★ 5

I feel challenged in the best way! I enjoy learning and engaging with the dance community here in pdx. The studio offers many ways to engage depending on your availability/interest

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★ 5

Exceptional dance instructor -- Belly dance

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★ 5

LOVE IT HERE! I've been taking bachata classes and I can’t recommend Deblin and Adayl enough! They are absolutely amazing instructors - so much fun, very skilled and patient! Not to mention genuinely welcoming to everyone, no matter your experience level. I’ve seen the way they interact with each student and they care deeply about teaching and creating a positive space. The other instructors, classes, and workshops offered at VMAC are fantastic too. So many fun options to learn and grow and dance! Highly recommended!

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★ 5

Great class environment and the highly qualified instructors have a very organized, engaging, and purposeful approach to teaching. Service at the desk has always been friendly and helpful. The studio is comfortable and spacious.

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★ 5

VMAC has always felt like such a welcoming, warm place to dance. I love how friendly the instructors are and the variety of classes they have. Always recommend checking them out for a good night!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Nothing else like it in Portland, likely all of Oregon; love that it's a non-profit, great teachers, and for all ages. Read the mission statement about why dance is necessary.

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★ 5

I have been taking classes for about 9 months now. I really love my salsa and bachata instructors - Jamal, Carolina, Deblin and Adayl are awesome. I have done swing dancing for years but new to Latin dancing so I have taken many classes over the years and I am impressed with their clear instructions, their inclusiveness and friendliness, and they focus on not just dance moves but also musicality and lead/follow tips, and different "shines" that are fun. They are also trying to create a community of people. I have made some new friends here and we practice together!

Other things that I really enjoyed are: they post videos of the class work after so you can practice/review, practicas every week that are free so you can get to practice and hone in your technique with help of experienced dancers, student and open socials that provide a safe, fun environment to practice what you learned! They have individual monthly class or monthly unlimited options if you want to take more classes.

Level 1 classes can be popular so sign up early. After Level 1, classes are smaller. Also they rotate leads after a few minutes so you get to practice with many different people and actually learn how to dance instead of just learning a routine. If you want to just dance with your partner in the dance class, you can also take private lessons.

This is a great dance studio, I am glad they are part of our community and I felt like I am becoming a part as well.

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★ 5

Had a lovely time here - the instructors are kind, inclusive and good communicators. I also like the diversity of people coming here. I made some new friends (after 40, it is hard to make friends!). They host a lot of community events where they provide a safe environment to practice with more advanced dancers. Teachers show up and dance with you if you want. You get great feedback. Level 1 classes can be big, but if you move up from level 1, the classes are much smaller. Highly recommend Jamaal, Carolina and Deblyn and her partner whose name escapes me. Also they have practicas where ambassadors (high level students) come and help you with the dances! FOr free!

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★ 5

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★ 5

I rated a 10 because I absolutely love the energy and community at the studio. The classes are always lively and full, so I never worry about not having someone to dance with. I also really appreciate how you balance the leads and follows by bringing in assistants when needed, it makes such a difference.

The instructors are not only fun and entertaining, but they make a very challenging dance feel approachable and enjoyable to learn. I love the variety of class options, and I value how seriously you take the learning process by making sure we’re confident before moving up.

On top of that, I feel genuinely appreciated and cared for. When I returned after being away this summer, I was welcomed back so warmly, and that meant a lot. I’ve already referred friends (and even talked with my partner about joining), and I’ll continue to recommend the studio because it’s such a special, supportive, and inspiring place to dance.

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★ 5

Absolutely love VMAC, the studios are gorgeous, the vibes are top notch. Very friendly and welcoming atmosphere in a stunning space. The teachers are all warm and professional.

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★ 5

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★ 1

Do not bother with this studio. The teachers here arent very talented but they are very cliquey. Go to Lines or Shawn Gardner where you don't have to kiss up to the teacher to be included and have a good time.

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★ 5

Great owners that make for a comfortable fun environment!

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★ 1

I didn’t care for the belly dancing class offered here at all and wouldn’t return and definitely wouldn’t recommend. I wasn’t even going to leave a review until talking to another dancer and they said I should totally warn others with my experience.

I think it’s due to the instructor mostly, unfortunately. But the studio does not do a very good job actually showing or telling what this class entails. The webpage gives the most vague and brief class description, but doesn’t touch on what the class is actually like or what you’ll learn and the social media channels have a TON of info and videos of basically every other class VMAC offers and literally ONE rarely seen recycled video of belly dance, that still doesn’t actually show anything. Very very difficult to gauge what you’re getting into.
Not to mention there were a TON of people in the first few classes. Did you all overbook this class? There was hardly enough space for us all to stand in the room together without touching - which gets pretty gross in a non ventilated room like we were in. I asked the teacher if that’s the normal amount of people and she said that she knows some will drop out (which brings me to the points below) but that kind of sucks that you all count on people dropping to make enough actual space considering we can’t take this class as a drop in or feel it out before spending $$$ on buying a package.

