Business Details
19 Years
experience
Professional Dance Training in Oregon City
Since 2007, Abernethy Performing Arts has been dedicated to providing comprehensive dance education rooted in ballet while fostering discipline and self-esteem in students of all ages. Our Oregon City-based studio combines rigorous technical training with creative expression, offering classes in ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap, and musical theater for ages 2.5 to adult. We prioritize creating a welcoming environment where students develop not only as dancers but as confident individuals through performance opportunities and community engagement. Our curriculum spans eight ballet levels, complemented by specialty classes that enhance strength, flexibility, and artistic growth. With a faculty of experienced professionals, including director Keith Walls who brings decades of training and performance experience, we emphasize both technical excellence and personal development.Our commitment to accessibility ensures students receive tailored guidance regardless of their career aspirations, whether pursuing professional dance or seeking creative enrichment. We maintain strict dress codes and structured class recommendations to optimize learning outcomes while keeping tuition transparent and accessible. Through annual productions, competitions, and community outreach, we strive to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts. Our family-owned operation treats every student as part of our extended family, ensuring personalized attention and a supportive atmosphere. This dedication to quality education and holistic growth has made us a trusted institution in the Portland Metro area for over 16 years.
Services
Ballet Classes
Jazz Dance
Contemporary Dance
Tap Classes
Musical Theater
Summer Programs
Adult Dance
Competitive Teams
Preschool Dance
Performance Training
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We offer 16+ years of proven dance education expertise in Oregon City
- Our faculty includes internationally trained instructors with professional performance backgrounds
- We provide structured 8-level ballet curriculum with clear progression guidelines
- We combine technical training with creative expression and character development
- We maintain small class sizes for personalized attention and growth
What people say
Exceptional instructors
Structured progression
Supportive community
Professional training
Creative environment
Services
Ballet Classes
Our comprehensive ballet program includes eight progressive levels for ages 7-18+, with specialized tracks for adults and preschoolers. Students receive technical instruction in Russian, American, French, and Danish styles while developing performance skills through annual productions. The curriculum emphasizes proper technique, pointe work, and artistic expression for both recreational and competitive dancers.
Summer Programs
We offer intensive summer training including ballet intensives, preschool camps, and evening classes for all skill levels. These programs provide focused instruction in a condensed timeframe with guest instructors and performance preparation. Limited enrollment ensures personalized attention while building technical proficiency and artistic growth during the summer months.
Musical Theater
Our musical theater classes combine dance technique with acting and character development through Broadway-style repertoire. Students learn to integrate movement with storytelling while developing stage presence and vocal expression. The program prepares performers for theatrical productions and competitions with training in choreography, improvisation, and stagecraft fundamentals.
Adult Dance
Designed for mature participants, our adult dance program includes beginner ballet and fitness-focused classes that improve flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular health. The 'Never Stop Moving' program offers low-impact cardio, resistance training, and stretching tailored to active seniors while maintaining the artistic elements of dance education.
Competitive Teams
The Elite Program provides advanced training for dancers pursuing competition opportunities. Participants receive specialized coaching in multiple dance styles, choreography development, and performance preparation. This program builds technical excellence, stage confidence, and competitive readiness through annual participation in regional and national dance competitions.
People
Keith Walls
Studio Director
Founder and director with 16+ years of experience, trained by Joffrey Ballet professionals and Russian masters. Former performer in New York City and Portland with extensive choreography and production experience.
Christine Wright
Instructor
Teaching since 2013 after training at Kunzman School of Ballet and attending summer intensives. Specializes in early childhood dance education and pre-ballet instruction.
Bernadette LaMarsh
Instructor
Oregon native with professional experience at Portland Ballet and City Ballet of San Diego. Trained at Oregon Ballet Theatre and multiple summer intensives across the US.
Emma Neighorn
Instructor
Teaching since 2017 with competition experience at YAGP. Currently pursuing Early Childhood Development degree while instructing preschool dance programs.
Mya Spangler
Instructor
Returning instructor with professional experience at Joffrey School of Ballet. Teaches beginning musical theater while pursuing accounting studies and assisting in youth classes.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We provide ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap, musical theater, and acting/improv classes for ages 2.5 to adult with specialized programs for competitive dancers.
Do you have adult dance classes?
Yes, we offer beginning ballet and fitness-focused classes for teens and adults, including our 'Never Stop Moving' program for active seniors.
What are your class requirements?
Ballet classes require specific leotard colors, tights, and ballet slippers. Other classes need solid attire with hair secured. Starter packs available for purchase.
How do I register for classes?
Register through our online Studio Director portal or contact us directly. Summer programs and fall enrollment have early registration recommendations due to limited capacity.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes, we offer annual productions, traveling troupes, and competition opportunities through our Elite Program with both professional and recreational performance settings.
What is your teaching philosophy?
We combine technical excellence with character development, emphasizing discipline, self-esteem, and artistic growth in a supportive environment that values both individual progress and community engagement.
