Heather Portue, born in northern California, moved to north Idaho, at the age of seven. Shortly after moving, she began dancing at Ballet Coeur d’Alene. With the guidance of Ballet Coeur d’Alene’s artistic director, Ceci Klein, she cultivated a deep love for ballet that includes both the routine and discipline of dance, as well as the artistry and performance. Heather continued her study of ballet and other dance styles in high school, at the Spokane Valley Academy of Dance with Kristen Potts, Phaedra Jarrett and Lesley Gray. During this time, she had the opportunity to play the role of Cindy in a modern ballet called Cindyrella. Developing the character and exploring the way movement could portray the classic fairy tale in a new light made this particular performance a special part of Heather’s dancing journey. Currently, Heather studies at Whitworth University majoring in Education and minoring in dance. She takes dance classes from Karla Parbon and Pam Erickson. This fall, she will be teaching beginning ballet for Jubilation, Whitworth’s dance ministry. Heather is eager to begin a new chapter of her dancing experience with Vytal Movement Dance Company and is honored to be a part of such a wonderful group of artists.

Header photo credit - Scott Martinez Photography

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