Then the class itself…Clearly the belly dance class here is just for people that want to just move and not for anyone that wants to actually learn belly dance technique (in that case fine! Have fun!). The instructor goes SOO fast and doesn’t repeat instructions unless you ask - and even then she still may not unless a lot of people chime in basically begging her to slow down and actually show us the movements in steps. She straight up told someone “it’s not that important and we don’t have time” to go over some step that was asked about that NONE of us could get down. We don’t have time?? In the class meant for this? She does not really show you what you’re moving, what muscle groups it is, what the goal of the movement is, or what not to do. Several times we had to ask her to slow down and take a moment to actually explain. Possibly she’s rushing through it because we only have one hour which includes warm up and cool down.

And then another class starts damn near immediately afterwards, doesn’t give students much of a chance to grab things, put shoes back on etc. our instructor told us to ask questions in the hallway after the class, which isn’t helpful if you wanted to revisit a move. One older woman wasn’t able to keep up and had asked her if she could film the instructor doing the 30 second choreography so she could practice and the instructor straight up was like “oooh yeah no, we don’t have time”. Mind you it’s basically after class, the other teachers for the other class were barely coming in (they were just chatting and putting their things down) - our teacher most definitely had a few minutes and could have done the 30 seconds of choreography foot work for the woman or could have AT LEAST done it in the hallway for her instead of just being like “hmmm yikes yeah no” (and it wasn’t about being filmed- it was about “time”). That was shocking to me considering we paid a good amount of money for that class. Your job is to teach us and to help us feel secure and confident in the moves not to rush us out.

It felt as if she could barely be bothered to teach. Super disappointing experience and makes me not even want to explore other classes here, though I know they are taught by others (thank god).

As someone who has done belly dance before in a different style, this class felt disrespectful to the art of belly dance to be honest. May as well not teach it if you don’t want to be bothered to do any due diligence to actually help your students along with it. OR at least add to the class description that it’s belly dance inspired movement class or something.

Source: Google

★ 2

We are a married couple, registered to enjoy a dance class together. At the beginning of the first class we were taken aback when, without asking anyone for consent, instructors informed us that we must “rotate” because there are not enough people to lead.

The description of the class did not include that we have to dance with total strangers or dance alone. Yes, a partner is not required to register. So why people who made a decision to come without a partner should be expected to dance with mine? They could be practicing with other people that came alone or with instructors.

Over the years, we took classes at different studios. Never before we were put in such uncomfortable situation. They won’t refund money for the rest of the session, so we either have to count our loses or announce in class that we won’t be rotating partners.

The facility is clean. Parking is difficult to find.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

TL:DR This is a welcoming place to learn dance and have fun in equal measure.

I've been taking zouk classes at Vitalidad for over a year and I love the learning environment and culture. The instructors, ambassadors, and students are welcoming and positive. The classes are big, but I like that because dancing with a lot of people is really helpful for learning faster. The social dances are fun and the instructors are always setting the tone for folks to dance across levels and help new folks feel welcome. I think most folks here are as excited to dance with someone just starting their journey as with someone who has years of experience. Big shout out to the ambassadors as well! Y'all rock!

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★ 5

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★ 5

VMAC is the best! I love my dance family!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

It's been a little over 6 months of classes at VMAC, so I thought I would update my review.

I love this dance studio.

I have taken level 1 and 2 classes for Bachata, Salsa, West Coast swing and Lindy Hop classes.(Currently only offering level 1) I have been to several of their socials, VMAC instructor led workshops, (the Lead and Follow workshop is a must) workshops with world renowned dancers and I take advantage of the free Practica lesson for my classes. (Level 1 is after class, level 2 is before class) I have found all of the instructors to be incredibly knowledgeable about the history and origins of the dances they are teaching. They even have a workshop/lecture for Salsa where you have the opportunity to learn the cultural origins of the dance. In the very first Lindy Hop class each month they stress the importance of preserving the cultural integrity of the dance. VMAC makes it so clear that dance is for everyone and that everyone can feel welcome in their space to learn about, explore and enjoy other cultures without the assumption of someone's role based on race or perceived gender. That level of inclusivity is a wonderful feeling in our current world where we are being constantly torn apart based on our differences instead of coming together as a global community where our differences make us stronger together.
I love that the team at VMAC are also an integral part of the Portland dance community as a whole. They are out dancing at other socials around town and participate in non-VMAC led events. They encourage you to approach them to say hello or, because all of their ambassadors and instructors have Safer Dance Spaces training, to come to them in the event someone on the dance floor is making you uncomfortable. That's community.

