Opus Performing Arts - Dance studio in Bellingham, Washington
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Opus Performing Arts

Verified
Address

207 Prospect Street

Bellingham, Washington 98225

Opening Hours
  • Monday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
48 programs

About Opus Performing Arts

Opus Performing Arts, located in Bellingham, Washington, is dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of dance and a passion for performing arts in students of all ages and experience levels. The studio offers a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing safe instruction, proper foundations, and the artistic process. Students benefit from the guidance of a distinguished faculty, including Amalie Barton, Damian Cade, Rachel Coats, Brooke Evans, Elizabeth Graham, Celeste Hartsook, Bailey McCully, Kaitlin Nelson, Natalie "Tilie" O'Neil, Laura Smith, and Diane Williams, who provide hands-on feedback and encouragement. Opus Performing Arts' diverse class schedule for the 2025-2026 season and summer programs features a wide array of dance styles such as Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Musical Theater, Ballroom, and Barre. Instruction focuses on proper body mechanics, alignment, and artistic expression, with Ballet serving as a strong foundation for many disciplines. The studio caters to younger dancers with specific programs and offers adult drop-in classes for continuous engagement. Opus prioritizes introspection, interactive learning, and thoughtfully planned classes with intentional goals. Prospective students can register online or download a hardcopy of the schedule, with practical matters like tuition, dress codes, and policies addressed to ensure a well-rounded dance education. Opus Performing Arts operates from its studios at 207 Prospect Street, above the Bellingham Cider Company, cultivating an environment of kindness, respect, and professionalism.

Programs from Opus Performing Arts

48 programs available

Classes

Adult Drop In Dance Classes

7 and Under

Drop-In Beginner and Intermediate Ballet
$15.00

All adult drop-in classes are at our 207 Prospect Street location. There is no need to pre-register for adult classes; cost is $15/class. We also sell punch-cards for adult classes: 5 classes for $70. You can buy a punch card at the front desk or use our online store (if you buy online you can pick up the actual punch card when you come in for class).

classes are on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday evenings at 6:00pm.
Adult Ballet

Got a passion for ballet? It’s never too late to learn! Whether you’re returning to ballet, in search of more practice time and expert instruction or just starting off, OPUS offers a variety of adult classes to lead you through barre practice and center work focusing on proper form as you gradually build on your technique.

Tap I – Beginner

Students are introduced to basic movement vocabulary and tap terminology. The class will focus on solid technique while learning combinations and participating in improvisation. Special emphasis is given to rhythm training, including swing and straight time. Students age 7 by December 31 of that calendar year may enroll directly into Tap I class. Students are also encouraged to consider tap dance like any instrument, where progress is achieved through dedicated practice at home. Basic Vocabulary: Toe, heel, dig, spank, scuff, hop, shuffle, flap, paddle and roll, cramp roll, clap

Primary Ballet

This 45 minute class is a prelude to formal ballet instruction and prepares the student for entering into Ballet I-A. Primary Ballet introduces children to music and movement through a structured progression that emphasizes creativity and group interaction. Students are introduced to the basic shapes, positions, postures and traditions of classical ballet at a time when their fine and gross motor skills are becoming more refined. Fundamental concepts of body, action, space, time and effort are explored with weekly themes such as energy, rhythm/beat, relationships, self-space/general-space, balance and shapes, level exploration and more!

Pre-Ballet

This 45 minute class introduces children to music and movement through a structured progression that emphasizes creativity and group interaction. Basic fundamentals of dance are introduced through creative movement, music and fun that develops self-expression and confidence. Students are introduced to ballet concepts, musicality, coordination, spatial awareness and class etiquette. Fundamental concepts of body, action, space, time and effort are explored with weekly themes such as smooth energy vs. sharp energy, flow, pathways, speed, size and more!

Ballet Tap Combo

These 45 minute classes are for our youngest dancers. Fundamentals of dance are introduced through creative movement, music and fun that develops self-expression and confidence. Fundamental concepts of body, action, space, time and effort are explored with weekly themes such as slow/medium/fast, smooth energy vs. sharp energy, direction, straight/curved/zig-zag pathways, big/medium/small and more! Class times are divided between ballet and tap to give students a chance to develop their movement base and rhythm.

Semi-private lessons
$40.00

Semi-privates lessons of two students are offered at $40/hour per student.

Private Lessons
$60.00

Private Lessons give students the opportunity to work one-on-one with a professional instructor in an individual class carefully tailored to the needs of the student. Private lessons are available on an arranged basis. You may schedule privates for one session or for the entire year depending upon the objective.

