NW Dance Project

NW Dance Project was founded in Portland in 2004 by acclaimed dancer, mentor, and choreographer Sarah Slipper. NW Dance Project is dedicated to the creation and performance of innovative, new contemporary dance works from talented choreographers from around the world, all created in an open and artistically stimulating environment. NW Dance Project has fostered the creation and Portland-premiere of over 280 original contemporary dance works to date — an unparalleled number of new works for a dance company. Our award-winning company performs four unique shows in Portland annually and tours regionally, nationally, and internationally. We are also committed to advancing dance education, equity, and community engagement through our cost-free Dance Moves arts engagement and access programs; ongoing dance training and classes for youth and adults of all levels, abilities, and in a range of dance styles; and special programs for rising, aspiring, and in-transition professional dancers. Most programmatic elements (creation, rehearsals, classes, special projects, administration, etc.) occur at our light, spacious, and beautiful NE Portland Creative Center, which has grown to become a crucial multi-functional community resource and support center.

Mission
NW Dance Project celebrates, supports, and represents excellence in dance. NW Dance Project is dedicated to creating and performing inspired, original contemporary dance works from the field’s most talented choreographers from around the world and to providing the finest dance training available for all. We perform, educate, create, cultivate, and champion diversity while engaging and deepening public appreciation and support of dance.