I haven't been into a dance class in about 10 years but I used to go to Vega and was a collegiate dancer before that and let me tell you the experience I had at Vega was so great! Everyone is so supportive and lovely and the studio looks incredible. I highly recommend they have so many different types of classes for everyone. I love that it's an adult setting. And they have air-conditioning! Yay! read more

I have tried many classes so far and the teachers I liked the best are Nikki, Jeanine, Evie and Tara. I am basically an absolute beginner and I found their classes easier to keep up with. If you are a beginner I would suggest a class that is labeled more workout than choreo because they do choreography in all I have been to. The owners are very nice people and the people who go there are also nice and approachable. read more

Vega bills itself as an all-levels, all drop-ins, all grown-ups studio. Emphasis on the ALL LEVELS part - they market toward adult beginners. Sounds great, right? Wrong. My roommate and I ventured to a "street jazz" class a couple of Tuesdays ago and were blindsided by an indifferent teacher and a fast-paced dance class clearly geared toward dancers who were both A) advanced and B) had been coming to the class for ages. Our experience: The class begins with absolutely no introduction from the teacher - no "Hi, my name is Teacher X," no "Welcome to Dance Class Y," no "If you are new please raise your hand," no "Does anyone have an injury I should know about?" We weren't even sure we were in the right class. Teacher X (short brown hair, says "yeah?" after every sentence) dives right into teaching a complicated dance routine using ballet nomenclature at a pace far too fast for a real beginner to understand. All six other student blow right through it, since judging by the chummy interaction between them and the teacher, they've been attending this class for months. Meanwhile, the teacher continues to completely ignore us. We do our best to follow along, which is hard because: a) She is teaching at an advanced level b) We can't even hear her commands over the music, as she doesn't have a microphone, and c) we keep running into pillars and seating areas ... but we both halt in our tracks when the teacher commands us all to fall/tumble. As someone with zero dance experience, I decided it would be best for me not to hurl my recovering-from-injuries body at the hardwood floor with absolutely no instruction on how to do so safely. My roommate, who actually HAS dance experience, made the same wise decision. We both wanted to leave so very, very badly, but our polite WASPy upbringings restrained us. Upon exit, the friendly woman who greeted us downstairs (I assume another teacher - blonde, dreadlocks) came up and handed us our sign-in forms and announced we would be comped the drop-in cost. Ostensibly the reason was because she had to rush off to begin teaching the next class - I suspect it was because we looked so miserable. Caveat: This is a review of ONE class with one particularly terrible teacher, not the whole studio. The woman downstairs really did seem very nice, and perhaps this class was sparsely attended (seriously, there were only six other people there) for a reason. I am, however, too traumatized to ever try another class there again. read more

Wow. I dropped in with my friend to have a fun dance class. I was not expecting to get repremanded and called out through out the class. If you are looking to learn some fun steps, know that this isn't for you unless your a professional. This is for serious dancers who do not get offended by being singled out. Evie literally pointed us out wanting our timing better and knowing our number count. I don't know numbers for dance moves people. The owner Evie completely shamed my friend and I. I almost walked out 2x. She wants the class to be fun but is a complete contradiction. She would yell at you and then tell you to have fun aggressively. I walked out of there angry, upset, and wanting my money back. That was a complete waste of time. Ohh and the studio was dirty and the knee pads I borrowed smelt so terrible! I cannot believe she is the owner and people actually come bCk to this place. Never again. We did not have fun and felt stressed and shamed the whole time. Pdx pulse is a lot more fun and less expected of you. read more

I was going to write a review when I realized someone had literally had the same experience and written about it. Friend and I dropped in for a hip hop class...Evie was unbelievably rude and I'm used to dance teachers being direct but the way we were treated was inexcusable. Going in to the class, I thought the only way I would feel defeated is if I didn't get the steps...I got the choreo okay...but didn't expect to be publicly shamed. I would be willing to go back to try a different instructor but I don't want to support her business. I was hoping to have a fun time...but absolutely nothing about it was fun. I'm considering calling the studio directly because they've left their yelp page "unclaimed". The lecture she gave my friend about dance classes afterwards was also very conceited and not helpful. We left feeling so shamed and discouraged. Cannot believe I paid money to feel that way. Word to the wise: don't go to evie's class with the expectation of having a good time. Better yet, don't go at all. read more

