I believe that anyone can learn to dance – it’s never too late! Making dance a part of your life can bring about growth in ways that are often unexpected and that transcend physical accomplishment. Dancing has been a major source of joy in my life, and I love teaching because it gives me the opportunity to help others discover that same joy for themselves.

From an early age I knew that I wanted to be a dancer. At 6 I took my first ballet class, followed by many years of intense training. When I was 13 my family moved from New York to California, where I auditioned for the Oakland Ballet. I was accepted as an apprentice and became the youngest performing member of the company. At 18 I was promoted to full-time principal dancer. As a Principal Ballerina I performed leading roles and toured extensively through the United States and Europe. I worked under the artistic leadership of world renowned choreographers and artistic luminaries including Leonide Massine, Irina Nijinska, Eugene Loring, Agnes De Mille, Anna Sokolow, John Butler, Ruthanna Boris, Aaron Copeland, and the legendary dancer Frederic Franklin, who coached me for my debut as Giselle.

After dancing professionally for over 20 years, I retired from my career as a performer and turned my attention to teaching. I enjoy teaching all styles of dance from Ballroom to Ballet, to students of all levels. I often have the most fun working with beginning adult dancers who, after just a few lessons, are surprised and delighted by how much they are capable of accomplishing. I also enjoy coaching and choreographing for advanced and professional dancers, working with them on all aspects of performance quality. In addition, I teach stretching and toning classes at the Metronome for all levels.

In 2001, as Artistic Director of the Metronome’s summer Showcase, I decided to bring our production to the professional stage. This summer (2003) will be the Metronome’s third year performing on stage to sold out crowds at the Cowell Theater at Fort Mason.

In my free time I enjoy reading great books, watching great films, seeing as much live theater and dance as I can, hiking in the redwoods, eating delicious vegetarian food, and laughing with friends and family.

Dances I teach (and level)
American Style: Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Rumba, Cha Cha, Salsa, Bolero, East Coast Swing, & Night Club Two Step (Beginning & Intermediate)
Argentine Tango (Level 1 & 1+)
Ballet (Beginning through Professional)
Stretching and Toning (all levels)

Dance training and experience

• Danced professionally for over 20 years
• Former Principal Ballerina, Oakland Ballet Company
• Director of the Metronome’s Ballet Program
• Director of Metronome Showcase, Cowell Theatre
• Choreographed, staged, and directed numerous ballets and theater productions

Dance certifications

Teaching Since
1980

Compete or perform with students?
Ocassionally