I love what you're doing VMAC. Your studio has brought me confidence, joy, fun and laughter. I'll keep coming back to dance with you!

_______________________________________________
I have been having a great time at VMAC so far. I have been taking the beginners bachata and salsa classes. Of course we're all slightly awkward but I really enjoy the moderate pace of the classes and all my interactions with fellow students and teachers have been fun, relaxed and encouraging. The complimentary practica classes afterwards have been very helpful. They have a few "ambassadors" teaching the practica so you have more opportunity for one on one assistance. Some of the ambassadors are also in the classes to assist with the partner dancing. It's so helpful to have some more experienced folks helping out in class. I am really look forward to progressing in my skills and continuing classes through VMAC, but I love that it isn't a pretentious, showy, exclusive dance studio. I am learning the foundations of these beautiful dances and I feel super welcomed and comfortable learning here.

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★ 5

VMAC has been one of the most transformative spaces in my dance journey. What stands out most is how genuinely inclusive they are. Right at the front desk and in the first class of each month, they remind everyone that anyone can choose to either role of the dance: lead or follow.

The studio creates a culture of open feedback and constant growth. I started as a student and now I am a bachata ambassador. The training is both rigorous and rooted in the fundamentals. Each level builds in complexity, but I still learn something new every time I retake Level 1. It is a great reminder that foundations matter at every stage.

I have also seen the owners handle difficult situations with care and use them as opportunities to support the community and create a respectful space. It is clear they truly care.

VMAC is more than a place to dance. It is a place to grow, and I am proud to keep growing with it.

Source: Google

★ 2

If you're looking for authentic Latin dance, this is not the place. The instructors are mostly white and the atmosphere doesn’t reflect the rich cultural roots of the dances. It feels like a trend here, not a tradition.

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★ 5

I absolutely love this studio! Highly recommend it. I have been taking salsa classes for about 7 months. The teachers are very fun, supportive and professional. I also love the community that they create and support. We have regular salsa socials so I can always practice my new skills in a social setting and keep improving. I especially recommend Carolina & Jamal's class and all of the ambassadors are wonderful. Come dance with us!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been taking salsa at VMAC for about 8 months. So many great things to say. The instructors are phenomenal.

The studio makes dance accessible to beginners, while creating a pipeline with opportunities to help you advance and become a part of the dance community - classes with thoughtfully leveled up curriculum, workshops, the ability to join the competition team, etc. Along the way they teach you about different styles of salsa music and dance and their origin.

One of my favorite things about VMAC is they’re really focused on encouraging people to go social dancing - helping dancers experience what is truly the best part of learning salsa.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a great dance studio with a variety of dance styles. The instructors are very patient and welcoming. It's an amazing part of the latin dance community in Portland.

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★ 5

I had felt I would never learn how to dance, but the instructors are amazing, funny, and down to earth. I have come a long way and have learnt a bunch !!
I'll keep taking classes and going to the socials(very safe space to learn).

Thanks!!

Source: Google

★ 1

The teachers at VMAC talk a lot about community, but it didn’t feel inclusive. There's a strong vibe of cultural appropriation—teaching Latin dances without any effort to understand or honor their cultural significance. That’s not okay.

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★ 5

Amazing instructors, really lovely community, we are so lucky to have VMAC in Portland. I'm really grateful that the Zouk ambassadors give their time and that VMAC includes the practica as an additional opportunity for students to work together in a low pressure environment.

Thanks for making VMAC an amazing place!

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★ 5

Tara and Brendan were enthusiastic, clear and welcoming. It made for the perfect introductory experience.

Edit (4 months later): Branden and Tara are awesome! They make salsa 1 and 2 really approachable. It's my 5th month taking salsa at VMAC with Branden and Tara and I will absolutely continue. Thanks to VMAC I am passionate about salsa.

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★ 5

I've been to a lot of dance studios and this is one of my favorites. The instructors and ambassadors are wonderful. I love the detailed and thoughtful instruction and feel like a lot of effort is put into helping each participant succeed.
—Mila

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★ 5

Such great quality instruction! Carolina and Jamal are amazing :)

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★ 5

Everything was set up very organized and clean. The instructor was extremely helpful and professional. I walked out of the class feeling like I had learned a few good basics, and it was a great workout. I will definitely be signing up for more classes immediately!

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★ 5

Excellent experience learning from instructors and the practica that followed the class.

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★ 5

Very friendly teachers and staff, enjoy dancing with other students, practica and mentors are very helpful, facility is nice, clean, inviting, nice neighborhood, ample parking nearby.

