A-WOL Dance Collective

- 513 NE Schuyler St, Portland, OR 97212

Welcome to A-WOL Dance Collective, a premier aerial arts organization and performing arts group in Portland, Oregon. Standing for "Aerial Without Limits," A-WOL is a non-profit company that has been a foundational part of the local arts scene since 2003. It's a truly unique space that defies conventional expectations, blending the worlds of dance, acrobatics, and circus arts to create a breathtaking and empowering experience. This women-owned business is dedicated to not only presenting world-class performances but also to providing a welcoming, educational environment for people of all ages to learn and grow. Whether you're a curious beginner looking for a new way to stay active or a seasoned performer aiming to refine your skills, A-WOL offers a supportive and inspiring community.

The collective’s mission is to "embody the notion of 'aerial without limits' through presentation of world class performances and educational opportunities that defy expectation, ignite inspiration and foster creativity." This philosophy is evident in every class and every performance. A-WOL’s professional company is known for its incredible artistry, often performing in unexpected settings like the local forests in West Linn for their signature show, "Art in the Dark." For students, this means learning from and training alongside dedicated professionals who are passionate about their craft. A glowing review from a long-time student perfectly captures the essence of the place: "I have been taking classes at AWOL for 2 years now. The coaches are really great! The inside gym is kept clean and tidy all year round. In the summer they have a silks class in the park! This place is a wonderful community of people who enjoy circus arts. Highly recommend catching any performance or show they offer, you will be highly impressed and entertained!"

A-WOL Dance Collective is conveniently located at 513 NE Schuyler St, Portland, OR 97212. Situated in the city's vibrant Northeast neighborhood, the studio is easily accessible from various parts of the Portland metropolitan area. For those arriving by car, the studio provides a wheelchair-accessible car park, which is a significant convenience. The entrance, seating, and toilets are also wheelchair-accessible, ensuring that A-WOL is a welcoming and inclusive space for people of all physical abilities. The studio also proudly identifies as LGBTQ+ friendly, further demonstrating its commitment to being a safe and accepting environment for everyone.

The physical space itself is a key highlight. The gym is consistently described as clean and tidy, and is a well-maintained environment perfect for training. The facilities are designed to support a wide range of aerial and circus arts, with professional rigging and safety equipment in place. This attention to detail ensures that all classes, from beginner to advanced, are conducted with the highest standards of safety in mind. This thoughtful accessibility and welcoming atmosphere make A-WOL a unique and valuable resource in the Oregon community.

A-WOL Dance Collective offers a diverse range of services, catering to both aspiring students and seasoned performers. The organization is divided into a professional company and an educational program for all ages.

• Adult Classes: The adult program includes a variety of classes for all skill levels. For beginners, there are "Level 1 Classes" that cover the fundamentals of aerial silks, trapeze, and other apparatuses. More experienced students can enroll in "Intermediate classes" and advanced "Skills Classes" that build on foundational techniques.

• Youth Program & Summer Camps: A-WOL is a great place for kids, offering a dedicated Youth Program that teaches circus arts and dance to children and teens. They also host popular "Youth Summer Camps," providing a fun and active way for kids to stay engaged during the break.

• Training Programs: For those serious about their training, A-WOL has a professional training program called "FlyCo" and a youth training company called "Aeros." These programs provide intensive, advanced instruction for individuals looking to pursue a career in the circus arts.

• Open Gym: The studio offers "Open Gym" sessions, which provide students with the freedom to practice their skills and work on personal projects in a supervised environment, outside of scheduled classes. This feature is particularly appreciated by dedicated aerialists who want more time on their apparatus.

• Specialized Services: In addition to regular classes, A-WOL provides "Private Lessons," "Choreography classes," and "Performance Training." These services are perfect for those preparing for a show, an audition, or who simply want one-on-one attention from a coach.

• Live Performances: A-WOL’s professional company puts on incredible shows throughout the year, including its renowned "Art in the Dark" production. These performances showcase the immense talent of the collective and are a must-see for anyone interested in the performing arts.

A-WOL Dance Collective's features and highlights make it a standout institution in the Portland metro area.

• Strong Community: Reviews consistently mention the "wonderful community of people who enjoy circus arts" at A-WOL. The supportive environment fostered by both teachers and students is a major highlight, making it a comfortable place to learn and make friends.

• Women-Owned and Inclusive: As a women-owned business that is also LGBTQ+ friendly, A-WOL is a safe and empowering space for a diverse range of individuals to feel seen and celebrated.

• Professional and Experienced Coaches: The instructors are highly skilled and passionate. As one customer noted, the coaches are "really great" and provide "quality of training," ensuring that students are not only learning new skills but doing so safely and effectively.

• Unique Performance Opportunities: The collective's professional company and training programs provide unique opportunities for students and audiences to engage with circus arts in a dynamic way, from traditional indoor shows to innovative outdoor performances.

• Accessibility: The wheelchair-accessible facilities demonstrate a genuine commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that people of all abilities can participate in the joy of aerial and circus arts.

For more information on class schedules, upcoming performances, or to book a private event, you can contact A-WOL Dance Collective.

Address: 513 NE Schuyler St, Portland, OR 97212, USA

Phone: (503) 351-5182

What is worth choosing A-WOL Dance Collective is the exceptional blend of professional artistry and a deeply rooted community spirit. It's a place where you can challenge your body and mind in a fun and exciting way, all while being supported by a group of passionate and talented people. The focus on high-quality training, safety, and community makes it a much more fulfilling experience than a typical gym. Whether your goal is to get in shape, find a new hobby, or even train for a career in the circus, A-WOL provides a path to "aerial without limits." The friendly, knowledgeable staff and the welcoming atmosphere make it an easy choice for anyone in the Oregon area looking for a truly transformative and engaging fitness and arts experience.

A-WOL Dance Collective

513 NE Schuyler St, Portland, OR 97212, USA