatories, and colleges. The Young Creatives Company is by audition only, requires enrollment in Pro Track, and focuses on immersing dancers in the creative choreographic process, repertoire, and performance experience. The program follows a philosophy that focuses on technique, movement, strengthening and conditioning, versatility, and creativity, with an in-depth approach to training that considers each individual dancer’s needs and progression in a supportive, inclusive, and encouraging environment. Studio policies, dress code, and tips for a first class are provided.
NW Dance Project was founded in Portland in 2004 by acclaimed dancer, mentor, and choreographer Sarah Slipper. NW Dance Project celebrates, supports, and represents excellence in dance and is dedicated to creating and performing original contemporary dance works from choreographers around the world while providing dance training for all. The organization is described as an award-winning, bold, and innovative contemporary dance company with an international reputation for cultivating and nurturing young dancers. It is described as “changing the way dance is created,” “an essential part of the city’s arts scene,” and “the it company...one of the most dynamic dance troupes in the country.” NW Dance Project is committed to advancing dance education and community involvement through accessible performances, studio sessions, outdoor performances, special events, master classes, collaborations with other artists, conversations with artists, cost-free Dance Moves programs for young, challenged community members, and free public performances.
Last updated June 29, 2026.
• Ages: 4–18 years old
• Schedule: Annual program from September 15, 2025 to June 7, 2026, with seasonal breaks and special events during the year
• Price: Students will train in ballet and contemporary classes at a cost effective tuition rate; payment plan available
The Youth Dance Program offers exceptional year-round training for dancers ages 4 to 18 and is taught by Portland’s finest teachers in professional dance studios. The program includes a Junior Track (Primary Ballet to Level 4) for ages 6 to 16 and a Pro Track for ages 13 to 18 that provides preparation for entry into leading companies, conservatories, and colleges. The Young Creatives Company is by audition only, requires enrollment in Pro Track, and focuses on immersing dancers in the creative choreographic process, repertoire, and performance experience. The program follows a philosophy that focuses on technique, movement, strengthening and conditioning, versatility, and creativity, with an in-depth approach to training that considers each individual dancer’s needs and progression in a supportive, inclusive, and encouraging environment. Studio policies, dress code, and tips for a first class are provided.
NW Dance Project was founded in Portland in 2004 by acclaimed dancer, mentor, and choreographer Sarah Slipper. NW Dance Project celebrates, supports, and represents excellence in dance and is dedicated to creating and performing original contemporary dance works from choreographers around the world while providing dance training for all. The organization is described as an award-winning, bold, and innovative contemporary dance company with an international reputation for cultivating and nurturing young dancers. It is described as “changing the way dance is created,” “an essential part of the city’s arts scene,” and “the it company...one of the most dynamic dance troupes in the country.” NW Dance Project is committed to advancing dance education and community involvement through accessible performances, studio sessions, outdoor performances, special events, master classes, collaborations with other artists, conversations with artists, cost-free Dance Moves programs for young, challenged community members, and free public performances.
Last updated June 29, 2026.
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