When I was talking with the lady at the front desk she was talking about how she got splinters in her butt from their studio. I thought she was joking. While I was dancing, wood pieces kept getting in my tights, and I come home to find splinters in both of my fucking knees. The dance floor was filthy, and covered in hair from previous dancers. Also, there are a bunch of beams in the middle of the floor. The studio looked cool, and the class was OKAY, I guess. Even if the floors were safe to dance on/ if the studio wasn't disgusting, I still wouldn't recommend this studio to anyone who wanted to learn actual dance techniques. Overall, the studio was garbage, and a waste of time and money. read more

This dance studio has become my new home! The owners Evie and Joe are so welcoming and encouraging when it comes to learning self expression and trying new things. YouTube can't beat live instructors, and the entire teaching staff brings expertise and enthusiasm to their dance genre that will leave you buzzing after class! read more

I'm not totally sure about this place but my first experience was not a good one. Being new to Portland, I called to get a better idea of exactly what the class descriptions meant. I've been a dancer for 30 years and do it just for fun, mostly hip hop and African fusion percussion heavy rhythms. I have been looking for a fun, low key place to take hip hop where I could also feel part of a hip hop community. I made the big mistake of selecting hip hop cabaret as my first class. I have a very tight schedule and didn't want to waste time taking a class that was too formally choreographed where I would feel lost in my first class. Well that's exactly what happened. This class was precisely what I didn't want. First the instructor, well the class started late and he just put on music and told us to stretch on our own. Personally as someone involved in athletics and dance for many decades, stretching comes after, class should start with a warmup. Then he just got right into the choreography and while trying to be funny, I found his attitude obnoxious. Like you better have this and no one better be off beat. Whatever dude, it's for fun, not an audition. He doesn't do any choreography with the class, he demos and leaves you on your own so there's no one to really follow if you're new. I tried to pick one girl to follow, but it was too hard to pick this up without at least one run through with a teacher. The choreography was dope, no lie. Really tops, very music video like, but in no way was the music or the dance steps at all hip hop. I think we danced to a Fantasia song, that would be r&b, not hip hop. The worst part was getting divided into smaller groups with a bunch of people sitting around watching. I was not feeling it and I stepped out. I felt so uncomfortable. I watched the other dancers for a bit. Damn they were really good, but this was really more like jazz/contemporary dance. Also I'm almost 50 so maybe I was too old for this class. I don't plan on throwing myself on the floor and flipping around on the floor anytime soon. I mean I can but I really wanted straight hip hop. I may just have chosen the wrong class for me. Didn't like the teacher, hated the music and it was not hip hop anything. I'll give a straight hip hop class another chance but I'm hesitant to go back. I should probably just stick with yoga. First impressions . read more

Vega Dance Lab - Funky studio - Performing Arts Near Me - Portland, Oregon

" Dance like no ones watching " you always hear people say. And I do! Like a silly blow up guy in front of a car dealership. I love to dance, whether it's visually pleasing to others is not my concern. So, when a friend suggested we do dance classes - I was all about it. Finally! Time to hone in all my skill. Wrong, let's get this right out there in the open before we get going - Vega Dance Lab is not a place to learn to dance. People gripe about the gym saying "It's where skinny people go to get skinnier". Well, Vega Dance Lab is where dancers go to get...dancier...or you know whatever. Bottom line is don't go expecting to learn the basics. At this point I've been to a few different classes including burley q, tease and tone, and cardio funk. Each class kicked my ass and left me a big sweaty mess, which I love! The dances get a little sexy so if your not that person, be prepared to feel a tad awkward. If you are that person however , git it! The studio itself is fine. It can get a little hot but that's to be expected. Also, people get pretty darn sweaty and classes change over without any cleaning time which is...well icky if you have to put your hands in a puddle of someones sweat to do a push-up. Having gone to a number of different work out classes I know the importance of proper form to not only get the most benefit but to avoid injuries. For a place that works you so hard I would've liked to see more assistance and adjustments from the instructors to help the clueless (ahem!) out. Instead these hottie instructors just watched themselves in the mirror. I get it your hot, we all know, but can you please help us out? I'd recommend Vega to anyone in serious shape looking for an ass whoopin' or to someone with a dance background. For a sorta kinda in shape person whose idea of dancing is wiggling around to the beat, I've gotta pass. read more

