A storefront window with a purple sign that has orange text reading 'SOLD' in large letters. The building has beige walls with red window trims, and there are trees with pink blossoms and a clear sky reflected on the window. The sidewalk in front has
Pink-blossomed cherry tree in front of a storefront with large windows, reflecting the street and parked cars, under a clear sky.
Red glass door with window panels above, attached to a beige building with red trim. There are two signs on the door: one says 'STEPS', the other instructs to 'PLEASE USE MAIN ENTRANCE ON 12TH'. The reflection in the glass shows cars and trees outsid
Empty dance studio with large mirrors on one wall, wooden support beams, and circular ceiling lights.
Storefront with pastel-colored window panes, cherry blossom tree in bloom, pink petals scattered on the sidewalk, and a sign on the door reading 'Summer Intensive 2023.'

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.

MOVE, SWEAT, CONNECT: teen/ ADULT DROP-INS

A diverse group of five women and one man smiling and posing against a gray wall background, with a blue banner at the bottom displaying the text "Steps PDX New Open Classes + Fall Schedule."

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)

Teen/Adult Drop-In Schedule

A DANCE CLASS FOR EVERYONE

Group of diverse people with masks posing indoors in front of a colorful banner promoting danceability classes, with some making playful gestures and signs.

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!

Learn More

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.

A diverse group of young dancers in colorful dance attire posing together in a studio.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR YOUTH

we provided $36,092 in Scholarships for the 2024/2025 school year

A group of children and two adult women posing together on the floor of a dance studio or classroom, smiling and looking at the camera.

BIPOC YOUTH PROGRAM

This 10-month long program offers creative movement, ballet and tap classes to students from ages 4-9 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.

Dismantling systemic racism in dance is not a one time event. It is up to each and every one of us to not only reflect, but take action, not just today, but everyday.