Eugene Modern Dance

- 5185 Nectar Way, Eugene, OR 97405

In the heart of Eugene, Oregon, lies a truly unique training center dedicated to the art of movement and the well-being of the human body: Eugene Modern Dance. This isn't your typical, high-pressure dance studio. Instead, it is a welcoming sanctuary for adults of all ages—from their 20s to their 65s and beyond—who seek a place to explore, express, and connect through dance. Founded and directed by the highly experienced and celebrated Peggy Soomil, the studio's philosophy is rooted in the belief that dance is a lifelong journey, a source of joy and health for both the body and mind. The classes and workshops are designed to be uplifting, safe, and entirely non-competitive, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional, youth-focused dance schools.

Eugene Modern Dance stands out for its personalized approach to instruction. With a focus on small class sizes, each student receives individual attention and guidance, ensuring a tailored experience that meets their unique needs and goals. The studio's guiding principles are to "start where you are" and "continue to where you will be," which makes it an ideal place for absolute beginners or those returning to dance after a long hiatus. The training center also provides a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals recovering from injury or trauma, or those living with chronic conditions. The adaptability of the classes and the focus on safe, healthy movement techniques make it a hub for healing as well as artistic expression. It's a place where you can feel confident and supported as you work to improve strength, flexibility, coordination, and rhythm. The ultimate mission of the studio, as stated by Peggy Soomil herself, is to "provide a center for dance, creativity, and healing" and to share the space with other like-minded individuals, fostering a community that values both the performing and healing arts.

Eugene Modern Dance is conveniently located at 5185 Nectar Way, Eugene, OR 97405, USA. This location makes it easily accessible for residents of Eugene and the surrounding areas in Oregon. The studio's commitment to accessibility is clear from the moment you arrive, with a wheelchair-accessible car park. This thoughtful feature ensures that all members of the community can attend classes without facing physical barriers. While the provided information does not detail a wheelchair-accessible entrance, the presence of an accessible car park suggests a broader commitment to making the studio a welcoming and inclusive space for all. The physical space itself is designed to facilitate a positive and productive learning environment, creating a sense of calm and focus that is essential for both artistic creation and personal well-being.

The services offered at Eugene Modern Dance are carefully curated to provide a comprehensive and enriching experience for adult students. The curriculum is built on a foundation of classic modern dance techniques while also incorporating elements of movement for health and wellness.

Services Offered:

• Modern Dance Classes: Ranging from beginning to intermediate levels, these classes teach foundational exercises and guided movements that build strength, flexibility, coordination, and rhythm.
• Beginning Modern Dance: Ideal for those with no prior experience, these classes focus on fundamental techniques, spacial awareness, and the joy of movement, leading to simple dance combinations.
• Intermediate Modern Dance: For dancers with some experience, these classes draw from a rich heritage of modern dance techniques, including those of Limón, Graham, and Cunningham, to create inspired dance combinations.
• Dance Exercise: Conditioning classes that use the Gilbert Technique (originally created for injured ballet dancers) to build physical fitness and lead to simple, beautiful dance movements.
• Stretch and Strengthening Sessions: Classes that combine exercises from Gilbert and Pilates techniques, using imagery and breathing to encourage a meditative approach to body conditioning.
• Choreography Sessions: A unique opportunity for students to explore the basic concepts of choreography (shape, space, quality, and rhythm) and create their own individual or solo dance pieces.
• Performance Opportunities: Students in choreography sessions have the option to perform their dance pieces for family and friends, celebrating their creative achievements in a supportive setting.
• Free Rehearsal Space: Students in choreography sessions are offered free rehearsal space outside of class time to refine their projects.

Eugene Modern Dance distinguishes itself through a variety of features and highlights that are tailored specifically for the adult dancer. These attributes make it a truly unique and valuable resource in the Oregon arts community.

Features / Highlights:

• Non-Competitive Environment: Unlike many dance schools, the studio is intentionally non-competitive, fostering a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere where the focus is on personal growth, not on outperforming others.
• Focus on Adult Dancers: The classes are specifically designed for adults ages 20-65+, ensuring that the instruction, pacing, and community are well-suited to the needs and goals of adult students.
• Experienced and Influential Director: Owner and Director Peggy Soomil has deep roots in the New York modern dance scene of the 1960s, having studied with legendary figures like Martha Graham, José Limón, and Merce Cunningham. This provides a rich, classical, and authentic approach to modern dance.
• Emphasis on Healing and Wellness: The studio's philosophy extends to using dance as a tool for healing and recovery from injury or trauma, as well as for managing chronic conditions.
• Personalized Attention: The small class sizes allow for individual attention and direction from the instructor, a significant benefit for both beginners and experienced dancers.
• Creative Expression: The studio provides unique opportunities for students to explore their own artistic voice through choreography sessions, encouraging them to find their own expression.
• Community-Oriented: The studio is not just a place for classes; it is a center for a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for dance and holistic well-being.

For more information on class schedules, fees, or to get in touch with the studio, you can use the contact information provided below.

Contact Information:

Address: 5185 Nectar Way, Eugene, OR 97405, USA

Phone: (541) 954-9733

Mobile Phone: +1 541-954-9733

Choosing a dance studio in Oregon can be a challenging decision, but Eugene Modern Dance offers a compelling and distinct proposition that makes it truly worth choosing. The primary reason is its unwavering commitment to the adult student. While many dance schools focus on training young, competitive dancers, Eugene Modern Dance provides a space where adults can explore movement on their own terms, free from the pressure of perfection. This non-competitive ethos creates a sense of freedom and joy in dance, which is often lost in more traditional environments. The studio’s founder and director, Peggy Soomil, brings an unparalleled wealth of knowledge and experience to every class. Her roots in the golden age of American modern dance mean that students are learning from a true master of the form, with a deep understanding of the techniques of dance legends. This a rare and invaluable opportunity.

Furthermore, the studio's holistic approach to movement as a form of healing and personal enrichment sets it apart. The classes are not just for building physical strength, but for nurturing the mind and spirit as well. This focus on well-being makes it a perfect choice for those who want to use dance as a form of self-care or as a way to recover from physical or emotional challenges. The small class sizes are another significant benefit, ensuring that every student receives the guidance and support they need to progress safely and effectively. Finally, the opportunity for students to engage in creative expression through choreography sessions and optional performances adds another layer of fulfillment to the experience. It empowers students to not only learn steps but to become artists in their own right. For anyone in the Oregon area looking for a supportive, enriching, and joyful dance experience, Eugene Modern Dance is the perfect place to start their unique journey.

Eugene Modern Dance

5185 Nectar Way, Eugene, OR 97405, USA