Steppin Out

Helen has been dancing for over 40 years, studying everything from Flamenco, Ballet, Belly Dancing to Ballroom, Latin Dance and Argentinean Tango.  She began her training in Ballroom with Arthur Murray in 1979 and continued with the Bob Dean Dance Studios, Hinton-Pick and the Renaissance Studio in San Francisco to Frank Flores of Allegro Ballroom and Jesica and Gustavo Hornos of Argentine Tango fame!  Her love for Salsa dancing began in the “club circuit” in San Francisco where she learned by experience, dancing with some of the City’s best “Salseros”. Helen has also studied acting with ACT, does Voice-Overs for radio and has been singing in choirs for most of her life. (Traditional hymns, Show Tunes, Jazz and Gospel). She also loves to entertain for parties and special events as well as fundraisers.

The instructor has also taught in Sonoma County at the Hannah Boys Center, The Dance Palace in Point Reyes, Bodyworks Yoga Studio, Yoga One, Suzanne's School of Dance, Petaluma Ballet, Apple Valley Rehabilitation Center, Zenergy, Petaluma Parks and Recreation and Footloose Dance Center and O'Brien Center of the Arts.

Helen has a special passion for working with the elderly and has designed a “Modified Dancercise Program” for Senior Centers and Rehabilitation Centers throughout the North Bay. Currently, Helen teaches both group and private lessons to all ages from beginning to intermediate.  She has a lot of patience and good humor, which helps students to relax, have fun and enjoy the learning process.

Helen has also taught youth dance programs at Harvest Christian School and Mary Collins Elementary School. Currently, Helen teaches classes at Contessi Dance School in Penngrove, CA.