Opus Performing Arts

- 207 Prospect St Suite 201, Bellingham, WA 98225

Nestled in the heart of Bellingham, Washington, Opus Performing Arts is a distinguished dance and music school that has become a beloved fixture in the local arts community. With a strong commitment to both technical excellence and a compassionate, supportive environment, Opus provides a unique space for students of all ages to explore their passion for the performing arts. Whether you are a parent seeking a positive outlet for your child, a teenager with aspirations of professional dance, or an adult looking to take your very first dance class, Opus Performing Arts offers a program designed to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

The philosophy at Opus is rooted in the belief that dance education should be both challenging and fun. The professional faculty, known for their experience, knowledge, and encouraging nature, are dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of dance in every student. They focus on proper foundations, technique, and injury avoidance, ensuring that students build a strong and safe base for their training. This dual focus on rigorous instruction and a joyful atmosphere sets Opus apart from other schools. The studio owners, Allan and Marie, are praised for creating a rare community where students feel accepted and are consistently challenged towards excellence.

The school is well-regarded not only for its technical training but also for its commitment to the individual growth of each student. Teachers take the time to provide thoughtful, in-depth reviews at the end of each semester, offering personalized feedback on technique, progress, and areas for improvement. This level of individualized attention is a testament to their dedication to each student’s journey, making it a truly exceptional place for both children and adults to grow as artists and individuals.

Opus Performing Arts is conveniently located at 207 Prospect St Suite 201, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA, in the vibrant downtown area. The studio is situated on the second floor of a building that also houses the Bellingham Cider Company. Finding the studio is made easier as the entrance is accessible from the parking lot behind the building, south of the post office, by turning west into the lot at Prospect St. and Central Avenue.

The school is committed to accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, ensuring that all members of the community can access their services without hassle. While some nearby parking lots are permit-only during certain hours, street parking is available, and the staff is happy to provide guidance on the best parking options. This thoughtful approach to logistics makes attending classes a smooth and stress-free experience for local families and students.

Opus Performing Arts offers a comprehensive and diverse range of services, catering to a wide audience from toddlers to adults. Their curriculum is designed to provide high-quality instruction in various performing arts disciplines.

• Adult Lessons: The school offers a variety of Adult Dance Classes, including Adult Ballet Classes, Adult Beginning Ballet, and Adult Tap, with the option of both Drop-In Classes and per-week enrollment.
• Ballet Programs: A strong focus on ballet training with classes from Pre-Ballet and Classes For Toddlers up to Primary Ballet, Classical Ballet, Performance Ballet, and advanced Pre-Pointe Training.
• Diverse Dance Styles: Beyond ballet, Opus offers Contemporary Classes, Hip Hop Dance Classes, and Tap Classes, providing a well-rounded dance education.
• Summer Programs: The studio keeps dancers engaged during the off-season with Summer Dance Camps and Summer Intensive Programs, perfect for accelerated learning and skill development.
• Private and Small Group Instruction: Offering both Private Lessons and Classes Private Lessons, giving students the opportunity for individualized attention.
• Music Education: Expanding its offerings to include Music Classes, making it a comprehensive Performing Arts School.
• Flexible Class Formats: The school provides various class durations, including 45 Minute Classes and 1 Hour Classes, as well as Drop In Dance Classes and Individual Class options, which do not require a long-term commitment.
• Online Resources: Students and families can access helpful resources like Tutorial Videos, which support learning outside of the studio.

Opus Performing Arts is distinguished by a variety of features that contribute to its outstanding reputation in Bellingham and beyond. These highlights make the studio a preferred choice for dance and music education.

• Highly Professional and Encouraging Staff: The teachers are consistently praised for being knowledgeable and passionate, while also being incredibly kind and supportive. They are skilled at pushing students to grow just outside their comfort zone without causing frustration.
• Welcoming Environment: Customers describe Opus as "very friendly" and "very welcoming." This atmosphere makes it an ideal first step for beginners, including adult men with no prior experience.
• Commitment to Technique and Safety: A key focus of the school is providing a strong foundation in technique and proper alignment to ensure students can progress safely and avoid bad habits, especially important for students beginning pointe work.
• Community-Oriented: The owners and teachers have built a true community where students and parents feel a sense of belonging. The studio owners are noted for being "THE BEST- so welcoming and friendly" and putting their hearts into the business.
• Exceptional Productions: Opus is known for its spectacular dance productions, such as its annual Nutcracker ballet, which features gorgeous handmade costumes and sets. This provides students with high-quality performance experience in a historic venue like the Mount Baker Theatre.
• Focus on Individual Growth: The practice of providing detailed, written reviews for each student is a unique and highly valued feature, demonstrating a deep commitment to each dancer's personal development.
• Child-Friendly Atmosphere: Opus is well-regarded for being good for kids, with teachers who are great with students of all ages.
• Flexible Payment Options: The school accepts major credit cards and debit cards for tuition payments, and does not require a long-term financial commitment, offering monthly payment options and discounts for prepaid tuition.

For more information or to inquire about class schedules and registration, you can contact Opus Performing Arts directly.

Address: 207 Prospect St Suite 201, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA

Phone: (360) 734-5300

Choosing Opus Performing Arts is a decision to invest in a dance and music education that prioritizes both skill and soul. What truly sets this studio apart is its ability to maintain a rigorous commitment to technique while sustaining a joyful, fun atmosphere. For those in Bellingham and the surrounding communities, Opus represents an amazing first step into the world of dance. The genuine happiness of the staff, the welcoming nature of the community, and the personalized attention each student receives are consistently highlighted in testimonials. One parent noted that the owners are "THE BEST" and have created a place where students are "accepted, encouraged, and challenged towards excellence all at once."

For an adult like one reviewer who wanted to learn to dance with no experience, the studio's ability to make the learning process "fun but challenging without tipping into frustration" is a significant advantage. This tailored approach, combined with the professional and caring faculty, ensures that every student’s journey is a positive and rewarding one. The studio’s grand productions, like The Nutcracker, also provide an exceptional opportunity for students to showcase their talents in a professional and magical setting, creating memories that last a lifetime. Ultimately, Opus is worth choosing because it provides not just dance instruction, but a supportive community that fosters artistic growth, confidence, and a lasting passion for the performing arts.

Opus Performing Arts

207 Prospect St Suite 201, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA