The Jefferson Dancers Launch Their 2026 Spring Concert Series—celebrating Their Landmark 50th Season—with Opening Night On Thursday, April 16 (Photo) - 04/13/26
WHAT: The Jefferson Dancers launch their 2026 Spring Concert Series—celebrating their landmark 50th season—with opening night on Thursday, April 16 at the Newmark Theatre.
A free student matinee follows on Friday, April 17, welcoming nearly 900 Portland Public Schools students. This longstanding tradition prioritizes Jefferson High School feeder schools, Title I schools, and schools with dance programs—offering many students a rare opportunity to experience live, professional-caliber dance.
This anniversary season is especially meaningful, with every performance featuring choreography and performances by Jefferson Dancers alumni—underscoring the program’s enduring legacy across five decades.
The concert series features nine new works, many choreographed by alumni. Audiences will experience a dynamic range of styles—from classical ballet to contemporary and high-energy hip-hop—reflecting 50 years of artistic excellence.
Friday evening’s performance will include four special alumni interludes, bringing dancers from the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and 2010+ eras back to the stage in a powerful celebration of the program’s history.
Also featured are two student works recently selected for the Outstanding Student Choreography Showcase at the National High School Dance Festival:
Through by Piper Bott
Semi-conscious by Harlow
WHEN & WHERE:
Public Performances:
Thursday, April 16 at 7:30 P.M. (Opening Night)
Friday, April 17 at 7:30 P.M. (Featuring Alumni Interludes)
Saturday, April 18 at 2:00 P.M. & 7:30 P.M.
Student Matinee:
Friday, April 17 at 11:00 A.M.
VENUE:
Portland’5 Newmark Theatre
1111 SW Broadway, Portland, OR
VISUALS & COVERAGE OPPORTUNITIES:
- Nearly 900 students attending a live performance
- Alumni dancers from multiple decades returning to the stage
- Dynamic choreography by alumni and student artists
- Interviews with Artistic Director Steve Gonzales, dancers, and choreographers
- Behind-the-scenes access to one of Portland’s longest-running youth arts programs, now in its 50th season
GET TICKETS TO PUBLIC PERFORMANCES:
$27 adults / $12 students & seniors
https://www.portland5.com/newmark-theatre/events/jefferson-dancer
ABOUT THE JEFFERSON DANCERS:
The Jefferson Dancers are the elite performance company of Jefferson High School’s nationally recognized dance program. Now in its 50th season, the company has trained generations of Portland’s most advanced young dancers, ages 14–18, across multiple dance disciplines. This milestone year highlights the program’s deep alumni network, with choreography and performances that celebrate its lasting impact. The Spring Concert remains a signature event showcasing the passion, artistry, and exceptional talent of Portland’s next generation of performers.
