(These questions apply to our flamenco class offerings in Portland, Lake Oswego, and online)

Are you teaching in-person or online classes right now? We are currently offering both online and in person classes. You can view our class offerings here. 

Do I have to live in the Portland area to take an online class? No! We have students from all over the world in our online classes. You are welcome to join from anywhere, and if you can’t attend live due to time differences, you may take the class via the video recording. We also offer a video library with breakdowns of class material for your personal study.

May I observe an in-person class? Absolutely. Please contact us to arrange to watch a flamenco class.

What type of shoes do I wear to class? If you don't have flamenco shoes, it is best to wear a shoe with a hard sole and a bit of a heel. However, if that is not comfortable for you feel free to wear any footwear you feel comfortable in other than flip flops. If you have character shoes, you may wear those however I do not recommend purchasing character shoes if you don't already have them. (Flamenco shoes are specifically made in Spain for flamenco dance. Once you have tried class out and decide you like it I can recommend some online sites where you may purchase flamenco shoes.)

What type of clothing should I wear to class? Something comfortable that you can move easily in. Exercise or yoga pants are good and a t-shirt or tank top. Women may wear a full skirt, but it is not required. Wear whatever makes you feel good that allows you to move your arms up and around freely.

Do you have shoes I can borrow? Yes, we have traditional female-style shoes in a variety of sizes that you may borrow. (Sorry, I do not have any men’s shoes at the moment.)

Where do classes take place? We offer classes in a few locations, in Portland and Lake Oswego. Please see the individual class for location information.

How do I pre-pay for a class ? You can pre-pay by sending a check to the following address or via credit card, Zelle, or Apple Pay:

Experience Flamenco LLC | PO Box 25581 | Portland, OR 97298-0581

How do I pay for class the day of? We have a self check-in station. When you enter the studio, there is a table where you will find a sign-in book. Sign yourself in, and leave your payment in the box. (You will also find change/class cards in the box and friendly students around to offer you guidance if need be.)

How much do classes cost? Prices can be found here.

When are classes held? Check the schedule here.

What types of classes do you currently offer? We offer different flamenco dance classes and workshops for varying levels. View current offerings here.

How do I decide which level to take? Feel free to contact us if you have questions about your level. 

What is your cancellation policy? You can read about it here.

Why should I study flamenco dance? Here’s why.

What if I've never done flamenco or any type of dance? No problem at all. We have students of all levels. We will give you the tools you need to be able to do this.

What if I know nothing about flamenco at all? No problem, that's what class is for, and you'll want to sign up here to receive updates and learn more about flamenco. You can also check out the blog which is full of informational posts. 

What are your classes like? Our classes emphasize technique, improvisation, and the relationship between the cante (singing), baile (dancing), and compás (rhythm) through a positive community based learning environment. We believe that focusing on these skills and paying respect to where flamenco comes from are essential in allowing students to grow into strong flamenco dancers. We believe that learning is an interactive process that should be fun. 

Where can I learn more? See some articles about us here.

Who teaches the classes? Classes are primarily taught by me, Laura Onizuka. Julie Pacheco-Toye teaches some beginning classes as well. Learn more about us here. We also offer special workshops with guest dancers including master artists from Spain. 

Do you teach anywhere else in town? Yes, I teach residencies and workshops at elementary schools and dance schools in the metro area such as Oregon Ballet Theatre and Steps PDX.

But what if I want to take with a fantabulous dancer directly from España? You’re in the right place! We host regular workshops and master classes with professional dancers who are a part of the current flamenco scene in Spain and we organize Flamenco Tours to Spain to experience and learn about flamenco in its home. Join our list to find out about the next opportunity.

I've heard you hold flamenco retreats in the Pacific Northwest, what are those about? Yes! These retreats happen twice a year, and you can find out more about them here.

Do you have any tips for getting the most out of a class? Yes, this might help.

What if I am taking from another teacher? Wonderful! It is beneficial to expose yourself to different styles of teaching and dancing.