Carnaval Dance | Photographer : Boyboystudios❋
welcome to stephanie owen dance website
Let's Dance! But first, this is a story of my dance beginnings.My first dance class was not at the studio, but at home. My family took music and movement as a way to connect and celbrate life. From listening to motown to salsa, with a touch of folk rock to funk music, we were definitely dancing and living through the harmonies and melodies that made up the culture. the city was san francisco, and my love for dance started in my hometown.
❋ My First StepsI danced to salsa, merengue, and cumbia in many living rooms of family parties. I had mini choreographies in my head while listening to R&B, Hip Hop, and Pop music during childhood. I started choreographing during recess at school, and brought my boombox to practice dance moves.
❋ The StudioBrazilian Samba was my first dance studio experience as a teenager. That’s were I danced with live drumming for the first time. During that period I was a Dama in a Quinceanera, were I first experienced the Waltz. I was taught dance styles from South America to Europe in the Mission Distrct of San Francisco.
❋ College BeginningsAfter choreographing many dance pieces while listening to a huge range of music genres during my youth, it was time to decide on a college major. I went to three different community colleges in the Bay Area and was inspired to take as many dance classes as possible. I trained in Ballet, Jazz, and Modern. I was introduced to African diaspora dances in Afro - Haitian and more Afro- Brazilian. I went to the dance studios in the city to learn more Modern and Afro Caribbean dances, including Afro-Cuban and Cuban Modern. Four years later, I earned an AA Degree in Dance at Skyline College.
❋ Business to DanceI took my time with my studies and finally decided to get a BA in Business Administration.I worked as a receptionist and an accounting assistant since I was 16 years old. But after one semester, I changed my mind! I was drawn to the drum, as I decided to enroll in a Congolese dance class. And that was it! At San Francisco State University I studied choreography, dance history, and more Afrcan Diaspora movement. I continued learning about Afro Caribbean culture in dance, and was introduced to Dunham Technique (a Modern dance). I graduated on the Dean’s list with a BA degree in Dance. How wild!
And the rest is history! I worked with a variety of dance studios, theaters, community/rec centers, and arts organizations for over 20 years. With that came long standing residencies at public schools and independent dance schools to work as a dance educator for preK-12th grade levels. I also started a youth dance program and hip hop dance company, plus choreographed and co founded Carnaval (street festival) dance groups. With a sprinkle of working as a choreographer with one Latin recording artist, teaching some pop up classes in hip hop and samba/salsa for adults, and about a dozen of weddings and quinceneras, I had a ton of fun working with all of the people that helped mold my career in dance.And now?
I am here to be your next dance choreographer, coach, and instructor as an independent dance artist.
5,6,7,werk.
WorkshopsPop Up style sessions with rich content
As a Dance Instructor I love leading workshops. It’s a great way to receieve a ton of education in one event. It’s also a way to figure out if a dance style or technique is what your body and mind find to be enjoyable, satisfying, and/or challenging. This can also help refine your expertise in the dedicated dance discipline if you’re a pro.This is a type of dance event that can lead you into the right direction to find your next step in your dance journey.
Samba WorkshopsDance is from Brazil, quick and requires coordination between feet, hips, and arms. It’s heavy in cardio and you work acroos the floor like crazy.
Heel To FloorHeels dance workshop moving from standing, steping, walking, to floor work. Specialized studio dance heels (suede bottoms) and knee pads required.
Introduction to ChoreographyAll levels and all styles of dancers are welcome. We dive into the choreographic process and build ideas for the artist’s next masterpiece.
Introduction to Latin DanceA breakdown in Latin dance and the body mechanics behind the movement.Primarily focus on Bachata, Merengue, and Salsa.
Introduction to DanceThis is a true beginners experience. This is for the person who woud love to have a dance caach, but not too sure where to start. This focuses on popular current dance styles to just knowing how to dance at a party/social event.
Classesdance class schedule for your dance journey
I love guiding dancers and watching their progress! Having a home base to learn is what helps the dancer become connected to their craft while building community.This is a quick reference guide to the in person dance classes I teach in the San Francicso Bay Area.
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CoachingDancers of all levels and Disciplines, i can coach you to the next level of your dance
I am a dancer and choreographer that has a history in studying a variety of genres in dance forms and technique. My coaching helps the dancer refine their own stylization, understand more thoroughly the dance discipline performed, and help the artist be the best version of themselves in their craft. My main ingredient to help you become a better dancer? Being able to dance WITH the music…Musicality, all day!
Check out the following examples below on ways a dance coach will work for you. Note: This service is open to ages 15 and up. Coaching is available online and in person.
Ballet DancerNeeds help connecting movement
Salsa DancerNeeds help in being a better follower
Competitive Hip Hop DancerNeeds help with technique
Contemporary DancerNeeds help with performing on stage
Any professionNeeds help in basic dance moves