Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, the city of Hayesville, Oregon, has quietly emerged as an unexpected epicenter for contemporary dance on the West Coast. Far from the bright lights of New York or Los Angeles, this community has cultivated a rich, collaborative, and deeply technical dance environment that draws students from across the state and beyond. For anyone with a passion for movement, expression, and the evolving language of contemporary dance, Hayesville is a destination worth your attention.
But with several studios vying for your pliés, how do you choose the right one? We've immersed ourselves in the local scene to bring you a guide to the very best institutions for contemporary dance training in the area.
1. The Oregon Movement Project
More than a studio, The Oregon Movement Project (OMP) is a collective. Founded by former members of the prestigious "Eugene Ballet," OMP focuses on a fusion of classical technique and raw, ground-breaking contemporary expression. The faculty are all working artists, which means students are learning the techniques that are being performed on stages today.
What sets them apart: Their annual choreographer's incubator, where advanced students get to create original works alongside professionals, culminating in a public showcase at the historic Hayesville Theatre.
2. Gravity Contemporary Dance Center
True to its name, Gravity explores the full spectrum of weight, release, and momentum that defines modern contemporary dance. With a philosophy rooted in Horton and Graham techniques but fiercely embracing newer styles like Gaga, Gravity is for the dancer who wants to understand the mechanics of their body.
What sets them apart: Their state-of-the-art sprung floors and immersive music program. Every class is accompanied by live percussion or piano, making the connection between movement and sound truly visceral.
3. The Hayesville Dance Conservatory
For those seeking a more structured, rigorous academic approach, the Conservatory is the gold standard. Offering pre-professional programs for teens and a renowned adult evening program, HDC provides a comprehensive education that includes dance history, kinesiology, and nutrition alongside daily technique classes.
What sets them apart: Their affiliation with international dance companies provides students with exclusive workshop opportunities from touring artists and a clear pathway to professional auditions.
4. Flux Studio
If you're looking for the cutting edge, look no further. Flux Studio is the hub for experimental and interdisciplinary contemporary work. They actively blend dance with digital media, improvisation, and somatic practices. This is the place to break boundaries and discover new forms of expression.
What sets them apart: Their "Open Lab" nights, where dancers, musicians, and visual artists gather for collaborative jams, fostering a unique and supportive community of avant-garde artists.
The Hayesville Vibe: Why It Works
What makes Hayesville’s scene so special isn’t just the quality of any one studio, but the synergy between them. There’s a palpable lack of cut-throat competition; instead, there’s a shared mission to elevate dance as an art form. It’s common to see students taking classes at multiple studios and faculty collaborating on projects.
This collaborative spirit, set against the backdrop of Oregon’s natural beauty, creates an environment that is both inspiring and nurturing. Dancers here are technically proficient, creatively fearless, and deeply supportive of one another.
Finding Your Fit
Choosing the right studio is a personal journey. The best advice is to take a trial class at a few places. Pay attention to the culture of the studio: Do the students look engaged and supported? Does the teaching philosophy align with your goals, whether they are professional or personal?
Hayesville’s contemporary dance scene is a testament to the power of community and art. It proves that you don’t need to be in a mega-city to find world-class training and a vibrant, expressive home for your passion.
