Business Details
Your Home for Dance Education in Portland
The Portland Ballet has been dedicated to nurturing dancers of all ages and skill levels since our founding. Our comprehensive programs combine technical excellence with creative expression, offering structured training for children as young as three through advanced students preparing for professional careers. Led by industry professionals like renowned hip-hop instructor Nick Le-Jurica and experienced educator Diedre Jolley Smith, we provide diverse class options including ballet technique, creative movement, and community-focused sessions.Our curriculum emphasizes not just technical proficiency but also confidence-building and artistic development. With flexible enrollment options for both ongoing programs and drop-in classes, we strive to make dance education accessible and inclusive for all body types and abilities. Our commitment to quality instruction is reflected in our multi-session programming that runs throughout the year, ensuring continuous growth opportunities for our students.
Services
Ballet Technique Training
Hip-Hop Classes
Creative Movement
Adult Ballet
Community Dance
Drop-In Sessions
Youth Programs
Performance Prep
Parent-Child Classes
Confidence Building
Highlights and features
- Experienced instructors including renowned hip-hop artist Nick Le-Jurica
- Multi-level programs for ages 3 through adults with specialized curricula
- Year-round training with flexible 8-week session enrollment options
- Inclusive community classes accommodating all abilities and body types
- Free trial classes available for young dancers in our Creative Movement program
Services
Ballet Technique Training
Our year-round ballet program develops technical excellence through structured training. Students master foundational techniques while exploring artistic expression. Age-specific curricula ensure proper progression from beginner to advanced levels, preparing dancers for professional opportunities.
Hip-Hop Classes
Led by professional dancer Nick Le-Jurica, these energetic sessions blend rhythm and creativity. The Thursday night classes focus on strength development and coordination while maintaining a fun, welcoming environment for ages 8-14.
Creative Movement
Designed for ages 3-6, this program introduces dance fundamentals through playful exploration. Parent observation sessions help track progress while maintaining a joyful learning atmosphere that nurtures imagination and motor skills.
Adult Ballet
Beginner-friendly Sunday sessions provide accessible dance education for mature students. The 8-week courses focus on proper technique development at a comfortable pace, emphasizing posture, flexibility, and artistic expression.
Community Dance
Monday morning sessions welcome participants of all abilities with adaptive instruction. The first portion accommodates seated participation while offering standing options for those who prefer, promoting accessibility and community engagement.
People
Nick Le-Jurica
Hip-Hop Instructor
Professional dancer and choreographer with extensive industry experience, Nick brings high-energy instruction that combines technical precision with creative expression for youth hip-hop classes.
Diedre Jolley Smith
Community Class Instructor
Experienced dance educator specializing in inclusive movement instruction, Diedre leads adaptive community classes that welcome participants of all abilities and experience levels.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We offer programs for dancers aged 3 through adults, with specialized curricula for children, teens, and mature students.
Do you require prior dance experience?
No experience needed - our classes accommodate all skill levels from complete beginners to advanced dancers seeking technical refinement.
Are drop-in classes available?
Yes, Open Ballet sessions allow drop-in participation daily at 10:00am with flexible student and professional rate options.
How do I register for classes?
Contact us via phone at 503.452.8448 or email TPB for placement in our 2025-26 programs and session-based courses.
Do you offer family-friendly programs?
Our Creative Movement classes include parent observation sessions, and we provide age-appropriate instruction for children as young as three.
What dance styles do you teach?
Core offerings include classical ballet technique, hip-hop, and creative movement, with additional community-focused dance experiences.
