Yessenia is a classically trained Cuban-American dancer and instructor from Miami, FL, with 20 years of formal training. She began ballet at three in the Cecchetti and Franco-Russian methods behind the neoclassical style she studied at the Miami Conservatory Ballet (now Armour Dance Theatre) — founded by world-renowned Ballet Russe soloist Thomas Armour. She expanded into pointe, jazz, contemporary, modern, and hip hop, competing nationally and performing in Carmen, Peter Pan, and Footloose.
She holds a Dance minor from Florida International University and a 2013 Martha Graham modern-technique certification. Yessenia has taught ages four to adult — as an FIU faculty substitute and at local studios.
Her Miami-based training gave her the opportunity to work with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, the Jabbawockeez, and the Miami Marlins Cheerleaders, later competing with Salsa Lovers in Latin styles such as Cuban and LA salsa, merengue, and bachata. It was also in college that she fell in love with line dancing and country western. She’s recently expanded her skills to two-step and country swing.
Yessenia brings elite training, an un-intimidating approach, and a genuine belief that anyone can dance. Dance is her therapy, and teaching it is her favorite way to change lives. She’s dedicated to helping students find their rhythm, confidence, and community.
