Moving Parts Dance

- 302 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501

In the heart of Olympia, Washington, a unique and transformative space for movement and artistic expression exists: Moving Parts Dance. Far from a traditional dance studio, Moving Parts identifies as a dance company that is actively working to dismantle and rebuild dance culture. It serves as a true gem for the local community, providing a welcoming environment for both seasoned dancers and those just beginning their journey. For residents of Washington, and specifically the Olympia area, Moving Parts Dance is a standout destination that offers much more than just classes; it offers a supportive community, a place for personal growth, and a platform for artistic exploration.

Founded by choreographer Sydney Blanchard, Moving Parts is built on a mission to nurture a community of embodied, autonomous movement artists. They offer an alternative to competitive and often-demanding studio cultures by focusing on a trauma-aware and injury-preventative approach. This philosophy ensures that everyone who walks through their doors, regardless of their background or level of experience, feels safe, respected, and empowered. The studio is particularly celebrated for being queer-friendly, a quality that resonates deeply with its community and contributes to the space's inclusive and affirming atmosphere.

Beyond its role as an educational space, Moving Parts Dance is a professional performing arts group, with a company of dedicated movement artists who create original, contemporary works that delve into significant social questions, particularly those exploring the queer experience. These performances are an integral part of the studio's identity, providing a powerful means of expression and connection. By making these works accessible to the public through a variety of pricing options, they ensure that their art reaches a wide audience and contributes to the cultural richness of Olympia. The studio is a vibrant hub that seamlessly blends professional artistry with community-focused education.

The inclusive and collaborative spirit of Moving Parts Dance is echoed in the glowing testimonials from its members. Customers describe the space as a "gem" and a place where "everyone lifts each other up." This sense of genuine community is a powerful draw for locals who have long sought an adult dance studio that is not only challenging but also fun and welcoming. The studio is a testament to the idea that dance can be a tool for personal transformation, community building, and social change, making it a truly valuable asset to the Washington arts scene.

Moving Parts Dance is conveniently situated at 302 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501, USA. Its location places it in a central and accessible part of Olympia, making it easy for residents from various neighborhoods to visit. The studio is a single-level building, which simplifies access for all patrons.

The business has a strong commitment to accessibility, as evidenced by its various features. It offers on-site parking, which is a significant convenience for anyone driving to the studio. Furthermore, the studio is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, seating, and toilet, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can navigate the space with ease. This thoughtful design highlights the studio’s dedication to being an inclusive space for all.

Its location is not just physically convenient; it’s also integrated into the local community. The studio is known to host events and workshops that engage with the broader Olympia community, making it more than just a place for classes—it’s a point of interest for gatherings and artistic showcases that bring people together. The central address in Olympia places it within a vibrant cultural landscape, where it can easily collaborate with other local artists and organizations.

Moving Parts Dance offers a variety of services designed to engage both the seasoned dancer and the curious newcomer. The studio's primary focus is on adult dance education, provided through multiple formats.

• Weekly Drop-in Classes: These classes are designed to be accessible and flexible, allowing individuals to attend as their schedule permits. The curriculum is challenging yet adaptable to different skill levels.
• Cohort Series: The studio offers multi-week series, such as the upcoming "Body as a Temple Series," which provide a deeper dive into specific topics and foster a sense of continuous learning and community among participants.
• Guest Workshops: Moving Parts brings in an array of professional guest instructors to lead specialized workshops, expanding the learning opportunities for students.
• Dance Company and Performances: The studio is home to a dedicated performance group that creates and stages original contemporary dance works. These performances are open to the public, often with free, donation, or sliding scale pricing options.
• Studio Rentals: The space is available for rent by the hour, providing a venue for other artists, workshops, events, or rehearsals. The studio includes amenities like a sound system, restrooms, and changing rooms.

The range of services demonstrates the studio's commitment to being a comprehensive resource for movement arts in the Olympia community.

Several features make Moving Parts Dance a noteworthy and highly recommendable destination for anyone interested in movement and community.

• Radical Inclusivity: The studio is celebrated for its queer-friendly and trauma-aware environment. This emphasis on a safe and welcoming space is a core part of its identity, making it a unique place in the dance world.
• Non-Competitive Culture: Unlike many traditional dance studios, Moving Parts focuses on personal growth and community support rather than competition. This fosters a collaborative and uplifting atmosphere.
• Accessibility: The studio is equipped with wheelchair-accessible amenities, including a car park, entrance, seating, and gender-neutral toilets. This commitment to physical accessibility ensures that everyone can participate.
• Sliding Scale Pricing: The studio offers classes and performances on a sliding scale with a "NOTAFLOF" (No One Turned Away For Lack Of Funds) policy. This financial accessibility ensures that dance is available to people from all economic backgrounds.
• Focus on Adult Education: The studio is a rare find in the Olympia area, as it caters specifically to adult dancers, fulfilling a need that had been unmet for a long time.
• Thoughtful Amenities: With on-site parking, gender-neutral toilets, and the option to use credit or debit cards, the studio has considered the practical needs of its customers, making the experience smooth and convenient.

These highlights make Moving Parts Dance a truly modern and progressive institution that aligns with the values of the Olympia community.

Address: 302 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501, USA

For anyone in the Olympia area and beyond looking for a place to move, connect, and express themselves, Moving Parts Dance is an exceptional choice. The studio's commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment is its most significant selling point. As one reviewer noted, it is "a gem in Olympia" and a place where classes are "challenging but accessible for different levels and always super fun." The fact that it is a queer-friendly space where "everyone lifts each other up" highlights the core values that make it so special.

The studio's sliding scale pricing and commitment to financial accessibility mean that the joy of dance is not limited to a privileged few. This is a crucial aspect for a community-oriented space that seeks to serve a diverse population. The availability of on-site parking and comprehensive accessibility features further underscore their dedication to welcoming everyone.

Furthermore, Moving Parts Dance is a place for authentic connection. The focus on non-competitive, trauma-aware instruction allows students to focus on their own growth and embodiment without the pressure of comparison. The opportunity to attend drop-in classes, participate in a longer cohort series, or simply attend a performance allows individuals to engage with the space in a way that best suits their needs and interests. It's a place where you can not only learn new skills but also become part of a supportive and vibrant community. For anyone looking to find their rhythm and community in Olympia, Moving Parts Dance is the perfect destination.

Moving Parts Dance

302 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501, USA