When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
BodyVox
Why BodyVox is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
BodyVox is a vibrant dance company located in Portland, Oregon, known for its innovative and entertaining dance performances that uplift audiences of all ages. It offers a great atmosphere for friends to meet and enjoy creative expressions through contemporary dance that blends humor and compelling choreography. The company is celebrated for its invigorating classes taught by excellent instructors who balance challenge and accessibility, leaving participants with a sense of joy and accomplishment. Beyond classes, BodyVox provides captivating dance productions that often include playful reimaginings of classics such as "Romeo and Juliet" and "A Midsummer Night's Dream," accompanied by unique touches like champagne for the audience, enhancing the experience. This blend of artistic excellence and welcoming community makes BodyVox a great place to connect with friends while enjoying inspiring dance artistry. Its ranking among the best media companies to work for in Oregon also hints at its positive cultural environment and commitment to creativity.
Here's what people think of BodyVox
As of recent, BodyVox holds a 4.9-star rating based on 82 reviews.
Customer reviews for BodyVox are overwhelmingly positive, reflected by a high rating of 4.9 from 82 reviews. Many users appreciate the quality of the dance classes, describing them as perfectly balanced between not too easy and not too challenging, with praise for the excellent teachers who foster a joyful, uplifting environment. The dance productions receive accolades for their creativity and entertaining nature, often highlighted by humorous and imaginative renditions of classical works. Positive reviews frequently mention the welcoming atmosphere and how attendees leave feeling happy and inspired. However, some complaints surfaced regarding issues with membership management, specifically difficulties with canceling subscriptions via email and lack of direct customer service phone contact. While these concerns were noted, at least one complaint mentioned that the company responded and refunded payment promptly. Overall, the positive feedback about the artistic experience and community engagement outweighs the administrative complaints, making BodyVox a well-loved institution for dance enthusiasts and audiences alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nathan Havner
I'm a huge fan of BodyVox. I danced in a past life (late nineties) and am picking it back up again. I have tried their Modern, Contemporary, Tap, Jazz Funk, K-Pop, and several Ballet classes, all over the last year. The front desk staff are extremely helpful - they will work with you if you are having a hard time making ends meet but really want to take a class. Three teachers in particular have really stood out to me - Asteria, Haru, and Alana. (It was hard to just pick three!). These three individuals embody the core mission of BodyVox - to challenge every mover to find their most expressive self, and to motivate that self to shine. If you're visiting Portland, new to the area, or, like me, getting back into a misplaced passion, I can think of no better place to get started than BodyVox!
Allison Hammond
My daughter started ballet through the youth program at BodyVox when she was 5. She's now in her second year and loving her classes with Miss Kennedy. I am the farthest thing from a dance mom, I grew up a total tomboy but yet my daughter really wants to dance! I highly recommend this place to all, but especially those looking for a friendly, open and welcoming place to receive high quality dance instruction. Elenaluisa is building a wonderful youth program with many options for kiddos but without any pretention or judgement. There are no requirements for leotards or any of the fussiness that might come with dance instruction, just an engaged community that I'm so happy our family has become a part of! Oh and the summer camps were a hit too, highly recommend!
Liz Pancoast
Our kiddo just performed in the kids’ showcase after a semester of hip hop classes. Asteria is so fun, lovely and supportive. We love the community at BodyVox!
Mary Elizabeth Lloyd
Take class here twice a week and plan to come more once I save up enough. The teachers are phenomenal and I’m always being challenged. 10/10 would recommend.
Victoria Nelthropp
Best dance studio in Portland! I've been taking Beginning Ballet with Heather Jackson for over a year and couldn't be happier!! She is truly such an amazing teacher who really has a knack for helping her students learn in a way that feels personalized and also so very warm and inviting! The entire studio staff is incredible and has become one of the true joys of my week. I've made great friends through the classes as well! I did not have any dance experience before starting at BodyVox and my time there has really helped me to gain confidence in dance through ballet! I find that dance truly helps with my mental health as it forces me out of mind and into my body and reminds me the power of being in the present moment
How to reach BodyVox
None
Website: None
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family is about creating memorable moments, and BodyVox offers the perfect environment to do just that. This vibrant dance center, located in the heart of Portland, Oregon, radiates a warm and welcoming energy that invites guests to connect through movement and shared experiences. With its spacious, beautifully designed studios, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and a thoughtfully crafted lounge area, BodyVox is more than just a dance center – it’s a community hub where people come together to celebrate creativity and joy. Whether your group is looking for a fun way to stay active, an inspiring setting to witness innovative dance performances, or a casual place to relax and socialize, BodyVox caters to all those desires in a seamlessly integrated space. The nearly perfect 4.9-star rating from over 80 reviews underscores the consistently positive experiences that visitors report. Rallying at BodyVox isn’t just about attending a class or a show; it’s about engaging with a place that nurtures connection, creativity, and celebration, making it an outstanding choice to host your next meetup.