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★ 1

The process of canceling a class at Vitalidad Movement Arts Center is an absolute nightmare. It's buried under multiple layers of menus, and the instructions are hidden. I’ve been calling for two weeks and never received a single callback. It wasn’t until I physically showed up at the studio that I finally got the information I needed. The staff I spoke to today couldn’t care less, and when I explained my frustration, their response was, “It’s on there.” Yeah, after digging for it!

If they had simply returned my call, I wouldn’t have wasted my time coming to the studio. This level of disorganization, poor customer service, and poorly structured children's classes are the reasons I'm canceling. I live two blocks away, but after this experience, I will never be joining any of their classes.

Do better, Vitalidad.

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★ 5

I recently hosted an event at VMAC new space. We enjoyed our time in your and created beautiful memories there.

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★ 5

I enjoyed heels and chair classes here and can’t wait to do more. Thanks to Sadee and Angel. I wish the classes were longer because they’re fun! I hope to see twerk classes in the future on the schedule too.

I’d also recommend coming at least 15 min early to find parking on the street, or pay for the garage next door.

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★ 5

Friendly environment, instructors were great!

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★ 5

VMAC has become an integral part of my life, it is has fostered a community of dancers that interact in multiple ways beyond dance, safe and inclusive and above all, warm.

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★ 5

This studio is great! I went to the Reggaeton class and will definitely be back. The instructor made the class fun, was encouraging, and my only complaint is that the class isn't offered more often!

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★ 5

Easy sign up, registration, and nice employees. Also a wide variety of dance classes available for all experience levels.

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★ 5

For the attentiveness of the staff, the way they make a nervous dancer feel confident is nothing short of transformative! Also the environment that they create is inclusive, fun and passionate. Love this place!

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★ 5

Donna is a great teacher and I look forward to taking more of her classes. Currently taking House.

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★ 5

Y’all, you really get your moneys worth here, I so loved the free practica after!! It was very helpful

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★ 5

Just took the beginner level breakdance class with Wally last week and it was awesome! I’m in my 40s with no real dance experience but his gentle vibes and enthusiastic encouragement made me feel completely comfortable with the learning experience.

Facilities are super clean, and the all user restroom stalls are very private. Front desk staff are friendly and overall everyone I encountered at the studio seemed stoked to be there.

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★ 5

I'm really enjoying the bachata classes here, and Deblin is a great teacher if you are interested in private lessons as well.

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★ 5

Phenomenal dance space with well curated programs. I love visiting and dancing at this studio when I'm in Portland.

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★ 5

The owner and operational team are incredibly organized and thoughtful of the dancers. This is a dream for out-of-town dancers such as myself. I love visiting this studio and this community. Warm, welcoming, and wonderful dancers!

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★ 5

The organizer Deblin does such an excellent job for events such as these, very thoughtful and well-planned, and really appreciate that limiting the attendees so they would have better experience rather than dealing with over-crowded spaces. Thank you Deblin and her great team!!!

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★ 5

I love VMAC! The socials are great- I love the atmosphere. Everyone is really friendly and I feel safe there. I also took a dance class for the first time and really enjoyed it!

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★ 5

The classes are instructive and enjoyable. The socials are fun with good music and company. It is great to have VMAC part of the neighborhood.

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★ 5

I had a great time in my class. Diana is both a great teacher and very welcoming. I am a complete beginner and was never made to feel out of place.

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★ 5

Great classes!

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★ 5

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★ 5

As challenging as my life has gotten, it’s crucial that I always know where my next oasis of Joy is. VMAC always delivers that for me – – especially classes like Daniel‘s Vogue class and WallE’s breakdancing class. Playful and challenging and sweaty fun — that doesn’t feel at all like the great exercise that it also is!

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★ 5

Angel was a great instructor it was fun and engaging. We need more Hip-Hop dance classes like that!!

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★ 3

I wanted to love this so bad, but it just wasn't it. Mind you, this is my first American dance class. I just spent a month in Colombia taking 4 hours of bachata a week with a 1:1 teacher for 20$ an hour. I learned so fast because I was learning one to one with a professional competitive dancer.

Learning bachata with a strong experienced lead makes a huge difference as being the woman, I'm supposed to follow. If the lead doesn't know what they're doing, as in the classes here, you not only learn a lot slower, but often learn incorrectly. I signed up for a full month of lessons here however, my first class was a turn off. The classes are extremely full. There might be 30 to 50 people in the room. I don't know what I was expecting. Maybe 15 or 20 equal men and women that you would get to know each other over the course of the month. Just something more intimate.

I also thought you would also dance with the teacher kind of get the feeling physically of what the correct dance looks like, however, this is not the case, you're just watching. It is also very fast-paced, so if you're neurodivergent or take a little bit to get the hang of things, it's probably not for you. Especially since the class is only an hour you only learn a little bit at a time, once a week in class. There's also really no time for you to like invest in learning a specific step, the 30-50 or whatever people in the room are all on the same clock, and one step is rushed to the next. After my first class I was looking into the cost of individual dance lessons here however they are ridiculously expensive at $100 an hour. I have a decent job, but still cannot afford that.