Vega is an amazing studio. Be fore warned though, if you have absolutely no dance experience or only a little experience, and are expecting them to turn you into a technical dancer, this is probably not the studio for you. The classes are only an hour long and they are on going, not regimented into 10 or 12 week sessions, so the instructors do not have a point at which they can ease beginners, or those who have minimal dance experience, into dancing. I'm sorry, but if you want that, then you'll need to go to a dance school and be introduced to basic dance terminology with a teacher who has the context with which to train you from scratch ( or almost scratch) They will not coddle you or turn you into a dancer, they will make you a better dancer and introduce you to a variety of dance styles from an amazing staff of dancers. And most importantly, it's fun!!! I can't stress that enough. I've been dancing for 20 years in ballet, contemporary and lyrical and not only does Vega give me a wonderful workout, but I leave smiling and anticipating my next visit. If I want a hardcore technique class I go to other studios, If I want to get an amazing workout that leaves me sore the next day and with a head full of relevant and interesting choreography then I go to Vega. If you are an adult dancer and want to dance the art, and dance it with the joy it infuses you with, then go to Vega. If you are an adult dancer with a busy schedule and want a dance class in the evenings that is fun and not obsessed with forcing your aging hips/ankles/arches/hamstrings to do things they did 10 years (not that you won't get a good workout, but you definitely will not have an instructor standing next to you telling you to force fifth, calling your lateral T calligraphy, or criticizing you through 90 minutes of meticulous Graham floor work ) then go to Vega. If you have never danced before or have very minimal dance experience and are expecting someone to take time out of the 60 minutes they have to single you out and personally introduce you to dance , then try a dance school first. If you've never danced before but want to have an amazing class with amazing instructors and can laugh through your initial fumbles and appreciate the girl/fella next to you who just pulled off a triple pirouette when there really was only time for one and is obviously a trained dancer, then come and have fun with the rest of us. read more

I went to an "all-levels" lyrical class and found myself attempting to follow lighting-fast choreography that required us to throw ourselves upon the ground and do some sort of french-sounding kicks and whatnot. I don't mind a challenge, but the instructors were totally unsympathetic and did not acknowledge me at all, even though it was obvious I had no idea what I was doing. If not for the Saturday class with Allison, this place would have been a complete bust. read more

Let me start with saying I love Vega Dance Lab. I have never found another studio or any other exercise that is as much fun as dancing there. In general, it is a great concept for a dance studio. Every class is drop in, so it never matters if you miss one. The teachers will typically teach the same routine for three weeks, from the beginning to end each time. They offer a range of classes from burlesque to lyrical, but the majority are hip hop. But, even the hip hop classes are vastly different from each other depending on who is teaching. The routines are awesome, the teachers are fantastic dancers, the space is cool... what more could you want? read more

Vega is a wonderful adult studio catering to all levels of dancers, I got hooked after discovering them via Groupon last fall. They offer a variety of classes and are constantly adding new classes as demand grows. They are very good about updating the schedule online and on their Facebook page. I generally take classes with Shannon, Evie and Megan. The instructors have infallible positivity and patience, and choreograph the most BANGIN' routines. There are many people who take 2-3 classes a night, it's addicting! One tip I have would be to arrive at least 15 minutes early to class. Classes tend to get crowded and it's nice to be able to see a bit of yourself in the mirror. read more

I just love Vega. Ive only been here a couple of times but cant wait to make it my regular place to dance. The classes are really fun, high energy and great for any level of dancer. Ive taken Burly Q and Tease and Tone. Both were really fun. In all honesty the first 30 minutes of the tease and tone class really kicked my butt! I definitely think its worth taking a couple of classes in a row to get the most out of the work out. I cant wait to try out more classes. read more

THIS IS MY FAVORITE DANCE STUDIO IN PORTLAND! When I first moved here I had a hard time find the right dance studio. I would either find schools geared toward kids, expensive ballet classes or strictly modern classes. Then I found Vega and my prayers were answered! All the classes are fun, funky and fresh and lean toward the jazzy side of the dance spectrum. All the teachers are amazing, inspiring and encouraging. Anyone from beginner to professional can come and feel completely comfortable. There really is a class for everyone. Not only does Vega provide a fun and encouraging environment, but they're simply affordable! Their drop-in rates are the cheapest I've found here, and I dont even know how theyre making money off their package discounts. I believe there's class package that comes out to about 8 or 9 dollars a class! I havent seen prices like that since I was a little dancer! Go check it out and see the amazing talent that gets thrown around there. Yes the talent it big, but not the egos. Definitely a dance studio to call home :) read more

