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Polaris Dance Theatre

5 ★★★★★ 7 Google reviews · Ballet school in Portland, Oregon

Adult classes Kids & teens Pointe Pre-professional

Plan your first class

  • Ages classes for age 5 — check the schedule for the right level for your dancer
  • Adult classes classes for grown-ups, including absolute beginners — it's never too late to start at the barre
  • Pointe pointe and pre-pointe work for dancers who are ready — the pre-pointe strengthening comes first
  • Pre-professional a serious, conservatory-style track for committed students aiming high
  • Recitals end-of-year performances and shows — ask about costume and performance fees when you enroll
  • Today see hours ·
  • Phone +1 503-380-5472
  • Website & schedule polarisdance.org — enroll and see the live class schedule

Hours

Monday 12–8:15 pm
Tuesday 10 am–7:15 pm
Wednesday 12–8:30 pm
Thursday 12–7:30 pm
Friday 12–7:30 pm
Saturday 10–11 am
Sunday Closed

Studio hours shift for holidays, recitals, and term schedules — worth a quick check before a special trip.

The programs they offer

Ballet programs on the schedule at Polaris Dance Theatre, confirmed in families' own reviews and the studio's own info — not guessed from the sign out front.

From the reviews

Took a drop in class with a friend today and it was a great starter class for someone who hasnt danced in 40 years. Mix of ballet, yoga stretching and contemporary dance... lots of fun!

★★★★★ — Jeanette, Jul 2017

Open morning class with the company at 9 AM for observers and dancers who want a class come on over. I got a good sweat from Robert the Director. He pushes you to your limit making you dance like nothing else matters

★★★★★ — Kayla, Aug 2018

We’ve had such wonderful experiences at Polaris. The staff can’t be beat. All of my girls have enjoyed classes and camps for years.

★★★★★ — Erin, Mar 2024

Awesome teachers and lots of wonderful classes to choose! First class all the way!

★★★★★ — Sal, Feb 2020

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 7 reviews →

Adult ballet at Polaris Dance Theatre

Polaris Dance Theatre runs classes for grown-ups — confirmed on their own site. If you've never taken ballet, or you're coming back to it after years away, this is for you — and a good studio genuinely welcomes a nervous first-timer. A few things worth asking before you go. First, which class to start in — look for one labeled "absolute beginner" or "adult beginner" rather than an open or "all levels" class, so you learn the fundamentals at the right pace. Second, drop-in or term — many adult programs let you pay per class to try it, then move to a term or monthly package once you're hooked. Third, what to wear — comfortable clothes you can move in, plus socks or bare feet, are plenty for a first class; you won't need a leotard or ballet shoes to walk in the door. It's never too late for first position.

Check adult classes on their site

Your first ballet class at Polaris Dance Theatre

Nervous about walking into your first class? Almost everyone is — and a good studio expects beginners, whether your dancer is five or you're returning at fifty. Here's what to know. What to wear: comfortable clothes you can move in, with socks or bare feet; a leotard and tights are nice if you have them, but not required, and pointe shoes are years down the road — never day one. What to expect: class usually starts at the barre with slow, simple movements to warm up, then moves to the center — follow along, copy the teacher, and don't worry about getting it "right" the first time. Arrive early: come 10–15 minutes ahead to change, find a spot, and let the teacher know it's a first class so they can keep an eye out. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.

Ballet is for every age and every body. If you're returning from an injury or have a health concern, mention it to the teacher before class so they can offer modifications.

Where to find Polaris Dance Theatre

1826-B, 1826 NW 18th Ave, Portland, OR97209

Get directions Instagram · Facebook

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Listing verified July 2026 from public business records and student reviews. Something out of date? Report a correction. Own this studio? Claim your listing — it's free.