The location is also not that convenient unless you live in the general area and can walk. Parking is really difficult, it’s not right off the freeway or anything so if you live in another part of town, give yourself at least an extra 15 minutes to park and walk to the location.

I guess I will be back in Latin America soon to learn more one-to-one! Or maybe at a bar in Portland they'll teach us some steps

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★ 5

Excellent classes, amazing teachers, and such a rare gem for genuine community. Get to dancing y'all.

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★ 5

VMAC has been a life changing community for me. I came in with literally no experience dancing and their teaching style (focused on social dancing) was so patient, energetic, and intuitive. I took bachata classes with Deblin and Malik for 6 months, but have also attended workshops with Carolina, Jamal, and Chris and they are all fantastic educators. I would highly recommend this amazing community.

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★ 5

Love these folks and their approach! They teach you foundational moves and give you the skills to put them together on your own, creating real dancers

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★ 5

Took my salsa and bachata classes here, and I’m glad I did!! All of my instructors are great and very welcoming. I’ve learned alot from each and everyone one of them. I can’t wait to continue my knowledge in dancing at VMAC❤️

Source: Google

★ 5

I've tried many dance studios in the Portland area over the years and I always come back to VMAC. Classes are consistently high quality, organized, timely, and all the admin/front desk operations are smooth and highly communicative. Instructors and the owners actually care about their students and they've built a pretty incredible community over the last several years. I don't use the word community lightly- these people organize meal trains, check in when you've been out for awhile, and routinely ask for feedback. Not to mention this studio is home to the biggest Brazilian Zouk scene in Portland! No partner needed- just a desire to learn from some of the best in the area.

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★ 5

Vitalidad is an excellent dance studio for beginners and lifelong dancers alike. I've taken bachata, zouk and salsa lessons here for several years. All the instruction is high quality at a good price. The community welcomes everyone with a truly inclusive atmosphere. Go VMAC!

Source: Google

★ 5

For many years VMAC has consistently provided me with a safe space to develop my abilities as a dancer and to build community. The instructors plan their curriculum and lesson sequencing well, keeping content in the appropriate zone of approximate development for each level.

After being the victim of an assault, the staff did a remarkable job helping me to not just feel safe, but to actually be safe as I worked through my trauma and developed my ability to be close enough to people to dance. In my years with the community, I have seen the management of VMAC handle many interpersonal issues of similarly sensitive natures with respect, care and even-handedness.

While my primary experience is with the Zouk lessons at VMAC, I enjoyed the instruction of the Salsa and Bachata instructors when I took classes with them.

The Zouk community has undergone amazing growth in the time since most pandemic restrictions have lifted. The teachers, Chris and Deblin create safe conditions for learning by focusing on consent on and off the dance floor, safety in movement, and including everyone in the community, especially making sure that new people know that they are welcome.

Chris and Deblin consistently bring in world-class instructors to teach the community, and travel to train with experts to further develop their own teaching ability.

The cost of lessons is fair to students, especially compared to the costs of similar lessons in other communities. Additionally, free practica sessions allow students space and support to develop their dance outside of lessons and socials.

I'm excited for the new location to open, and to see how the community continues to grow in the new year. VMAC holds a special place in my heart.

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★ 5

The best instructors who make every class amazing! VMAC is not just a school but warm and inviting community.

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★ 5

People who make me feel like home, staff that are happy to see me, and teachers who are earnestly trying to build community. I love this place and highly recommend it.

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★ 2

Decent range of class offerings but the train tracks next to the studio mean you can’t hardly hear the teacher or the music sometimes. Not the best environment for learning something that requires listening.

Aside from that, when it comes to the teaching, it ranges from so-so to pretty good. Some of the best teachers are the ones with the lowest profile, IMO. I did not like the cult-like pressure in the Zouk community to act like the female teacher is the Queen B. It borders on creepy and contrived not sure why everyone there is always talking about using Zouk to relieve their trauma….What a way to lull compliant victim types into a hornets nest but that was just the vibe I got and some other students who also felt it was icky and left. The salsa situation is high energy with good teaching of technicalities but could maybe use more built in practice time. Bachata is fun every now and then although they over emphasize sensual and don’t seem to cover Dominican in the bachata class.

Dying to take heels and betting when I do this studio will earn more stars and I’ll update my review!

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★ 5

Love this space! Jamal, Carolina, Deblin and Malik are great instructors and go above and beyond to create a safe and inclusive space to learn to dance and express! Highly recommend it!