My new favorite place to sweat! What a find! A dance studio for adults! Thanks Groupon. I got a deal for four classes awhile ago and just started going within the last month and when I ran out I bought a package. I've been an inconsistent attendee of other dance classes in the past. I will go for a few weeks and then something comes up and I miss a class or two and get behind on the routine and convince myself "I tried" and I stop going. Money wasted. What I love about Vega is that the classes are drop in. This is perfect for someone like me, I can miss a week here and there and it does not matter, they teach one routine in the class and then teach it again for a few weeks before starting a new one. The instructors are very talented and keep the class moving at a good pace so you don't have a lot of the standing around that comes with taking some of the other classes in the area so it's a good workout to boot. There is a good variety of classes to try, hip hop, burlesque, jazz, lyrical, toning, flexibility and I'm sure I'm forgetting a few others. I recently got an email stating that ballet and zumba are coming soon. So far I've done the hip hop and toning classes and can't wait to try more! read more

Vega Is Amazing! Great location, easy for me to get to from any part of town. I can drop in to any class, they teach from the beginning every time. Every instructor is welcoming and great at what they do. They have a good online presence with schedule and descriptions of classes and prices. Classes seem to be mixed skill level and I always feel comfortable. There are more and more guys in classes now, which is great to see. The word on the street is that they are getting tannning beds.... SA-Weet! read more

I'm a former ballerina who's spent the last few years in and out of all kinds of dance forms, from ballroom to contemporary to hip hop. I was in town in Portland for just a few days and decided to give this spot a try - I am SO thankful that I did! Evie, the studio owner, is a phenomenal dancer and teacher, and every class with her was an absolute joy. I went thinking I'd take maybe a couple of classes...I ended up taking 8 in two days. The pieces that all the teachers choreographed will make you feel sexy, badass, and inspired. Be prepared to sweat, and know that if you don't have any dance background it's going to be a bit of a catch up game for a few rounds, but it will 100% be worth your while. I can't recommend this place enough! read more

Nestled in the burgeoning SE industrial area, this studio is off the grid. Original hardwood floors and exposed brick walls hearken the tradition of dance studios while a massive graffiti tag covers the north wall, injecting color, attitude, mood and fresh into the space. With formats ranging from hip hop to burlesque, students come here to shakey shakey, flash their ice, and everything in between, no doubt. It's an adult based studio, on a schedule that works with the schedule of the working. A studio as raw as the talent it inspires, they understand that everyone starts somewhere. The instructors remember your name, make jokes in class, and never forget what it feels like to learn. Whether you're seasoned or completely green, there is room for you here. read more

Heading to Vega was the best thing that's happened to me, dance wise. From the teachers to the physical studio itself, everything about Vega makes you want to come back for more. The teachers are ridiculously talented and creative, each having their own unique style. Whether you're a first timer or a seasoned dancer, there's something for you at Vega. The music is hot, the choreography is always fun and the staff are all clear and skilled instructors. Also, if you've never taken a dance class or just want some advice, the owner herself is happy to help you find the right fit for you. Vega is an open and welcoming dance studio. There isn't a better way to sweat, get in shape and have a blast while doing it. read more

This place is where it all started for me. I am now a working dancer in portland, i will forever be thankful for the amount of trainning i got from the great staff at that studio. It continues to challenge me, their peaceful and welcoming energy keeps bringing great positive and driven students in. Go take class at this studio!!! read more

The studio was way over crowded for Thursday night burley q, and the instructor didn't split us into groups until the last 10 minutes. I was dancing into either brick wall brick wall, a dancer or a support beam the entire time. Why would you put a dance studio in a room with so many support beams? So extremely frustrating. I like the vibe of the studio, everyone is really friendly and clearly there to have a good time. I wish I had the patients to try a street jazz class during a weekday afternoon, I've heard they are less full so I'd have more room to actually dance... but I don't have a spare $15 to spend on another class I might not like. read more

