Oregon Ballet Theatre

A year ago, I’d give this place a 4+ rating; today we just had a really disappointing experience there for the Nutcracker. Did you know after paying $60+ a ticket seeing a ballet performance in a reputable theater, some shows are NOT done by live orchestra, rather it’s a recording?? I always purchase tickets directly from the Oregon Ballet and with their “generous” 40% off, I paid four tickets of $45 each for good seats. Later just by chance, I learned of all places at Groupon that some performances are not with live music which was not indicated on OBT site. I don’t think we will return next year.

We really enjoy being part of the OBT community. They strive to meet highest standard. We also are enjoying the new Children's director who is quite friendly and warm not to mention helpful.

Our daughter advanced level, on point, in the career track an another company has experienced a summer intensive that was anything but. We had heard rumors that the obt summer program tended to place dancers below their ability level and should have done more research. In the first day the instructor didn't even show up, that should have been warning enough. After three days of overly rudimentary instruction that left her wondering if some kind of joke was being played, she finally heard good news - dancers would be moved to more appropriate levels shortly. Days later and no dancers were moved. Zero. All the students feel unchallenged at all levels but aren't speaking up - probably not wanting to upset their teachers and/or parents. So after class after class of being bored and frustrated by teachers clearly phoning it in, she spoke to us and now is not back to classes at her regular school. I doubt they've even noticed her absence. It's the last day and other parents still there confirm that no dancers were moved to appropriate levels and disappointment is high. They got what they wanted, our money, but we'd never recommend them or, now, even attend an obt performance. Lesson learned.

Last year I read an article in the Oregonian comparing the Portland and Seattle Nutcracker performances. While it said the Portland company was more experienced technically, the Seattle company had an exhilarating new set design. I contacted my Seattle cousins and said let's make plans to go. I was so disappointed in the abilities of the Seattle company, it left me empty and a little embarrassed to have built up my cousins expectations. For me the fanciful set design was flat and it detracted from the beautiful history of the ballet. The dancing was tired and uninspiring. I needed to erase that memory, so I invited a neighbor, who had never seen a ballet, to come see your Nutcracker performance. We were mesmerized. Over whelmed with the beauty and joy of it all. I cannot thank you enough for your efforts to make this Sunday evening performance such a joy for us in the audience. Everyone on stage wanted to be there, wanted to do their best, wanted to share their joy of dance. You are incredible! Your love of dance filled the auditorium. I am happy because your performance filled me up with joy. This is true art. Please thank all those involved from top to bottom for such a wonderful experience. You lightened my spirit. Thank you, Merry Christmas and the best in the New Year to all of you. Lynnda Steenslid

Wonderful teaching and great atmosphere. They are moving across the river soon which is a bummer because their space is also great.

I've seen dozens of shows, and the OBT never fails to impress.

Saw The Americans tonight. Superb. Portland has something special happening here.

Been a season ticket holder for years, it's always beautiful and amazing.

Good shows, enjoyed it very much