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★ 5

I started taking beginner salsa lessons here about 4 months ago, and I love this place. Jamal and Carolina are wonderul teachers who make it easy for you to understand each new step/choreography. The staff are also very friendly and welcoming. The whole vibe of the place is very open, a truly "come as you are" atmosphere. Glad to have found a new family in Portland (I am new in the area). Highy recommended.

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★ 5

I can't express my eternal gratitude for the quality of content and instructors at VMAC. Coming into a partner dance with little-to-no experience can be incredibly intimidating, but VMAC's intentionally curated curriculum and thoughtful approach to community building made the experience not only approachable, but fun and life-giving.

Speaking from personal experience and a background of trauma, I've been both pleasantly surprised and heartened by VMAC's approach to emphasizing safe dance spaces predicated on clear consent (both verbal and non-verbal). This concept is an active, ongoing part of the curriculum. I've seen the instructors handle challenging situations with expediency and care, allowing for growth, affirmation, and resolution for all parties involved. I've also seen myself and other dancers work through trauma and be able to build platonic connection through not only the training, but the examples we've seen set by our instructors, throughout our time and VMAC.

Moving beyond emotional safety and consent, VMAC also focuses on proper technique/form that keeps both leads and followers safe from physical injury. They aren't worried about "looking the coolest" at social events over the possibility of having longevity in one's dance career and having a firm set of foundational movements that become the platform for complexity once the dancer has advanced to that stage of personal development. When out-of-town instructors drop in for special workshops, they are consistently vocal about their positive impression of our foundations and how it makes it easier for them to build upon.

In a nutshell: VMAC is not only a place for skill-building, but incidentally a place for social, emotional, and physical healing + development.

As for individual instructors, I can say that both Chris and Deblin, who lead the Zouk community, are well loved and respected throughout the VMAC and extended Zouk communities. I've had the fortune the travel the world while dancing Zouk and have met many individuals across the global stage who know Deblin by name and comment on what a beautiful, connected, and talented dancer she is. She consistently provides us with honest and prudent feedback, and never creates a hostile learning environment. Both she and Chris POUR their time, heart, and attention into this community with little-to-no personal benefit from the individual time, attention, and care they show to us all. We are so fortunate to have them and have had various other communities express their desire to be part of one like what they've built.

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★ 5

I LOVE VMAC! I have been taking Zouk with Deblin and Chris for a little under a year now and am so happy with the entire experience. Also, Donna Oefinger teaches here! She is an incredibly amazing dancer in many forms. The other owners and instructors have all been so kind to me and I would, without hesitation, take their classes. The Zouk classes are challenging, fun, and supportive. They consistently bring in other amazing teachers from out of town for intensives. The community is WONDERFUL (I've made many good friends) and I feel incredibly safe in the space. I can't emphasize that last part enough, as social dancing has made me nervous and guarded in the past. I HIGHLY recommend VMAC.

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★ 5

I can’t recommened Vitalidad enough. This company has helped me take my dancing to the next level, has brought more fun and a great community into my life. Great dancing, great people.

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★ 5

Vitalidad Movement and Arts Center (VMAC) is where my love of dancing began. I started taking classes in September of 2021 and since then, dancing has become a passion of mine. I started taking salsa classes with Carolina and Jamal, then started taking Bachata at the same time, and then Zouk as well. Their classes are fun and welcoming, which kept me coming back for more. At VMAC, not only have I learned and grown so much as a dancer, but I have also found a welcoming and growing dance community.

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★ 5

VMAC is a wonderful dance studio. The teachers are knowledgeable, the staff and volunteers are professional, and the classes are fun!

I've been to quite a few studios where classes start late and the teachers seem unapproachable, so I've really appreciated VMAC's proactive communication and organization.

I also met my partner here, and although matchmaking isn't a service they offer explicitly, it does make the studio especially near and dear to my heart. The community is great.

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent venue for dance instruction. I'm visiting from out of state on an extended work assignment and the Salsa classes are full of energy and the instructors are a lot of fun! From beginner to expert, highly recommended.

Source: Google

★ 5

VMAC has been a tremendously amazing dance studio! My experiences with the salsa classes, workshops, and socials has been beyond compare. I could not recommend VMAC enough for learning dance and growing in the dance community.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started taking salsa lessons at VMAC and I was nervous and had 2 left feet. Dance lessons was also way out of my box. Everyone at VMAC was fantastic. They made me feel welcome, they were extremely supportive and some of the best people you could meet. The community feel is positive and supportive and I would strongly recommend VMAC for anyone wanting to learn all the different dance styles they offer.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Lots of dance classes with very passionate and detailed instructors.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've taken Zouk, Salsa, and Bachata classes here, and it's a wonderful community. Classes are very well-organized, and the instructors are enthusiastic and knowledgable. I've been to quite a few dance schools/studios in different cities, and this is one of the best I've seen.

