It's amazing that I just attended my first show here! I go to a lot of performances and have regularly attended performances most of my life. Echo Theater is also located in a really convenient spot for me to go to shows! I was very surprised at how wonderful this space is... conveniently, they are able to transform the space to accommodate whatever they are performing. I also , appreciate a snack bar that has a decent array of snacks, though, I confess I was hoping that they had just soda (even just a coke) but I was amused at seeing Capri Sun. I was able to see one of the last showings of Death of a Drag Queen and was completely blown away. When a single performer is able to captivate the audience for over an hour... it speaks to incredible writing, directIon and performance... all of which were clearly present. It also makes me want to come back here to see what else they have going on. read more

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I've been taking classes at Echo since January 2024. I first signed up on my roommate's recommendation, and I'm so glad I did. Training at Echo, I have become stronger both mentally and physically, made awesome new friends, and been inspired to express myself creatively in ways above what I ever imagined. I was totally new to acrobatics before, but now, I feel confident moving in the air, and have even performed in front of an audience! I have taken lyra, mixed aerial, harness, and circus fitness classes at Echo, and every class has been challenging, energizing, fun, ebullient, and creative. The instructors are positive and encouraging, offering modifications and additional explanations to meet students where they're at. Amy especially is the best -- she cultivates a whole class atmosphere that is collaborative, silly, and uplifting. She prompts students to tap into playful creative energy while also leading a workout that will sculpt your entire body! I love that Echo provides opportunities for student performance. At Student Showcases, Echo invites students to bring to the stage whatever they are working on in an incredibly supportive, warm, and empowering environment. Designing and rehearsing a piece with your friends is a bonding experience that challenges you to grow personally and in your circus skills! If you're looking for genuine, authentic, positive people, this is your place. The community at Echo Theater makes it so special. Students cheer each other on in class, design performances together, and form lasting friendships. As a nonbinary person, I really appreciate that the queer community is well-represented at Echo and pronouns are respected. Echo feels like the least-gendered space I've encountered in Portland -- where we're all just a bunch of humans making shapes in the air! I also love that a wide age range is represented in my classes. I am inspired by adults older than I am who are still moving, experimenting, and challenging themselves with fitness! I highly recommend taking classes at Echo if you're interested in aerial, tumbling, dance, or any movement arts. Echo is absolutely the place for trying something new and going outside your comfort zone. My heart lifts every time I walk into the building, anticipating an hour and a half of pure joy (and also sweat and chalk). Sign up for a class, you'll be glad you did :) read more

Echo Theater Company - Performing Arts Near Me - Portland, Oregon

i've been in a pretty bummed out mood lately because the weather made me sit at home for way too long. my friend invited me to go watch DO Jump at the Echo Theatre and i was glad to take him up on his offer. i've broken up the review into two parts- the theater and the DO Jump show. Echo Theatre: the theatre is located a block off of hawthorne on the other side of the Baghdad. it is a very small venue where even if you are in the back row you are still less than 30 or so feet from the stage. i would say there are twenty rows and it has a very cozy feel to it. the sound travels well since the space is small. i enjoy this kind of atmosphere as i'm able to see and hear everything perfectly. DO Jump: a ~1 1/2 hour fun for all ages variety show. i was really impressed with it. i came in with no expectations and came out pleased. the show involves a lot of dexterity, comedy and creativity. i was really surprised at how an "All Ages" show could keep me entertained (i get bored fairly easy). the first half of the show was amazing. i actually laughed quite a bit (yes- i said it). the routines were funny, engaging and unique. to clear up some of my vagueness: lots of gymnastics, dancing, and juggling etc... loved the first half! intermission - time to grab some san pellegrino they were offering ($2 for a huge bottle - wow) second half - this is where i've knocked them down a point. the second half was just not as good as the first. there were much fewer routines and i was really not impressed with the longest one of all (the one with the doors). at least the excitement from the first half made the second one ok. all things considered - the show is fun - definitely something you can bring kids and adults of all ages too- go check it out. i'll be back next year. read more

Echo Theater Company - Performing Arts Near Me - Portland, Oregon

I came here with friends to see an aerial event that my friend was performing in. I live nearby but never knew this place existed because it's on a side street and the entrance is a bit nondescript. I don't exactly know what other kinds of shows get performed here, but the stadium seats were comfy and you have a good view no matter where you choose to sit. However; it became hot immediately, so if you sit up at the top - far from the fans - wear layers that can be peeled off. While they do not serve alcohol, they did serve soda and cookies. However; if you wanted a meal-meal, there is McMenamins across the street and multiple restaurants within walking distance (Three Doors Down is a fave) for that. I think anyone can rent this place for shows, so it's a good location for smaller crowds - of 200 or so. read more

