Business Details
22 Years
experience
Premier Dance Training in Portland, OR
Classical Ballet Academy was founded in 2004 to provide rigorous dance education rooted in classical ballet and complementary styles. Our mission focuses on educating, inspiring, and transforming dancers of all ages through disciplined training and performance opportunities. We emphasize the dual importance of mental and physical development, fostering discipline and strength in every student. Our annual productions, including full-length ballets, showcase the talents of all participants while promoting artistic growth. We maintain a commitment to fairness, equity, and inclusion across diverse identities, ensuring accessibility for dancers of all backgrounds.With experienced instructors and structured curricula, we guide students from introductory levels to advanced performance training. Our programs integrate technical skill development with creative expression, preparing dancers for both personal and professional growth. The academys inclusive philosophy extends to adaptive dance classes and community engagement initiatives. Through consistent training and performance participation, students develop lifelong appreciation for the art form. Our administrative team and faculty work collaboratively to maintain high educational standards while supporting individual student needs.
Services
Ballet
Contemporary
Modern
Jazz
Hip Hop
Pilates
Character Dance
Inclusive Dance
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- Founded in 2004 with experienced, certified instructors
- Offers inclusive dance programs for all skill levels and backgrounds
- Produces annual full-length ballet performances
- Maintains strict technical training standards with creative expression
- Provides adaptive dance classes for diverse needs
What people say
Experienced instructors
Inclusive environment
Quality performances
Structured curriculum
Dedicated staff
Services
Ballet Training
Our ballet program develops technical proficiency through structured training from beginner to advanced levels. Students master foundational techniques while exploring artistic expression through performance opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes proper alignment, musicality, and classical repertoire.
Inclusive Dance
Designed for diverse learners, this program offers modified dance instruction accommodating various physical and cognitive needs. Certified instructors create accessible environments where all participants develop movement skills and performance confidence.
Character Dance
This specialty class teaches traditional folk dances adapted for stage performance. Students learn culturally specific movements while developing performance quality and historical context understanding for theatrical productions.
Adult Drop-In
Flexible ballet classes for adult learners focus on technical improvement and physical fitness. Sessions accommodate varying skill levels while maintaining professional training standards in a supportive environment.
Performance Programs
Annual productions provide practical performance experience across multiple genres. Dancers develop stagecraft skills while participating in full-length ballets and contemporary showcases for public audiences.
People
Sarah Rigles
Director
Sarah Rigles leads Classical Ballet Academy with over 15 years of professional dance experience. She oversees curriculum development and artistic direction while maintaining teaching responsibilities for advanced students.
Sophia Beadie
Ballet Instructor
Sophia Beadie teaches ballet and contemporary classes with a focus on technical precision. She brings professional performance experience to her instruction, emphasizing proper alignment and artistic expression.
Tracie Erlandson
Marketing Manager
Tracie Erlandson manages marketing initiatives and event coordination. Her background in dance performance informs strategic outreach efforts to expand community engagement and program visibility.
Lindsay Lichtenwalter
Director of Administration
Lindsay Lichtenwalter oversees daily operations and student services. With extensive dance education experience, she ensures smooth administrative functions while maintaining student and parent support systems.
Kellie Grunde
Administrative Assistant
Kellie Grunde provides essential administrative support with attention to student registration and scheduling. Her organizational skills contribute to efficient operations across the academy's multiple programs.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We provide classical ballet, contemporary, modern, jazz, hip hop, character dance, and inclusive dance programs for ages 2.5 through adulthood.
Are adult classes available?
Yes, we offer adult drop-in ballet classes with flexible participation options for recreational and experienced dancers.
What performance opportunities exist?
Annual productions include The Nutcracker, Winter Concert, Spring Ballet, and specialized showcases for different skill levels and age groups.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, specific attire requirements apply by class type. Details are available on our website with options for different dance styles and age groups.
How do I register for classes?
Online registration opens annually in September. New students pay a one-time $25 fee with monthly tuition payments from September through May.
Do you offer adaptive dance programs?
Our Inclusive Dance program provides modified instruction for diverse learners with specialized teaching approaches and accessible environments.
Reviews (3)
A. Kite Called Thief
Nov 20, 2021
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The teachers work us very hard and they get results, while at the same time, creating a friendly environment where it is easy to feel loved.
Makena Canon
Aug 22, 2021
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CBA is like a second home to me. They have taught me so much and I truly cannot thank them enough. The teachers are so kind and helpful, and the students are all amazing people, dancers, and great inspirations. I am so grateful to everyone there, they made me who I am today. I highly recommend CBA to anyone who loves to dance, learn, and has goals to do professional dancing. Thank you, CBA!
Clio Tzetos
Jul 28, 2018
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This studio is amazing! You are not only dancing in an incredibly supportive environment, but you are also receiving incredible technique training!
