My international career and involvement in the creative aspects of the art of dance gave me a unique perspective in my teaching and creative work in the studio. Described as a "most gifted and effective teacher", I have many layers to offer students and aspiring professional, or those on the bridge between student and company member. .

Bio

My international career as a principal dancer spanned the San Francisco Ballet, the Stuttgart Ballet and the Birmingham Royal Ballet.  I have worked with some of the 20th century’s most significant choreographers of our time such as Jiri Kylian, William Forsythe, Maurice Bejart, Glen Tetley, Sir Peter Wright, Hans Van Manen, David Bintely and Wayne McGregor, as well as performed principal roles in works by John Cranko, Sir Kenneth MacMillan, George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, Sir Frederick Ashton, Helgi Tomasson and Michael Smuin. My classical repertoire included principal roles in Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, Romeo and Juliet, Nutcracker, Giselle, Coppelia and Grand Pas Classique, among others. My contemporary roles included the Table Solo in Bolero, Queen of the Night in The Magic Flute, Sonata a Trois, Stepping Stones, the Mother in Le Sacre du Printemps...

Teaching Philosophy

My teaching methodology is based on correct alignment of the body, articulate presentation and lengthening of the legs and feet, coordination of port de bras that radiates from the spine and a strong focus on musicality and nuance. My desire is to inspire and instill within students the love and appreciation for dance in all of its beauty and joy. I work with imagery, analogies, and humor to open minds, bodies, and souls to the poetry of dance. Combinations are designed to increase the ability to move lightly and swiftly with strength and elegance. Presentation, musicality and attention to detail are stressed...