Hip Hop (Teeny 5-7, Children’s 8-10, Youth 10-13)

Hip Hop is a high energy dance class based on street dancing that uses popular hip hop and pop music. Learn intricate movements, dynamics and body isolations with the latest hip-hop moves. Prepare to sweat and have fun! Dress comfortably in non-restrictive clothing and clean sneakers.

Tap III – Advanced

Building on Tap II technique, attention is given to dynamics, musicality, and personal style. Emphasis is given to learning the tools to support learning and growth beyond the studio environment. Video journaling is introduced as a tool to track progress and goals. As always, students are encouraged to consider tap dance like any instrument, where progress is achieved through dedicated practice at home. Advanced Vocabulary: triple shuffle, wings, other vocabulary as needed to perform advanced choreography

Tap II – Intermediate

Building on Tap I fundamentals, attention is given to relaxed and precise use of the body, balance, and more complex steps and combinations. Emphasis is given to developing the practice habits necessary to perform steps at increasing tempos. Journaling is introduced as a tool to track goals. Students are encouraged to consider tap dance like any instrument, where progress is achieved through dedicated practice at home. Intermediate Vocabulary: riff, time step, cincinnati, pickup, drag, open third, closed third, clap

Jazz III/Lyrical

Students will continue to build their vocabulary of turns and leaps while building their technique and athleticism. Students are guided to step beyond comfort zones and move with ever increasing levels of attack, confidence and artistry. Due to the athletic nature and technical demands of this class a minimum enrollment of two ballet classes per week is required, though three classes per week is very strongly recommended.

Jazz II/Lyrical

More challenging jazz vocabulary is introduced and combined into combinations that are dynamic, varied and fun. Students will hone basic turns, kicks, traveling steps, jumps and leaps. Rhythm, correct technique, clarity and strength are emphasized. Students will also be introduced to the flowing, expressive style of Lyrical. Due to the athletic nature and technical demands of this class, concurrent enrollment in a ballet class is highly recommended.

Jazz I

Students focus on fundamentals of rhythm, coordination, mobility and having fun! Students learn to move big, with energy, style and expression while learning about correct alignment and beginning jazz vocabulary. Concurrent enrollment in a ballet class is recommended. To advance into Jazz II, students are expected to take a minimum of one ballet technique class per week, with two classes recommended.

Jazz Levels I-III

These classes focus on traditional jazz vocabulary and various styles of jazz including broadway, commercial and jazz funk. Classes focus on developing strength, power, correct alignment, coordination, style and confidence. Students will gain a sense of individuality and originality and will develop the ability to move quickly and think fast. Jazz training helps develop dancers who are expressive, dynamic, musical and passionate. Jazz II and III classes include an optional, additional 30 minutes of Lyrical. Because jazz draws heavily from ballet technique and alignment, concurrent enrollment in a ballet class is recommended. Ballet is the foundation of our Contemporary and Jazz programs, and students who train regularly in ballet progress most safely and successfully. To move into Contemporary and Jazz levels II and above, students are expected to take a minimum of one ballet technique class per week, with two classes recommended. For Contemporary and Jazz levels III and higher, two ballet technique classes per week are required and three are very strongly recommended. While we understand that every dancer’s journey is different, substituting private lessons or a limited ballet schedule generally doesn't provide the same foundation or progression as consistent group training. In rare cases, students with a substantial ballet background may be considered for these more advanced placements with fewer classes, but our goal is for all dancers to stay engaged with ballet throughout their training.

Contemporary III

Further refinement and specificity of technique is explored for dancers who show maturity and a thirst for challenge. Concepts of weight, resistance, release, suspension and momentum are explored, often using the floor, to expand the dancer’s toolbox and aid students in taking on more advanced phrases of choreography. Students are guided to become strong, aware and present dancers with clear body awareness, the courage to make artistic choices and improvisational confidence. Due to the athletic and technical demands of this level, concurrent enrollment in a ballet class is required. Due to the athletic and technical demands of this level, a minimum enrollment of two ballet classes per week is required, though three classes per week is very strongly recommended.

Contemporary II

More varied and challenging exercises are explored as students are guided to further understanding of anatomy and alignment. We explore moving bigger, with more clarity and more rhythmic accuracy. Students progress to longer and more technical phrases of movement, explore a wide range of movement qualities and are encouraged to make artistic choices in their dancing. Concurrent enrollment in a ballet class is strongly recommended. A minimum of one ballet class per week is required for all Contemporary II students. To advance into Contemporary III, students are expected to take a minimum of two ballet technique classes per week, with three classes recommended.

Contemporary I

Alignment, strength building and body awareness are emphasized in a fun, interactive and exploratory environment. Students will focus on building foundations of rhythm, coordination, whole body engagement, introductory floorwork and creative expression. Concurrent enrollment in a ballet class is recommended. To advance into Contemporary II, students are expected to take a minimum of one ballet technique class per week, with two classes recommended.