This place is such a charming great space located just off Hawthorne. Who knew?! I was fortunate enough to get invited to my first puppet slam here. Ok, that in and of itself was mind blowing. I highly recommend most of the random and amazing shows this space hosts. But even more suited is it's build out to carry some of our local aerialist groups! These shows are diverse and enchanting. Please support our local arts and find a show that fits your interests cuz this venue is great and has had such a long history here in Portland. Seats are often on sale early and with assigned spots so you never have to fret about not getting a seat. Enjoy the great view and setup to enjoy many different acts. read more

Echo Theater Company - Amazing aerialist show - Performing Arts Near Me - Portland, Oregon

I have mixed feelings about this place. The class we took was quite more theater heavy than the title would indicate, which wasn't a good fit for my child. They would not give us a refund but did allow us to apply what we had paid for the upcoming semester to a birthday party. I was a bit offended when during the party (which I'd paid over $300 for) the staff asked me to ask parents to be quiet or leave and go into the lobby. I understand that it was difficult for the children to hear, but this was a private party, and I wanted the adults to feel comfortable and enjoy themselves, as well. Perhaps a solution would be to use mics so the children could hear better? The lobby is quite small and crooked, so there is really no comfortable place to sit. I did not feel comfortable asking my guests to be quiet or leave and go into the cramped, crooked lobby. At one time during the party a three year old was running around, and I noticed that one of the teachers gave him a death glare. It was also apparent to the other parents, who commented to me about it. Again, I understand the staff's perspective, it's annoying to teach a child that doesn't listen, but 1) this is developmentally appropriate behavior for a 3 year old and 2) This was a private party, meant to be fun for everyone in attendance. It's not a terrible place, I am sure that there are theater-minded children that would enjoy it here. However, I would not recommended it for a private party. We've had less expensive parties with friendlier staff at the Children's Gym and the Playground Gym. I'd also be hesitant to recommend it for children that are primarily interested in the physical aspects of the class, as there is quite a bit of theater and waiting around for their turn. One more note, there is a policy that parents are not allowed to stay and watch. This is to help children focus, which is understandable. However, it can be a bit of an inconvenience for parents who'd prefer to stay. read more

Took daughter here with some friends for a 1 hour private class....absolutely incredible! The gal who worked with us was INCREDIBLE with the girls! We fell in love! Daughter wants to take weekly classes! read more

Echo Theater Company - Performing Arts Near Me - Portland, Oregon

We take the Grands to see whatever show Do Jump is offering for Christmas and it is a huge hit with all of us, from 8-80. There's wonderful music, lots of fun and laughs, beautiful segments, it's a fantastic time. My 8 y/o daughter has taken classes at Do Jump for 4 years, and she's learned enough to make it worth every penny, but her strength, confidence, and positive body image, and the supportive teachers are more than I knew we were getting, and so, so, so valuable. She loves these classes more than any other she's taken (and she's liked a lot of classes). read more

My boys are two days into a five day circus camp. Parents get to watch the first class, and the rest of the week, the kiddos and trainers put together a secret show for family to watch. I was impressed at how engaging and personable the trainers are and how excited my kids are to go back. I only wish that the class was a little longer. I'm looking forward to watching the performance on Friday. read more

This is definitely not a place if your child is serious about circus or becoming a better athlete/performer. This place is mostly theater-focused, and some of the coaches are not well-qualified to teach aerial skills to kids. This is according to what I have observed and to what other parents have said. There was a new coach, however, that really helped my daughter improve (Kaya/Kaia), and my daughter really enjoyed private lessons with her. If you want to introduce your child to aerial, this can be a good place to start, but this is not a good place for intermediate or advanced kids because of the huge class sizes, low ceilings, complicated rigging set-up, and ability of the some of the coaches. read more

What an amazing show and at a very family-friendly price. We loved the intimate theater, the interaction with the audience, and the sheer fun of it all. Anywhere you sit you will be fine. My daughter and her friend that I took to the Ah Haaa Christmas show both to acrobatics and dance, and it was perfect for them. A small but versatile band accompanied the show, and made it even more wonderful. We will be returning. read more

I enrolled my grandson in a Do Jump class as his 7th birthday present--here at the end of the week I'm here to report that I am completely impressed with the organization, the teachers, the venue. The boy had a blast and learned all kinds of new tricks--and has more self confidence now regarding his abilities to flip, flop, go upside down, soar on a trapeze swing. So glad I did this-- read more

My daugther participate in a few Do Jump! dropping classes and she love it so much than I have registered her for a full term. I think is the right fit for her because ballet was too up tight for her and Gymnastics are too expensives. Do Jumpo has a little bit of both and more. She has found her fit. read more