Welcome to the Portland Dance Archives, a home for primary resources documenting the history of the Portland dance community.
The initial interviews and performance footage featured here were collected by local dancer, filmmaker, and educator Eric Nordstrom as part of his research for his documentary film, Moving History: Portland Contemporary Dance Past and Present. The film, which explores the history of contemporary dance in Portland, includes anecdotes from dancers, choreographers, designers, and critics as well as archival performance clips and photographs.
In addition to the contributions of Eric Nordstrom, the Portland Dance Archives is also grateful for the support of Martha Ullman West, influential dance critic, who donated her papers to PSU Library Special Collections in 2012; to dancer and artist Joan Findlay; and to Judy Patton, dance artist and educator, long-time faculty member of Portland State, and an early and ongoing advocate for capturing and preserving this important history.
We invite you to explore the rich history of dance in Portland and learn more about the many artists represented.
If you are interested in contributing to this resource, please contact Special Collections at the Portland State University Library (specialcollections@pdx.edu) or use our recording submission form.