Contemporary Levels I-IV

Contemporary class will work your brain, body, and artistic spirit. OPUS’ contemporary curriculum is based on fundamentals of modern dance and ballet technique, integrating strength-building, healthy alignment, and varied dance concepts to help students move with freedom, presence and confidence. Concepts of weight, energy, rhythm, and momentum are explored at the barre, on the floor, in improvisation and in choreographic phrases. Students are given imagery and tools for learning phrase work and inviting artistic expression. Ballet is the foundation of our Contemporary and Jazz programs, and students who train regularly in ballet progress most safely and successfully. To move into Contemporary and Jazz levels II and above, students are expected to take a minimum of one ballet technique class per week, with two classes recommended. For Contemporary and Jazz levels III and higher, two ballet technique classes per week are required and three are very strongly recommended. While we understand that every dancer’s journey is different, substituting private lessons or a limited ballet schedule generally doesn't provide the same foundation or progression as consistent group training. In rare cases, students with a substantial ballet background may be considered for these more advanced placements with fewer classes, but our goal is for all dancers to stay engaged with ballet throughout their training.

Intermediate/Open Ballet

welcomes student’s teen/adult with at least 2 years of committed ballet training. Students attending this class are expected to know basic barre and center vocabulary as well as simple petite allegro, pirouettes, combinations from the corner and grand allegro. Like all of our open classes, this class is subject to the needs of the overall attendees of each class.

Beginner Ballet

is suitable for the beginner teen/adult as well as students who would like to work in a slower paced environment. Attention is paid to proper body alignment, use of the legs and feet, and developing movement sequences through coordination of the arms and head. Students are encouraged to follow more experienced students as well as ask questions when needed.

Foundational Ballet

is suitable for students with zero to little ballet training or for more experienced students looking to refine their technique. Students are introduced to basic movement vocabulary and French terminology. The class will learn basic positions of the feet and arms through fundamental barre and center work. Attention is paid to proper body alignment, use of the legs and feet, balance, and whole body coordination.

Adult Drop-in Ballet

Got a passion for ballet? It’s never too late to learn! Whether you’re returning to ballet, in search of more practice time and expert instruction or just starting off, OPUS offers a variety of adult classes to lead you through barre practice and center work focusing on proper form as you gradually build on your technique. As every dancer would agree, ballet takes repetition and practice. A challenge for the mind as well as body, ballet strengthens and tones while promoting good posture and cardiovascular health. OPUS offers foundational ballet, beginner, intermediate and open level ballet classes on a drop-in basis.

Pointe

Pointe work requires continuous and conscientious study to develop the correct musculature and strength. Because pointe work is the cumulative result of gradual training of the whole body, readiness for pointe work is contingent upon many factors. Factors that determine pointe readiness include age, physical development, anatomical facility, strength of technique, length and frequency of study, attendance habits and maturity. A pointe readiness evaluation is mandatory for students hoping to transition to pointe work and for students new to OPUS wanting to continue their pointe training. Core strength, range of motion, alignment, balance and foot strength are all included in our exam for being en pointe. Each student is assessed independently by the Artistic Director. Students must take a technique class prior to taking Pointe, so the muscles are warmed up and prepared for the intense work of these classes. For more information, please see OPUS’ Pointe Policy.

Pre-Pointe

Students begin preparing the legs and feet for pointe work through a combination of Pre-Pointe appropriate exercises and ballet technique. Because pointe work is the cumulative result of gradual training of the whole body, readiness for pointe work is contingent upon many factors. Factors that determine pointe readiness include age, physical development, anatomical facility, strength of technique, length and frequency of study, attendance habits and maturity. Pre-Pointe will have an emphasis on articulation and strength of the legs and feet, students will work with therabands and other props to strengthen the appropriate muscles in the legs, feet, back, and abdominals to prepare students anatomically for the arduous work on pointe. Students must take a technique class prior to taking Pre-Pointe, so the muscles are warmed up and prepared for the intense work of these classes. Students, typically ages 11-13. To qualify, they must demonstrate solid technique and attend ballet at least three days a week. For more information, please see OPUS’ Pointe Policy.

Ballet V/VI

Expanded ballet vocabulary with an emphasis on advanced petite allegro and grand allegro skills. Ballet V/VI builds upon foundational skill with advanced variations of pirouettes, batterie, adagio and pas de valse. Working on the complexities of adding artistry with head and upper body movement, fluidity of port de bras and coordination of arms and legs with petite and grande allegro skills. Contemporary Ballet is explored to add new levels of versatility to classical ballet technique. Pointe students attend class en pointe to offer progress to their pointework. Journaling finishes every class to track our goals and progress. Students meet 4 times per week for ballet training. Ballet V+ are strongly encouraged to take elective classes like contemporary, jazz, Master Classes from guest teachers and workshops when they are offered. At the teacher’s discretion, students may take optional additional classes en pointe.