I went to BurlyQ with a friend who LOVES Vega. I'm a beginner and, though everyone insisted it was beginner-friendly, I felt totally overwhelmed and lost. The class was fast-paced and the teacher made comments about how people were dancing that made me think, "I wonder how critical he is being of me flopping around?!" That being said, I was practicing the dance all week, so I enjoyed myself some. There's plenty of parking around, but it's a crowded studio with no air conditioning. My recommendation? Go on a cold day with a friend who is your same dance skill level or skip this studio. read more

Age diversity, fun, and a good challenge--that's what you can expect to find at Vega Dance+Lab. I've been coming here for years now, but I still remember my first visit like it was yesterday. I walked in feeling nervous because I wasn't a seasoned dancer and my previous experiences trying to take dance classes in Portland had all resulted in finding myself in a room with professional dancers or 14-year-olds, in other words, total embarrassment. Vega was exactly what I had always dreamed of. The classes are typically brimming with a diverse mix of adults from all age ranges; as a 30-something, I feel like I'm the median age. Other students are welcoming and non-judgmental. The teachers are knowledgable, creative, and kind, yet they always push you to be your best and move past boundaries. The choreography and workouts are bold and sometimes challenging, but in a way that makes you feel proud of yourself when you leave. At this point, I think of Vega as my place of worship. I know that I can walk in feeling stressed out, and leave feeling elated. New dancers (and those who have never taken a class in their life) my advice to you is to come in and try a beginning or workout class with an open mind. You will probably end up falling in love like I did. read more

I took a few classes here when I moved to Portland last year. I've taken hip hop classes over many years, at the beginner level and just for fun. I think, to summarize, this organization needs to focus on quality of instruction. The teachers here are great dancers, but they are not skilled or enthusiastic about teaching. For me, beginner dance classes, are best when the focus is on fun, participation, good energy and learning. In contrast, the classes I experienced here seemed inexplicably serious and cold. read more

I've been dancing all my life and have taken classes all over the US and the classes at Vega are the worst. I went to several classes taught by different teachers hoping that I would eventually like it, but it just never did it for me. First of all, I never felt like I sufficiently worked out, which is my number one motivation in taking these classes. Secondly, the teachers do not put in any effort to make it fun. Instead, the atmosphere is cold and pretentious - I usually came out of the classes feeling bad about myself for not getting the choreography right. These negative feelings only got worse after an incident with the 7 class package deal. I bought one in the fall thinking I could use it over a long period of time, since that is typically how it works at other studios. I was dead wrong. You have to use up your entire package in just 30 days! So one day I came to take a class, and the owner snapped at me about how they wouldn't make any money if they didn't impose a time limit. Needless to say, they will not be getting any more money from me. read more

Having only dabbled at dance in the past, the negative reviews here made me a little nervous. But I was pleasantly surprised by how much fun I had though I only had 50% of the choreography down. My advice, don't just try to only master the moves but also remember to count. If you're counting and don't know the moves just make something up! Don't expect to learn the whole routine your first time, today is my third time and I finally got 95% of it down! Just dance it out and have fun :D read more

I really wanted to love this studio, but I just didn't. Here's the thing: Vega bills themselves as an all levels adult dance studio, but unless you already have years of technique under your belt, don't go to any classes other than beginner classes. The lyrical teacher (whose name I don't even know because he began the class by barking orders), is a gorgeous dancer. If I met him in a bar on a Friday night I'd adore him. However...a teacher? Not yet. 2 new students in a small class of about 8, and there was not so much as a hello, let alone an introduction and debriefing about our dance experience, injuries or sensitivity to different speeds of learning. Why would Vega go out of their way to market themselves to mature adults at all levels when they are really catering to the experienced, and young dancers who populate the classes. Why not just tell it like it is? Oh, and the floor is awful. Splinterville, and there are even some holes in it and huge pillars (maybe 6 of them?) awkwardly split the room. Furthermore, I reached out to ask a question via phone and email and received zero response to either. read more

I've danced at just about all of the dance studios in the Portland area, and now as an adult and seeking to take dance classes that are challenging, fun, and engaging, this studio is perfect. The teachers are nice, talented, give a good class, and make things interesting. I have a lot of training, but I don't want something that is too intense. The classes are generally a range of ages and levels so you don't have to be a trained dancer to attend. I recommend this studio to all levels of dancers, but especially those looking for a fun environment to learn cool dance moves without much pressure. I would say this is more so for the recreational dancer though than someone who is looking to make it their profession. It is also a much more fun work out than a fitness class and pretty reasonably priced when you buy a set of classes. read more

