Dance is a powerful way to express creativity, build confidence, and stay active at any age. In Salem, Oregon, local dance studios offer classes for kids, teens, and adults in styles like ballet, hip hop, ballroom, contemporary, and even aerial arts. This guide highlights trusted studios in the area and what makes each one unique.
RJ Dance Studio, LLC
RJ Dance Studio offers ballroom dance lessons, social dancing events, wedding dance prep, and group or private instruction for adults. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or have been dancing for years; RJ Dance Studio is a great place for adults and couples looking to connect through dance.
Arthur Murray Salem
Arthur Murray is a nationally recognized name in ballroom and partner dancing, with a local studio right here in Salem. Their structured curriculum helps beginners feel confident quickly with over 30 dance styles including salsa, swing, waltz, and tango. Arthur Murray Salem is good for adults or couples looking for a structured, social dance experience that’s welcoming for beginners but also rich in variety and progression (most students begin with no prior experience)!
The Lotus Studio
The Lotus Studio offers dance classes for youth aged 2-17, with a mix of ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and acrobatics. Their programs offer broad exposure to dance and physical movement in one place. Their performance season runs form September through August with many opportunities to learn, grow, and present their talents.
For adults, the Lotus Studio also offers yoga and senior fitness classes!
City Dance Theatre
City Dance Theatre is a longstanding studio with a strong focus on technical foundation, creative expression, and performance readiness. Their philosophy is that dance rounds out the educational experience provided by school, family, and community. Teaching styles like ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop and contemporary, CDT prides themselves on having a warm and creative atmosphere for dancers of all ages and abilities.
Starr Studios Salem School of Dance
Starr Studios provides classes for toddlers, kids, and teens in ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, and creative movement. Known for their encouragement, inclusion, and variety of classes, Starr Studios is a great place for young dancers to explore different styles in a supportive environment.
Salem Aerial Dance Company
If you’re looking to get your dancing off the ground (literally) Salem Aerial Dance Company offers aerial fabric, trapeze, and lyra classes for youth and adults. This studio’s unique way of combining strength, artistry, and adventure is great for creative movers of all ages.
Orbit Dance Company
Orbit Dance Company is a nonprofit dance company that makes dance accessible for local youth. Thanks to partnerships with Salem-Keizer Public Schools and budget-friendly classes, your child can learn, laugh, and grow their confidence through acro and dance. Their certified instructors prioritize injury prevention and safety, and performances are local without costume or ticket fees.
Premiere Academy of Performing Arts
Since 1999, Premiere Academy of Performing Arts has offered a well-rounded dance education with classes in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, contemporary, and more. Their programs include recreational and competitive tracks for dancers of all ages, with an emphasis on strong technique, personal growth, and performance opportunities.
Tippy Toe Dance Studio
Tippy Toe Dance Studio describes itself as a place where dancers of all ages discover their unique voice through movement. Their mission emphasizes originality, artistry, and inclusivity, making the studio a welcoming environment for children, teens and adults. Their programs include “Technique,” “Performance” and “Project: Dance,” so you’ll find options whether you’re building a foundation or diving into bold creative work. This studio can be a good fit for dancers who value expressive movement, want to grow artistically, and are looking for a studio with a strong community and creative focus.
What to Look for When Choosing a Dance Studio
When visiting or researching a studio, here are a few things to consider:
- Instructor credentials & interaction – Watch a class or ask about experience.
- Class levels & progression – Is there a clear path to grow?
- Recitals & performance – Do they offer stage time, competitions, or social performances if that’s important to you?
- Culture & atmosphere – Does it feel welcoming and supportive?
- Scheduling & fees – Are there trial classes, or hidden performance costs?
Taking a tour or attending a drop-in class can give you a better feel for whether a studio is the right fit.
Ready to Dance in Salem?
Looking for the dance studio that fits your energy, style, and goals? Explore and compare local dance studios on WhirLocal to connect with your new dance home.
