Harmonic Movement
All Levels
Adult Contemporary Dance
Harmonic Movement Contemporary Dance is a practice that invites each dancer to discover and infuse their own movement story and embodied voice into every movement and phrase. Drawing on the vocabularies of ballet, jazz, and modern dance, each class offers dancers of any age or experience level a way in that fits their own body, movement history, and expressive tendencies. A thorough warm-up helps dancers access their optimal strength and mobility, building both freedom and control before moving into playful and creative technique-building exercises and center choreography. At its heart, Harmonic Movement Contemporary Dance is about joy: the joy of movement, of dancing together, and discovering the ways creative expression can be genuinely healing.
Join a Class!
Classes start November 7th, 2026
Saturdays 4:00 - 5:30 PM
Shabu Studios
6055 NE Glisan St., Portland, OR 97213
Drop In
No registration required
Sliding Scale Pricing
(self-select, pay what you can)
$12 / $18 / $25 per class
Teens and adults ages 15+
"Dandelion"
2024
Choreography by: Lauren Coons
Music: Barbatuques, "Do Mangue a Manga"
Performed by Harmonic Movement Contemporary Fusion Dance community dancers
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
Dancing with Lauren has been incredibly meaningful and given me a renewed sense of embodiment. Her classes allow for dancers and dance enthusiasts of all levels to feel safe, challenged, supported, and free to express themselves honestly and uniquely. I initially took Lauren’s classes to show myself that I didn’t need to be perfect at a hobby I was interested in, but over time, I showed up to class because dancing in such a welcoming space brought me so much joy and allowed me to inhabit my body and be vulnerable in a way I hadn’t been able to in years. Lauren is a gentle, compassionate teacher who constantly encourages students; she takes time to break down choreography, answer questions and offer alternatives for differing levels, as well as provide opportunities for additional growth, such as with community dance performances.
- Michelle
I have no prior dance experience so was a bit hesitant to try Lauren’s contemporary dance class. When I stepped into the studio she was warm and welcoming, along with the other dancers, who ranged from 20’s to 50’s and beyond. She teaches her extraordinary choreography in bits and pieces which helped me learn each step before moving on. I found it to be so much fun and I loved her musical choices as well. She also made sure we were warmed up and flexible first before dancing. I was extremely lucky to have danced in three performances she choreographed. Lauren is very sweet and talented and I highly recommend anyone at any level try her classes!
- Elizabeth
Lauren’s contemporary dance class has been an absolutely wonderful outlet for fun, friendship, creativity, learning, growing, and most of all, joy through movement. Her class format includes an effective and enjoyable warmup and conditioning, followed by across-the-floor moves and grooves, then learning and practicing a short choreography. Lauren’s teaching comes from the heart – she is warm, relaxed and clear. and she is open and accommodating to all of our varying abilities and limitations. I have especially appreciated the opportunity to continue attending class as I have worked through a challenging health issue that affected my balance and stamina, and to do as much or as little as I could on any given day. Lauren has that rare combination of expansive creative talent and an extraordinary ability to teach in a fun and welcoming way. Every class has left me buzzing with the joy of dance! Thank you, Lauren, for the gift of your heart and soul, and for facilitating the sharing of all of our hearts and souls in a safe and welcoming space.
- Laura
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear, and what do I need to bring?
Wear clothes that are comfortable to move in and allow for ease and range of motion. Attire that feels expressive and fun to dance in is what we're all about. Warm-up includes floor stretches and across-the-floor work, and the choreography invites kicks (as high as you want 'em!). Most dancers choose to dance barefoot, though socks or clean-soled shoes are welcome if you prefer them. The floor at Shabu Studios is natural wood and can be slippery, so keep that in mind when choosing footwear. Reach out anytime with questions, concerns, or for a personalized recommendation.
How do I decide what sliding scale price to pay?
This sliding scale pricing guide walks through the three tiers and how to choose the one that fits your circumstances right now. There's no form to fill out and no proof needed, and you're always welcome to pay an amount in between tiers.
Do I need previous dance experience?
No. Class draws on the vocabularies of ballet, jazz, modern, and contemporary dance, but every combination is taught with room to find your own way in, one that fits your body, movement history, and expressive tendencies. Dancers who are brand new to movement and dancers with years of training are equally welcome in the same room.
Do I need to commit to coming every week?
No. This is a drop-in class, so come to the sessions that fit your schedule. There's no ongoing commitment required to join in. Combinations and choreography will be repeated for a few successive weeks, but taught from the beginning every time. If you come multiple weeks in a row, you'll have a chance to "sink into" the choreography, but if you drop in every so often, you won't be left behind.
Can this class accommodate my body, injury, or mobility needs?
Harmonic Movement Contemporary Dance is built to offer multiple ways into each phrase and combination, so dancers of different experience levels and movement styles can each find their own entry point. If you have a specific injury, mobility consideration, or other need, reach out before class so we can talk through what might work well for you. Dancers are welcome to modify movement or take breaks anytime during class, no questions asked. Asking for modifications is welcomed and encouraged.
What does a typical class look like?
Class opens with a thorough warm-up to help you access your own strength and mobility, moves into playful and creative technique-building exercises, and closes with center choreography. Throughout, the focus stays on joy: the joy of moving, dancing together, and discovering how creative expression can be genuinely healing.
How do I register and pay?
No registration required, just show up. You're welcome to email in advance if you have questions or would like to share any info with me ahead of time (injuries, accommodations, etc.). Payment is accepted via cash, check, Venmo, or PayPal.
Is there parking?
Yes, parking is available on Glisan and surrounding side streets. Please do not park in the lot to the side of/behind Shabu Studios.