Fame, Flashdance....Vega! The industrial, warehousy location of this studio is what gives it its flavor- A two story destination- You enter on the first floor, sign up, and make your way up to the 2nd floor large open space studio. I went with two of my friends to the Tease and Tone class, which was a blast (and a workout!). The teacher is a great mix of fun and fearceness that motivates you to bust a move. They offer a ton of classes and you can even sign up for a set of classes at a discount. A great, fun workout/dance class all in one! read more

Great dance studio space near the Montage. I picked up a set of 8-week passes for myself and my wife for her b-day. Neither of us have any real dance experience, but we thought it'd be fun to do the intro hip-hop. It is a blast, and decent exercise. Very cool venue. Pros: - Amazing location. Straight out of a movie set. - The owners and more serious dancers are nice and welcoming. - $8(ish) per class and cheaper if you buy in advance. - Drop-in schedule. Come when you want. No requirement to attend every week. - You can attend any class that you please. Just show up and have a pass. Cons: - I'm one of the two guys out of thirty ladies in the intro hip-hop class. If I wasn't married, this would be a big pro. I'm married. - You really have to try and dance. Expect to be awful until you practice a bit. read more

So the perspective of this reviewer is based on little to no dance history, a body that is no longer a size 4, and a 25th birthday about 25 years ago! That said, I absolutely love Vega! The drop in format fits perfectly with a busy career, and even though the teachers aren't necessarily there to hold your hand, the positive attitude, upbeat spirit, and emphasis on both fun, improvement and exercise is quite impressive. Sure, it's intimidating to start the process when you have no idea what to do and your greatest hope is to stay upright and not collide with your fellow dancers, but with self patience and perseverance, it gets a lot better. Taking four to six classes a week really helped to become familiar with the different instructors and types of choreography. Jazz, Hip Hop, CardioFunk and Burly Q have become highlights of my week. All in all, Vega is a learning experience, work out and antidepressant all rolled into one amazing package. Keep up the great work, Evie and gang, it's greatly appreciated! read more

I have attended 2 classes at vega, both by the same instructor for burly q on thursdays. I have no interest in coming back for that class because of instructor style. If any of the other classes sounded interesting to me and also worked with my schedule I would happily try them, but sadly they don't. As a studio Vega is clean, visually appealing, and also pretty welcoming. The guy at the front desk was very helpful and excited to greet me and a friend of mine as new students. However most of the other students I encountered were 'regulars' and were not interested in talking. I would tend to agree with what a few other reviews have stated in that Vega is not as "all-level" as they claim to be. In short: Vega is a nice studio for more experienced dancers who are ok with instructors who are great at doing, but maybe not so great at teaching. If you are not a beginner dancer don't let my review ward you off, but if you are looking for entry level classes I might look elsewhere if I were you. ( I also have a large amount of disdain for the type of music I have heard played at all of the classes I have watched and attended here. And I don't believe in "hairography".) read more

The first thing that hit me when I walked in the door was a stinky chemical smell. I thought maybe they had recently painted some walls. I asked, the receptionist said no. It smelled like a toxic place to dance, but I thought maybe they just cleaned and it would go away. Then the class...we spent a few minutes warming up, then did some push ups and then learned a dance routine. At the very end of class we 'performed' the dance. Maybe 5 minutes of cardio in the whole hour? Total waste of time as the reason I come to a 'cardio' dance class is for the workout. This was NOT a very good workout! Also, the mirrors were super cheap and made us all look distorted...depressing place to dance. read more

I've really enjoyed the few classes I've taken at Vega and feel comfortable there as a beginner. So here are the pros and cons of Vega Dance Lab: Pros: 1. Very affordable 2. Caters to all levels 3. Great variety of classes 4. Welcoming staff and teachers 5. Convenient location Cons: 1. There are pillars in the middle of the dance floor 2. The floor is far from smooth 3. There are dust bunnies everywhere! Please take a shop vac to the whole studio (stairs, corners, etc.) Although there seem to be a fair amount of cons, I will continue to go there because I love the classes, the price, convenience, atmosphere and staff. I'm sure as they continue to grow, they will make improvements to the building itself. read more