What activities does BodyVox offer that make it perfect for groups?
BodyVox hosts a wide variety of dance classes and workshops suitable for all skill levels, making it a dynamic venue for group activities. Whether your group consists of beginners eager to try a new form of movement or seasoned dancers seeking challenging choreography, the Center offers classes that strike a perfect balance of accessibility and engagement. The teaching staff is renowned for their excellence, combining expertise with a friendly approach that ensures everyone in your group feels supported and motivated. Beyond regular classes, BodyVox showcases captivating live dance performances, often infused with innovative choreography and striking visuals that engage audiences of all ages. These performances provide a thrilling cultural experience for groups to enjoy together, fostering lively discussion and shared appreciation afterward. Additionally, the Center provides a spacious lounge area, which is an ideal spot for socializing before or after classes and performances. This welcoming space encourages group bonding in a relaxed atmosphere, rounding out the experience and making it a holistic venue suitable for friendly gatherings or family outings.
How does the environment and staff at BodyVox enhance group meetups?
One of the standout features of BodyVox is the atmosphere itself—a vast, well-lit, and aesthetically pleasing space that inspires creativity and comfort. This expansive facility is designed to accommodate groups easily, allowing everyone to feel comfortable whether you’re attending a class or watching a show. The layout includes a dedicated lounge area, which acts as a social hub where your group can unwind, share refreshments, and enjoy downtime together without interruption. The staff contributes significantly to this hospitable environment; their knowledgeable, warm, and approachable demeanor ensures that members of your group, regardless of dance experience, are welcomed genuinely and assisted thoughtfully. This level of personalized service creates a sense of ease and belonging that elevates group meetups beyond a simple outing. Knowing you’ll be met with professionalism and kindness allows your group to focus on the fun and meaningful connections that naturally unfold in an environment where everyone feels valued.
What types of performances can groups expect to enjoy at BodyVox?
BodyVox is recognized for its innovative dance company and live performances that push artistic boundaries while still maintaining mass appeal. For groups, attending a performance at BodyVox is not just about seeing dance; it’s an immersive cultural experience marked by arresting visuals, creative choreography, and energetic performances that often elicit enthusiastic audience responses. Many have described the atmosphere as electric, with audiences openly engaging through applause and cheers, breaking away from traditional, more reserved theater etiquette. Performances range in style and theme but consistently embody artistic refinement and creative passion—qualities that stimulate conversation and shared reflection long after the show ends. For those unable to attend in person, BodyVox offers filmed versions of these shows, extending the possibility of group viewing at the Center or other comfortable settings. These performances make ideal group outings since they combine entertainment, artistic inspiration, and social interaction into one memorable event that friends and families can cherish together.
What makes BodyVox a unique and valuable choice compared to other venues for group meetups?
BodyVox stands out as a venue that goes beyond merely having a large space to gather; it integrates artistic innovation, community spirit, and inclusive programming to create a truly unique meetup experience. Unlike many conventional event spaces, BodyVox aligns physical activity and artistic expression with social engagement, offering an unmatched combination where your group can both participate actively or be inspired as spectators. The expertise of its instructors and performance artists is a testament to the quality of programming that guests can expect. Additionally, the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making it a place where all participants feel that their presence enriches the community. Financially, the venue is supported by a lean but passionate team and a strong reputation for quality, fostering an environment where resources are focused on maximizing the guest experience. Whether your group is seeking an educational, cultural, or simply fun outing, BodyVox offers a tailor-made experience that nurtures connection, creativity, and joy in a way few other venues can match.
How can groups best plan their visit to BodyVox for maximum enjoyment?
Planning your group visit to BodyVox can enhance the overall meetup experience by aligning your activities with the Center’s offerings and atmosphere. Start by reviewing the class schedule to select a session that suits the group’s interest and skill level, whether it be modern dance, ballet, improv, or another exciting form. Booking in advance is recommended to accommodate your group size and ensure everyone can participate together. Consider timing your visit to coincide with one of BodyVox’s live performances for a shared cultural experience that adds excitement to your gathering. Utilize the lounge area to create intentional moments for social interaction—perhaps bringing light refreshments to enjoy before or after classes and shows. Communicate with the staff beforehand if you have special requests or need accommodations; their helpfulness will ensure a smooth visit. By thoughtfully combining active participation, artistic appreciation, and social bonding, your group will leave BodyVox with not only memories of movement and performance but also deeper connections forged through a shared encounter with this distinguished dance center.