|
Rachel Morris "accidentally"
fell into the ballroom dance world in 2000. She assumed the studio
she was walking into was for small children learning ballet, tap,
and jazz. Upon her arrival to be a receptionist, the couple twirling
around the dance floor stopped her in her tracks. She didn't know
what dance that was...."WALTZ". She immediately turned
around to leave and was promptly asked by another instructor to
stay. She told Rachel, "Come meet with the owner. We need
tall females to teach!" Rachel then started training a week
later, learning all aspects of Ballroom Dancing and instantly
fell in love with the Art.
She was a captain of her small town dance
team in Vian, Oklahoma and instantly grew to love this new genre
of dance. It gave her so many aspects to consider of her talent:
smooth, swing, rhythm, latin, country western, socializing,
etc.
Rachel has been teaching, coaching, and
judging dance events for 20+ years. She is currently managing
Strictly Ballroom in Tulsa, a studio to which she holds in high
regard. She originally managed Strictly Ballroom in her early
years as an instructor. She also owned Ballroom Revolution in
Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, for many years with her long-time friend.
She absolutely loves everything this wonderful
art has brought into her own life and others. Through dance
she has raised money for many non-profit organizations, including
Hospitality House of Tulsa, CASA of Payne County, and San Miguel
Schools. She prides herself in the talent and the ability she
has teaching to make everyone's life more fulfilled through
dance.
|
|
|
|
|
For close to thirty years,
Matt Coulter has been meticulously honing his artistry, leaving
an indelible mark as not only a distinguished dance instructor
but also an assertive and effective supervisor. With a remarkable
journey spanning 28 years as a seasoned ballroom dance professional,
Matt's true brilliance emerges in the realm of Latin dances. Here,
he orchestrates an artistic symphony, fusing the captivating elements
of American and International styles into an unmissable spectacle
that ignites the floor.
Matt's influence radiates through his multifaceted
roles. He has imparted his wisdom to eager students, shaped
aspiring instructors, guided competitive dancers to their zenith,
and lent his discerning eye as a judge in competitions. His
passion for teaching becomes evident as he kindles the flame
of potential within his students, making them realize that the
enchanting world of ballroom dance is well within their grasp.
Yet, Matt's contributions stretch even
further, speaking volumes of his heart. In certain situations,
he extends his expertise to those who may not have the financial
means, offering pro-bono instruction to help them reach their
aspirations, thus fostering inclusivity within the dance community
and giving back graciously. Endowed with great courage and an
unparalleled mastery of his craft, Matt's talent shines brilliantly.
He is not just an instructor; he's a luminary, an advocate of
possibilities, and a guiding light for dancers across generations.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tom Teramoto is from the Japanese
mega-city Osaka in Japan. Yet, his passion for ballroom dance
has literally taken him around the world. First discovering the
modern rhythms of ballroom through the Australian dance troupe
Burn the Floor, he later decided to study modern International
Latin Dance and Salsa in San Diego under the critically acclaimed
dancers Olga Ginsberg, Pepe Alvarez, Christina Santana and Marry
Murphy from SYTYCD. He later made the move to Shanghai for academic
studies and continued his passion for dance while there.
Tom has been trained in Jazz,
Ballet, and International Ballroom Dance in the UK, and later
returned to his home country to teach International Latin dance,
Jazz, and ZUMBA in Osaka. Throughout this time, Tom has also engaged
in competitive dancing and Latin performance.
Tom Teramoto is excited to
share his immense passion for dance with the people of Tulsa.
|
|
|
|
|
The owner of Strictly Ballroom, Yvonne
Mears, personifies the beauty of a life driven by dedication,
adaptability, and a positive outlook. After an esteemed career
of thirty-six years within the public school system, retirement
became a gateway to fresh pursuits. Not one to embrace idleness,
Yvonne's journey brought her to an unforeseen chapter as the
proprietor of Strictly Ballroom. This establishment became a
canvas for her profound love for dance and music. From her earliest
recollections, melodies and movement have been a constant source
of joy. She fondly recalls childhood Saturdays spent dancing
with her grandmother at country gatherings, twirling in a vibrant
purple dress adorned with banjos and violins.
Yvonne's youthful years saw her immersed
in ballet and tap dancing, yet it was the rhythmic allure of
tap shoes that left an indelible mark. College introduced her
to square dancing, a realm where music, turns, and the allure
of swirling dresses converged. Remarkably adaptable, Yvonne
often took on the role of both partners, a feat that allowed
her to dance more frequently, even within intricate formations.
Her journey eventually led her to the elegance
of ballroom dancing, a realm previously uncharted. The allure
of the music, the grace of the turns, and the joy of dancing
in the company of kindred spirits kindled a new passion. Now,
as the heart of Strictly Ballroom, Yvonne's aspiration is to
spread the enchantment and transformative power of dance. Beyond
its physicality, she recognizes dance as a conduit to emotional
well-being. The simple act of tapping feet and moving to melodies
can illuminate even the darkest days.
Yvonne extends an open invitation to join
the warm and inviting family at Strictly Ballroom. Whether one
seeks to learn the intricacies of ballroom dance or aims to
showcase existing talents, this venue promises a welcoming ambiance,
congenial company, and a secure space to revel in the magic
of dance.
|
|
|
|