Ballet IV

Increased focus on cross-training and strengthening the core of the body is taught so that students maintain healthy physical progression through the levels balanced muscles and the importance of self-care. Expanded ballet vocabulary and added emphasis on artistry create a rigorous environment for students. More complex enchaînements, building foundations for multiple pirouettes, more complex coordination of the head and upper body, fluidity of port de bras and building on petite and grande allegro skills. Journaling finishes every class to track our goals and progress. Students meet 4 times per week for ballet training. Ballet IV+ are strongly encouraged to take elective classes like contemporary, jazz, Master Classes from guest teachers and workshops when they are offered. At the teacher’s discretion, students may take optional additional classes en pointe.

Ballet III

Increased focus on cross-training and strengthening the core of the body is taught so that students maintain healthy physical progression through the levels, balanced muscles and the importance of self-care. More challenging ballet vocabulary is introduced as students develop coordination of arms and legs. Articulation and strength of the legs and feet with more advanced barre and center work. Petite allegro vocabulary is expanded with a greater emphasis on proper placement for jumps and landings as well as fundamentals for pirouettes. Journaling finishes every class to track our goals and progress. Students meet 3 times per week for ballet training and are strongly encouraged to take elective classes like contemporary, jazz, Master Classes from guest teachers and workshops when they are offered. At the teacher’s discretion, students may begin Pre-Pointe training.

Ballet II

Building on Ballet I fundamentals, attention is paid to proper body alignment, use of the legs and feet, balance, more complex barre and center work with whole body coordination. Journaling is introduced as a tool to track goals. Ballet II students are required to attend ballet classes 2 times per week. Students are also encouraged to take contemporary, jazz and/or hip hop dance classes to explore different dance styles.

Ballet I

Students are introduced to basic movement vocabulary and French terminology. The class will learn basic positions of the feet and arms through fundamental barre and center work. Students age 8 by December 31 of that calendar year may enroll directly into a once a week Ballet I-A class; Ballet I-B students are required to attend ballet classes 2 times per week. Students are also encouraged to take contemporary, jazz and/or hip hop dance classes to explore different dance styles.

Tap I

Teeny Hip Hop

Primary Ballet

Pre-Ballet

Ballet/Tap Combo

Combo and Pre-Ballet
registration fees and first month tuition are due at time of registration and are non-refundable

Classes for ages under 7 year old. Registration fees and first month tuition are due at time of registration and are non-refundable for under 7 year old classes.

Adult Drop In Dance Classes
For adult drop in pricing - please see details here.

Adult Drop In Dance Classes for the 2025-2026 school year. Please see details here for pricing information.

Combo
registration fees and first month tuition are due at time of registration and are non-refundable for under 7 year old classes

Adult Drop In Dance Classes

Click here for more information about adult drop-in classes.

Adult Intermediate Tap

Mondays 6:00pm
Adult Open Tap

Adult Open Tap Mondays 6:00pm

Mondays 6:00pm
Adult Beginning Ballet

Adult Beginning Ballet Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30pm run continuously throughout the summer (drop-in).

Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:30pm
Adult Open Ballet

Amy Guerra will hold her adult open ballet classes throughout the year at the regular time - 10:00am on Sunday mornings.

Sunday 10:00am
Amy's Sunday morning classes

Amy's Sunday morning 10:00am classes run continuously throughout the summer (drop-in).

Sunday 10:00am
Adult Beginning/Open Tap

Wednesdays 6:45pm

Courses

Progressing Fundamentals of Ballet
$110.00

This eight week, workshop style class will delve deep into the foundations of ballet: proper alignment, placement and pathways, terminology, coordination, and more! This is the perfect class for beg/int adult dancers who wish to deepen their understanding of ballet. This class requires pre-registration and commitment to all 8 sessions.

Fridays 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I contact Opus Performing Arts?

Call Opus Performing Arts at (360) 734-5300 or visit https://www.opusbellingham.com/.

What is Opus Performing Arts's phone number?

You can phone Opus Performing Arts at (360) 734-5300.

What days is Opus Performing Arts open?

Opus Performing Arts is open on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday.

How much do classes cost at Opus Performing Arts?

Classes at Opus Performing Arts range from $15 to $110.

Does Opus Performing Arts have evening hours?

Yes, Opus Performing Arts offers evening hours. Monday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.