Chehalem Valley Dance Academy

- 822 SE 1st St, NOT ON, SW 2nd St, McMinnville, OR 97128

In the vibrant heart of McMinnville, Oregon, a place of movement, growth, and community thrives at the Chehalem Valley Dance Academy (CVDA). This is not your typical dance school; it's a dynamic sports complex and a welcoming community hub where the motto "dance skills are life skills" is lived out every day. Identifying as a women-owned business, CVDA is dedicated to providing high-quality dance training in an inclusive and family-friendly environment. From the youngest dancers just starting their journey to experienced performers, the academy offers a wide range of classes designed to build not only technical skills but also confidence, discipline, and compassion. For new and experienced dancers alike, CVDA is a place where every individual is empowered to become their best self, both on and off the dance floor. The instructors' passion for teaching and their commitment to the students' well-being create a unique and positive atmosphere that truly sets this studio apart.

The core of CVDA's philosophy is its belief that dance is a powerful vehicle for personal development. One glowing review from a parent states, "My daughter loves her dance classes and has made friends despite her being very shy." This is a perfect example of the academy's success in creating a supportive and nurturing environment. The instructors are not only talented dancers but are also described as "super awesome and fun," making the learning process enjoyable and effective. They understand that a timid five-year-old can come out of a beginner's ballet class with "her head held high and a smile from ear to ear," as another review points out. This focus on building self-confidence, along with discipline and perseverance, is what makes CVDA an excellent choice for parents seeking to provide their children with a positive and enriching after-school activity. The skills learned at CVDA, as many clients attest, are "way more than just dance related."

CVDA is deeply committed to being a safe and inclusive space for all. The studio proudly identifies as an LGBTQ+ friendly and Transgender safe space, with amenities such as gender-neutral toilets. These features reflect a business that is intentional about creating a welcoming and respectful environment for everyone who walks through its doors. The accessibility of the studio, with a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, further underscores this commitment to inclusivity. These thoughtful considerations ensure that all members of the community, regardless of their background or physical ability, can enjoy the benefits of dance. This dedication to virtue and community service is a significant part of the studio's identity, as they actively serve and fundraise for the community every year. When you choose CVDA, you are not just enrolling in a dance class; you are becoming a part of a community that values compassion, respect, and positive contribution.

The variety of services and programs offered at CVDA ensures that there is something for everyone. From a young age, dancers can explore various styles, from ballet to jazz, tap, and hip hop. The "Tiny Tumblers" program introduces youngsters to body awareness and basic tumbling skills, while older students can delve into lyrical, contemporary, and acrobatics. The studio's summer camps are a popular option, offering themed weeks for ages 3 and up, filled with dance, crafts, and fun. For more dedicated dancers, there are pre-professional and performing company opportunities, which, while maintaining high standards, do not subscribe to a high-pressure, "win at all costs" culture. Instead, the focus is on growth, teamwork, and learning from judges' feedback. The academy also offers free trial classes, making it easy for prospective students to get a feel for the environment before committing. This comprehensive approach to dance education, combined with a focus on life skills, makes CVDA a truly exceptional place for a child’s development.

In summary, Chehalem Valley Dance Academy is a cornerstone of the McMinnville community, a place where dance and life lessons go hand in hand. It’s a dynamic and inclusive sports complex that nurtures every student's potential, from their very first ballet class to advanced choreography. The academy's commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment is evident in its policies, amenities, and, most importantly, the glowing testimonials from its students and their families. This is a place where a shy child can find friends, where instructors are "super awesome and fun," and where the skills learned in the studio are directly applicable to building a better life. For anyone in the Oregon region looking for a dance school that offers not just excellent instruction but also a sense of family, community, and personal empowerment, Chehalem Valley Dance Academy is the clear choice. It is a place to find your rhythm and a home for life.

Location and Accessibility

The Chehalem Valley Dance Academy is conveniently located at 822 SE 1st St in McMinnville, OR 97128. Its accessible downtown location makes it a central hub for families in the Willamette Valley. The studio has a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, demonstrating its commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive space for all. Parking is easy and free of charge, with options for street parking, a parking lot, and on-site parking. This practical convenience is a major benefit for parents and students, ensuring a hassle-free experience from the moment they arrive. The studio recently expanded to a new space with a larger main studio, lobby, and dance retail shop, further enhancing the experience for its community members.

Services Offered

• Ballet Classes: From beginners to advanced, with a focus on correct technique and body alignment.
• Jazz, Tap, and Hip Hop: A variety of styles offered for all ages, from preschoolers to teens and adults.
• Acrobatics/Gymnastics: Classes designed to build strength, stamina, and basic tumbling skills.
• Lyrical/Contemporary: Classes that develop expressive and emotional dance styles.
• Summer Camps: Themed summer camps for different age groups, blending dance, crafts, and fun.
• On-site services: Providing a professional and dedicated space for all classes and rehearsals.

Features / Highlights

• Identifies as a women-owned business, promoting female leadership and entrepreneurship.
• Proudly an LGBTQ+ friendly and Transgender safe space, with gender-neutral toilets.
• Offers key accessibility features, including a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance.
• Accepts credit card payments for convenience.
• Considered "good for kids," with a focus on building confidence and life skills beyond dance.
• Multiple free parking options available, including on-site and street parking.
• Offers a free trial class for new students to experience the studio firsthand.

Contact Information

Address: 822 SE 1st St, McMinnville, OR 97128, USA

Phone: (503) 537-3902

What is worth choosing

For families in the Oregon region, choosing Chehalem Valley Dance Academy is an investment in a child’s future, far beyond the confines of a dance studio. What truly makes CVDA a standout choice is its powerful philosophy: "dance skills are life skills." The testimonials from parents who have witnessed their shy children blossom into confident individuals are the most compelling evidence of this. The instructors are not just teachers; they are mentors who are committed to the personal growth of every student. This level of dedication, combined with a professional and fun approach, creates an environment where children thrive. The academy's strong commitment to inclusivity is another key differentiator. As an LGBTQ+ friendly and Transgender safe space with wheelchair-accessible facilities, CVDA makes it clear that everyone is welcome and valued. This is a place where you can feel secure knowing that your child is in a respectful and caring environment. The wide range of classes, from ballet to hip hop and summer camps, ensures that every dancer, no matter their age or interest, can find a place to belong. The convenience of multiple free parking options and the acceptance of credit cards also make the experience stress-free for busy families. By choosing CVDA, you are supporting a women-owned business that is a pillar of virtue in the community, actively teaching respect, confidence, and community service. It’s an easy decision for anyone seeking a dance studio that is not only excellent in its craft but also exemplary in its values.

Chehalem Valley Dance Academy

822 SE 1st St, NOT ON, SW 2nd St, McMinnville, OR 97128, USA