ALSO, the first question I always hear from friends is, "Do I need to bring a partner?" You do NOT need to have a partner to sign up for a dance class! You'll rotate throughout the class and make a bunch of new friends on day one. It's really not intimidating, so if you're on the fence, just sign up. : )

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

If you like to dance you want to check this place out!
I've been taking Brazilian Zouk classes at VMAC for the last 3 years, and even though things had to slow down during COVID the studio found safe ways to keep the community alive and now it's coming back stronger than ever. I truly cannot express what VMAC has meant to me, having a community and a physical activity and an outlet for creative expression has probably saved my sanity more than once in the last few years!
The instructors and staff are passionate and motivating and go above and beyond to create the best experiences for students. They've got regular monthly classes, practicas, open level classes, socials, and workshops where they often bring in traveling instructors. There's a few performance teams too! Or you can rent the space and host your own practice/class/performance/party. It really feels like no matter how casual or serious you want to be about dance, VMAC will probably have an option for you, and I couldn't recommend them enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

While visiting Portland, I did two months of classes, as well as a weekend intensive, and a number of drop-in open level classes (and socials!!). The teachers have an infectious enthusiasm, the community is welcoming - and the free practica after classes makes it so much easier to build muscle memory and remember what was taught in the lessons.

Source: Google

★ 5

AMAZING community, beautiful people, excellent dance instructors. So grateful for this place.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been taking classes at VMAC for almost 3 yrs now. It's a wonderful dance community with lots of fabulous classes!

Source: Google

★ 5

Simply the best

Source: Google

★ 1

Source: Google

★ 1

Extremely unfriendly. I arrived for a meetup group wirh confirmation email and was send away because they were "sold out"
No attempt to even help.
Worst experience ever in a Portland venue.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Went for an anniversary party and the crowd was welcoming and there to dance. Inspired me to want to learn more.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this place. One of the best options for most Latin style dancing. I've taken/am taking salsa and bachata classes here (Oh and casino salsa as well). They have great workshops and I always leave learning something new.
The staff is icing on the cake. Everyone one of them are super encouraging and they make you feel comfortable.

Source: Google

★ 5

Organized, good quality of teachers, and they have regular dance events. I've been going here for classes for over a year. I really enjoy the classes -- the instructors have us rotate partners, high five each other, and there's always a fun atmosphere. I look forward to my classes. I also took a bunch of private lessons with Deblin to help me get over the beginner's hell of leading in dance, and it was a great investment, as I was finally able to freestyle dance with a random person for 3+ minutes afterwards. Aside from classes, there's 1-off workshops and they throw social dance events. Their classes and payments are all easily managed by MindBody software via their website and there is a swift check-in at the front.

Source: Google

★ 5

Cool venue with dope shows & events

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Perfect

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Such a wonderful dance studio! Great teachers and community!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Friendly staff and fun assortment of classes.

Source: Google

★ 5

I really enjoyed taking bachata & zouk classes with Deblin, Iñaki, and Joey. They went above and beyond in ensuring that classes were accessible for me. They were very patient, and each brought an enthusiastic and friendly vibe to each of the classes. Going to classes/socials at VMAC will be one of the things I miss most about living in Portland.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Vitalidad is a beautiful venue to host your wedding! Deblin was very helpful from start to finish. All communication was prompt. When we booked, tables and chairs were included in the overall price. Since it's a dance studio, the dance floor was great! The best in Portland. If you have a large guest list (we had 168 guests with 20 tables), you'll have to move tables and chairs to create the dance floor. Train tracks are right next to the venue so keep that in mind as it may interrupt your ceremony (it did for our's but our officiant was a pro and handled it well). You can use outside vendors and there's no noise ordinance so we had music going past 11 pm.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been a regular VMAC student for almost a year and a half now and I started at the very first Beginner Salsa class they offered. I have grown tremendously as a dancer in this time thanks to the dedication and careful attention of Carolina and Jamal. If we students are doing something wrong, they BOTH give us the helpful feedback to correct our mistakes in a sensitive, compassionate way. It’s never easy for our sensitive human egos to be told we are doing something wrong, but that’s the nature of learning. The fact that they are willing to break down every micro detail of how to do a dance move (both the right AND the wrong way) demonstrates to me their level of dedication; it is second to none. I’ve taken workshop classes with world champion dancers and Carolina and Jamal at Vitalidad Movement Arts Center (VMAC) are the best there is. I feel lucky to have discovered VMAC.

Source: Google

★ 5

VMAC is a loving, accepting space for all that come through the door. The instructors are incredibly welcoming, very patient with all, and take the time to break the movements down. I walked in through the door over three years ago and have not left the place since. It's my second home.

