Guest Coaches

The World’s Best Dancers and Coaches, in Our Studio!

Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Mokena offers and delivers the finest in group and private ballroom dance classes, but we also bring you a great variety in our professional coaching. Broaden your knowledge and skills by meeting and working with some true standouts. You’ll be glad you did. These professionals have helped shape the dance industry and continue to inspire the teaching methods used throughout the dance community. We encourage you to enroll today with one (or better, both!) of these special guest coaches.

Wednesday, December 10
Marylynn Benitez
Coaching Day

  • Executive Dance Board Member
  • Area Dance Director
  • National Examiner
  • With Fred Astaire Dance Studios since 1993

BIO

Marylynn Benitez was first introduced to the world of Ballroom dancing while attending the University of Southern California, where she became a member of its Formation Dance Team, headed by Carol Montez. She continued as an Amateur competitor in the International Latin Style. Her Amateur career culminated in becoming the US National Champion and representing the US in three consecutive World Championships. As a Professional competitor, she earned Championship Titles in the US and internationally, including US Rising Star International Latin Champion, British Rising Star International Latin Champion and Fred Astaire International Latin Champion. Other professional achievements include choreography and roles in movies and television productions. She has also had the opportunity to share her expertise in the University arena. Marylynn has been a part of the Fred Astaire Dance Studios family since 1993 as a Competitor, Instructor, Studio Owner, Coach, National Dance Board Member, National Adjudicator and National Examiner.

ACHIEVEMENTS

  • British International Rising Star Latin Champion
  • Blackpool Rising Star Latin Finalist
  • Represented the USA in Blackpool Team Match
  • United States Latin Finalist
  • United States Rising Star Latin Champion
  • Ohio Star Ball Finalist and featured soloist in PBS Telecast
  • Fred Astaire International Latin Champion
  • Fred Astaire Examiner
  • Collaborated in the creation of the Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ Silver and Gold Level Syllabus, and Demonstrator in the Silver Syllabus DVDs
  • Assistant Choreographer and featured dancer in the films Salsa and Dance With Me

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

  • International Latin
  • American Rhythm
  • American Smooth
  • Choreography
  • Professional Certification