Moved to Portland area just over 6 months ago and last month I decided I would like to get back into dance (hadn't done a dance class in 8 years but once upon a time I did competition dance and led a drill team in Texas). I found Vega on instagram and gave it a shot. The dance space isn't super luxe looking but I didn't expect that really. The girl at the front desk was really friendly and didn't give me any type of cold vibe so that was a good start. I will say, if you haven't taken a single dance class before you may be a bit lost. I had never done hip hop so I opted to take a beginner/intermediate hip hop class and the instructor is wonderfully energetic but that tends to come with a fast paced atmosphere. They do invite questions and encourage everyone to ask for clarification or review, however. I always leave happy and feeling like I had a nice workout even though my 5'11 gangly self may not look super cool doing hip hop style dance. One thing I will say is that being a super newb to all things Portland and this studio in specific, it can come off as a bit cliquish. I went without a friend or anything so maybe that's why but if you want to dance front and center behind the instructor because you arrived early or whatever, good luck not being passive aggressively pushed to the back by girls who seem to think they're professional backup dancers. Overall, don't have much to say that's bad about this place and I loveee dancing again. read more

I love dance so much and at first I thought I found a great studio in Vega given their pricing and classes but soon became completely turned off by this place and here's why: 1) there are several columns in the middle of the whole dance floor. I hit my arm pretty hard on one doing some choreography there. These columns are also not conducive when taking a contemporary or lyrical class where you are required to move around more. 2) the dance floor is dirty and I witnessed someone with an open bleeding cut on their feet dancing in bare feet on their floor. Gross, especially when you are doing movement on the floor. Definitely a health code violation. I have studied dance at many studios and was even the person responsible for cleaning after each class so I could tell they do not clean their floors and I fear they never have cleaned them. Pretty alarming when people sweat and bleed on them. Plus the floors are old and I've seen splinters too. That's not safe when you are dancing bare foot. 3) some of the teachers and long time patrons were not friendly and cliquey. It's supposed to be an adult studio not high school. 4) the owner, Evie, is mean and not fun. She has a piss poor attitude and talks down to students like they are 5 and have been naughty. She does not have a dance background and has a cheer leading background so her hip hop choreography is very cheerleader. No offense at all to cheerleaders, I just enjoy studying dance and choreography as an art form. Plus some of her techniques are not taught in a way that would keep someone from getting hurt. I have a fitness tech and dance background and found that her transitions and choreography could lead to injuries. 5) The last straw for me though was when I left class early one day I walked down the stairs to find Evie and one of her employees gossiping and making fun of her patrons. Sadly, I can't support it. So if anyone knows of a studio teaching adult hip hop, etc. that isn't pretentious, is fun and clean...let me know! read more

If my first class at Vega had been Andrew's beginner/intermediate hip hop class, I would have walked out the door and never looked back at Vega. His snide remarks about how the class wasn't "trying" and was "wasting time" when we "paid at least $15 for the class" (believe me, Andrew, that wasted money was not lost on me) because we couldn't keep up with his advanced dance moves (read: well beyond beginner/intermediate) was appalling. Meanwhile, he honed in on his very advanced-level clique of friends in the front row and all but ignored the rest of the class. It was a humiliating and miserable hour I wish I could have back. He's awful--avoid him, especially if you are new to dance classes. The other reviewers are correct in that Vega is not a dance school. Regardless, Carrie, Deandre, Allison, and Evie's classes are fun and inspiring, even for beginners. It's fast-paced, upbeat, and very hip. I especially enjoy Tease & Tone and Cardiofunk--I forget I'm working out! read more

I adore this studio! Going to the gym is terrible, but popping in for a class or two at Vega is perfect. I started dancing when I was three and continued through high school, but I stopped in college/grad school. This studio was exactly what I needed to get back into it. There are classes for a variety of abilities and styles, which is wonderful. Every once and a while I find myself tripping over my own feet, but it's a very relaxed, non-judgmental environment... if you don't get it the first (or fifth) time, just keep at it and it will come... and if you're really struggling, just ask and the instructors will go over it again :) I love every class I've taken, I just wish I had more time to come in and shake my groove thing more often!! read more

My girls have been coming here for a few years now for gymnastics. The coaches are great and the kids have a great time. We got moved up to the team and never looked back. We have also experienced the dance side of things. They put on a yearly recital that is one of the best I have seen. Whether gymnastics or dance you can't go wrong. read more