Source: Google

★ 5

Vitalidad is a beautiful Venue in the heart of Portland. The Venue offers tons of space for weddings and any type of event. We love being able to cater at this space. Deblin is amazing to work with and always very helpful!!!

-Evelyn X Catering Operations Manager at As Good As It Gets Catering by Cheryls on 12th.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great teachers, great vibes!

Source: Google

★ 5

Super knowledgeable, patient, and friendly instructors. Every class is a good time and insightful. Thanks for existing Vitalidad!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I am 30 years old and grew up dancing, but it's been a long while since I've taken a class. Dancing has always been on my mind, and through a mutual friend I ended up in a class taught by Diana Esquerra, and now I'm hooked. She is AMAZING! I've consistently taken two types of dance classes with Diana - a dance fitness class and my FAVORITE, a sensual movement class.

Diana is a fun and encouraging teacher who lets her students embrace the dance moves in their own unique way. There is no pressure for perfection in her classes...she's all about her students giving it their all and finding their own power and beauty through dance - however that may look!

I followed Diana over to the VMAC's new facilities and am impressed so far. The price of $10 for a drop-in seems very reasonable with packaged deals available. The staff at the front desk are very friendly and welcoming. And the space seems to be newly renovated.

The Dance Fitness class (currently every Thursday at 5:30pm) is the most fun I've had while working out. You'll FEEL THE BURN but also have the biggest smile on your face the whole time. Fun music and fun moves.

I am hoping that Diana will be able to offer her Sensual Movement dance class at this space ASAP. It's seriously the best class EVER. We learn a choreographed dance across the span of 2-3 classes and while my body doesn't quote move like an MTV music video big-booty queen, I FEEL LIKE ONE! So much fun getting your 'sexy' on with women who are there only to support one another. VMAC - please hook it up with this class!

Source: Google

★ 5

A warm welcoming community and great instructors

Source: Google

★ 5

My first Zouk lesson was here! And it was the birthplace of my love for the dance. Huge thanks to Nathalia for bringing Zouk to Portland and Carolina and Jamal for maintaining such a welcoming family environment for all of us! Top notch instruction here!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

A fun studio full beautiful people sharing their passion. Definitely worth going to.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This place has a magic that is hard to describe, but you cannot help but feel it. From the front desk staff that welcome you with care, to instructors that are phenomenal in their style, this place is an oasis in the busy race of everyday life. I cannot wait to come and see my friends and grow as a dancer each time I come to class. I feel comfortable trying new styles and asking questions; so so important! The owners are concerned with making it a space that everyone who enters feels comfortable, I love their emphasis on creating a safe space for all. So much VMAC love �

Source: Google

★ 5

Vitalidad is a wonderful dance studio. I am a Brazilian Zouk dance instructor originally from Los Angeles, and can recognize a good social dance studio when I see and experience one. Upon substituting for some Zouk classes, providing workshops, and participating in social dance nights, I can see that Vitalidad welcomes all who is looking to have fun with all forms of social dance styles. They have talented yet humble dance instructors, focused students who enthusiastically learn, and everyone respects each other on and off the dance floor. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this wonderful studio!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great community of positive instructors. They offer a variety of dance styles, and even yoga and fitness classes!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I wanted to learn how to dance, but I had no idea how. I was about as stiff as your average gringo (no offense out there) and too clumsy to move in a way that could be considered "dancing". Well, with a quick google search Vitalidad was the first option to come up and I thought, why not? I attended a bachata class thinking it was some kind of mexican dish, oblivious to the fact that it was one of the most sesnual and romantic dances out there. My first day of class I was awed by the kindness and patience that Carolina and Jamal demonstrated and the fun that they had in class. It was a comfortable environment where I could learn how to express myself as the intimidation of social dancing was gradually unraveled. My very first day I had already learned the basic step and a fun routine that I could practice. I have been here ever since and am now comfortable on the dance floor and realizing my dream of being able to dance. I have also since learned that Bachata is not a mexican dish.
Carolina and Jamal seemingly take everyone under their wing and teach them not only how to dance, but to feel and be a part of the music. If you want to feel like part of a family and learn how to dance, or get fit with the variety of yoga and fitness classes, this is the place for you. Thank you, Carolina and Jamal.

Source: Google

★ 5

Vitalidad Movement Arts Center is an amazing dance studio and community space. Carolina and Jamal bring so much passion to their teaching - their love of movement in infectious. This is the only studio in Portland where you can find authentic salsa and bachata, tango, Brazilian zouk and kizomba (both new to Portland) as well as club styles like vogue and waacking. VMAC is a supportive, safe space to learn and express yourself - I'm so thankful to Carolina and Jamal for making it happen. I (re)discovered my love of dance at VMAC, and you will too.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great variety of classes with awesome instructors. The location is easy to find and straight across the Hawthorne bridge so it's easy to get to.

Source: Google