Stumptown Dance

Stumptown Dance was founded in 2004 and has been rooted in Portland's swing community ever since. The studio is passionate about swing-era music and dance, with a focus on authenticity, integrity, safety and attention to detail. Owner and primary instructor Mindy Barnhart began swing dancing in 1997, quit her day job in 2005 to teach full-time, and purchased the studio in 2009. She has devoted herself to setting a high standard for fun, safety and integrity in the Portland dance community, attending out-of-town events for inspiration and competing occasionally—claiming several awards as both follower and leader. Her true love, however, is social dancing and teaching.

The studio runs a comprehensive lesson programme for all levels and experience, from complete beginners through advanced dancers. The Crash Course at Sunday Swing offers an accessible entry point, while the Beginners Getting Serious FUNdamentals Series provides a paced, foundational pathway. Intermediate and advanced dancers can progress through Lindy Hop series (levels 1–5), Partner Charleston series, Lindy Swivels, Leader Style, and many specialised classes including Dipping, Lifts & Leaps, Solo Jazz, Shim Sham, and Hacksaws. The studio also offers private lessons in multiple formats: First Timer Mini Private (1–2 people), Traditional Private lessons, Small Group Private (3–4 people), and larger group options for churches, schools and friend groups.

Beyond group and private lessons, Stumptown Dance hosts regular social dance events. Sunday Swing and Crash Course nights welcome all levels and ages with no partner needed. The studio also runs Dress Up & Dance Nights, Themed Nights, and Dance Competitions. They offer private event hosting for birthdays, corporate parties, wedding receptions, and school or church functions, positioning dance as an enhancement to your celebration.

Mindy emphasises that learning is a journey, not a destination, and that talent is a pursued interest. The studio structure encourages students to progress through a Prerequisite Flow Chart at their own pace and respect class prerequisites for the integrity of the material. Instructors provide approval before students advance, and the studio encourages a combination of group lessons and regular private lessons as the most effective learning path.

For your first visit, the studio recommends arriving 15 minutes early to register and warm up, as classes start on time. Beginners should consider the Crash Course at Sunday Swing (no partner needed) or a First Timer Mini Private lesson. You'll work with instructors focused on good body mechanics and safety, in an environment where fun and creativity are core values.

Mindy Barnhart is the owner, primary instructor and founder of the current Stumptown Dance. She began swing dancing in 1997, has competed as both follower and leader, and has claimed several awards. The studio also works with contracted DJs and instructors who have spent countless hours refining their crafts and share a passion for dance.

Absolute beginners can start with the Crash Course at Sunday Swing or a First Timer Mini Private lesson; the studio offers a structured Beginners Getting Serious FUNdamentals Series and encourages students to respect prerequisites as they progress.