A Glimpse into the Heart of Steps Pdx Dance Studio
Who Are We?
Founded in 2017 by Artistic Director Kathryn Harden, Steps PDX was created with a vision to bring exceptional dance training and a sense of belonging to the Portland community. What began as a single studio has grown into a thriving space where dancers of all ages and experiences can learn, create, and connect.
At Steps PDX, we believe that dance is for everyone. Our programs range from creative movement for our youngest dancers to pre-professional training for dedicated students preparing for a future in the arts. We are proud to offer a supportive environment where every dancer, whether they are exploring for fun or aiming for a career, can be challenged, celebrated, and inspired.
Our team of 20 highly experienced and passionate faculty come from diverse backgrounds as professional dancers, choreographers, and educators. Each teacher brings their own expertise and a deep commitment to mentoring students, cultivating curiosity, and helping every dancer discover their artistic voice.
Community is the heart and soul of Steps PDX. We believe that meaningful connections happen in the studio and beyond. Through collaborative performances, outreach programs, and mentorship, we create opportunities for dancers to grow not just in their technique, but in their confidence, empathy, and artistry.
More than just a dance studio, Steps PDX is a home, a place where students, families, and teachers come together to move, learn, and celebrate the joy of dance.
SUMMER INTENSIVE 2026
High-level training, creative exploration, and community all summer long
Join us this summer for an immersive 1–3 week intensive designed for aspiring dancers ready to grow technically and artistically. Rooted in Ballet and Modern Contemporary, the program includes advanced training in a wide range of styles, conditioning practices, creative studies, and enriching seminars that support the whole dancer. Train with Steps PDX faculty and guest artists from across the country in order to build strength, versatility, and confidence in a supportive and nurturing environment.
MOVE, SWEAT, CONNECT: ADULT DROP-INS
Classes occur weekly September through July. We are closed for the month of August. This season, we offer new classes along with some familiar favorites. Click the link below to check out the new schedule. (If you need your class pass extended, Email us at: Operations@StepsPdx.com)
TRAIN. TRANSFORM. PERFORM.
At Steps Pdx School, we offer a high-caliber curriculum designed to develop technical excellence, artistic expression, and overall well-being. Our Ballet/Modern School blends classical foundations with contemporary movement practices, giving dancers a well-rounded, enriching experience that builds strength, creativity, and confidence. Whether your dancer is just beginning or preparing for a pre-professional path, our faculty provides individualized mentorship and expert training in a supportive and inspiring community.
We are accepting new students in January for the Spring 2026 Term.
OWN YOUR GROOVE
This year we will be offering 2 levels for 2-terms, led by Steps PDX Hip Hop Director Decimus Yarbrough.
This program has been carefully curated to challenge the physical and technical abilities of each dancer in a positive and nurturing environment. We will provide knowledge and experiences for dancers to gain exposure into various styles that influence Hip Hop including; Locking, Rhythm Training, Street Jazz, Tap, Afro Funk, Footwork, Floor-work, House, and Choreography.
We are accepting new students in January for the Spring 2026 Term.
A DANCE CLASS FOR EVERYONE
DanceAbility is the study of movement improvisation for all people, for mixed abilities and mixed experiences. The four primary elements that we work with - sensation, relationship, time, and design - guide our practice and allow us to not only dance but dance together. At the basis of this work is the understanding that every movement can happen in any body relatively and that any movement can be interpreted by any body. Our goal is to create a culture of dance that eliminates isolation and works as a community through expression. This class is for all people meaning ALL PEOPLE!
Join us every Saturday 9:30-10:45am for class!
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR YOUTH
Steps for Youth awarded 80 scholarships to students who demonstrate natural abilities and have the passion to pursue a career in dance. Last season we provided $36,092 for the 2024/2025 school year!
Our goal for 2025/2026 is to double our scholarship funds and continue to uplift youth by creating a more accessible art form.
we provided $36,092 in Scholarships for the 2024/2025 school year
BIPOC YOUTH PROGRAM
This 10-month long program offers creative movement, ballet and tap classes to 62 students from ages 3-9 years old. Over the past 4 years we have seen this program grow tremendously, and we hope to continue expanding and providing accessible and quality dance education for all.
Latest Performances
