In 1996 Jessica Davis brought her passion to her hometown and began an extension of Evergreen Dance here in Vernonia. Classes were held originally in the Legion Hall and eventually moved to the Vernonia Community Church (now Grace Fellowship). After a few years Jessica decided to begin her own dance school, and thus Vernonia Ballet was born in in 2006! Classes moved from the church to the Learning Center, then to our current home-- the Vernonia Grange. Over the years the program has evolved, always offering ballet to all ages and some years offering tap, hip hop, and contemporary classes as well.
Like many businesses, Vernonia Ballet decided to close it's doors during the pandemic and became a part of Evergreen Dance once more. As of 2022 we are proud and excited to say that we are back, but now as Vernonia Ballet + Performing Arts. In addition to dance, we now offer theater classes to adults and youth. We are committed to providing fun and safe after school activities to our community. If you're interested in being a part of our family, we'd love to have you!
About
Founder of Vernonia Ballet
Director 2006-2024
After 28 years of teaching in Vernonia, Sleeping Beauty is Jessica's last show as Director of Vernonia Ballet. Her and her family are beginning their new adventure in Central Oregon starting next month.
On behalf of every student, parent, and community member past & present that has been involved with Vernonia Ballet, we give a big THANK YOU to Jessica and her family for the many years of teaching, beautiful shows, and friendship! Vernonia Ballet has been a big part of the arts community for years and it is all thanks to Jessica.
Jessica Davis
Director as of 2024 / Ballet Teacher
I am a mom of two, event planner, and 5th-generation Vernonian. When not at work or dance, I enjoy painting, playing with my kids, karaoke and catching up on TV shows with my sisters.
I started dancing when I was 7 here in Vernonia. In 2007 I began student-teaching alongside Jessica and in 2009 started teaching Pre-K and Ballet 1 classes. Dancing took an 8-year pause when I graduated high school, though I came back to the program in 2022 and am excited to be teaching again!
Jessica Gardner
Ballet + Drama Teacher
My family lives on a small farm just outside of Vernonia, where we raise sheep, goats, and chickens. I spend most of my time in the kitchen or the garden, and homeschooling my three children (all of whom are involved with Vernonia Ballet).
Growing up in Colorado, I was involved for years in the performing arts, including dance, theatre, choir, and orchestra. I first met Jessica in 2014, when my daughter started taking ballet, and we quickly became friends. A few years later I started teaching classes, and helping Jessica turn her creative visions into organized performances
Katy Davis
