Business Details
37 Years
experience
Experience World-Class Ballet in Portland
Oregon Ballet Theatre has been a cornerstone of artistic excellence and community engagement in Oregon since 1989. Our mission centers on inspiring the dancer in everyone through the transformative power of movement, offering world-class performances that celebrate ballet's enduring traditions while embracing innovative storytelling. Under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director Dani Rowe, we cultivate a dynamic environment where professional dancers, students, and audiences connect through shared artistic experiences. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond the stage through comprehensive training programs at OBT School, which has nurtured generations of dancers for over 35 years.We prioritize inclusivity and accessibility, demonstrated through initiatives like awarding $90,000 in scholarships annually to talented students. As a cultural anchor in Portland's vibrant arts scene, we collaborate with renowned instructors and guest artists to maintain our position as a premier ballet institution in the Pacific Northwest. Our core values of courage, creativity, and fiscal responsibility ensure we remain a sustainable resource for future generations of dance enthusiasts.
Services
Ballet performances
Dance education
Community programs
Professional training
Seasonal productions
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of excellence in ballet performance and education
- World-renowned instructors and guest artists mentor students
- Inclusive programs serving diverse communities across the Pacific Northwest
- Award-winning productions combining tradition with contemporary innovation
- $90,000 in scholarships awarded annually to talented students
Services
Ballet performances
Oregon Ballet Theatre presents classical and contemporary ballet productions throughout the year at premier venues across Portland. Our season includes iconic works like The Nutcracker and original contemporary pieces that showcase our company's artistic range. Each production combines technical excellence with innovative storytelling to create memorable experiences for audiences of all ages.
Dance education
OBT School offers comprehensive ballet education from beginner to professional levels, with a faculty of renowned instructors. Our curriculum combines traditional techniques with modern approaches, preparing students for professional careers while fostering lifelong appreciation for dance. The school awarded $90,000 in scholarships in 2024 to support talented students.
Community programs
We provide in-school residencies, educational outreach programs, and accessible performances that bring ballet to diverse communities across the Pacific Northwest. These initiatives aim to make dance education and appreciation available to all, regardless of background or financial means, through partnerships with local schools and organizations.
Professional training
OBT2 and our Trainee Program develop emerging artists through mentorship with company dancers and guest instructors. This intensive training program prepares students for professional careers while offering performance opportunities with our main company, creating a clear pathway from education to professional ballet performance.
Seasonal productions
Our annual season features major productions like Dracula, The Nutcracker, and The Sleeping Beauty at Portland's premier venues. These fully staged performances combine elaborate sets, professional dancers, and community engagement elements to create immersive experiences that celebrate both traditional and contemporary ballet artistry.
People
Dani Rowe
Artistic Director
Award-winning choreographer and former principal dancer Dani Rowe leads Oregon Ballet Theatre as Artistic Director, bringing international experience and innovative vision to our productions and training programs.
Dominic Walsh
OBT2 Director
Renowned dance educator Dominic Walsh oversees our pre-professional division, mentoring emerging artists through OBT2 and the Trainee Program while maintaining strong connections to the professional dance world.
Enrique Carren-Robledo
Maestro
Celebrated conductor Enrique Carren-Robledo joined Oregon Ballet Theatre as Maestro, bringing decades of orchestral experience to enhance our productions with live musical accompaniment for performances.
Questions
How do I purchase tickets for Oregon Ballet Theatre performances?
Tickets are available through our official website for all productions at Keller Auditorium, Newmark Theatre, and Patricia Reser Center for the Arts.
What educational programs does OBT offer for aspiring dancers?
OBT School provides comprehensive training from beginner to professional levels, including the OBT2 pre-professional division and Trainee Program under expert instructors.
Does Oregon Ballet Theatre offer community outreach programs?
We provide in-school residencies, educational outreach programs, and need-based scholarships to make ballet accessible to diverse communities across Oregon.
What is the history of Oregon Ballet Theatre?
Founded in 1989, we've become Portland's premier ballet company, combining classical traditions with innovative productions while training dancers for 35+ years.
How can I support Oregon Ballet Theatre's mission?
Supporters can donate directly, join our membership program, or contribute to specific initiatives like our scholarship fund that awarded $90,000 in 2024.
