Dance Instructors
World Class coaches will be the instructors for all classes and, if desired, for private classes.
Ron and Karla Montez
Ron Montez is one of the most respected personalities in the Dance business. He was the 7-time undefeated United States Professional Latin Champion. He also placed as high as 4th place in the World's Professional Latin Championship and was a finalist in the prestigious British Championship. He is recognized as coach and choreographer in both American and International Styles including Swing and Mambo. Ron is the Co-Host of the PBS Championships Ballroom Dance Program, which was hosted by Rita Moreno, the late Juliet Prowse, Barbara Eden, Sandy Duncan and Jasmine Guy.
Karla Montez has a dance background of Ballet and Jazz. She traveled with a Dance Company for 13 years, capturing the U.S. Open Cabaret Championship. Karla brings this rich background of Dance to this exciting partnership. Now, along with her dancing, Karla has ventured into a Real Estate career in Tucson.
Ron and Karla enjoy dancing together, teaching classes and workshops together, and performing in shows. They have three beautiful children and reside in Tucson, Arizona, where they devote a great deal of time to their family.
You can schedule coaching with Ron Montez anytime during the year by
phone. Call (520) 744-6272 or email at Rondance@comcast.net.
For your Real Estate questions, contact Karla at KarlaM@Longrealty.com
Jim & Jenell Maranto
Jim and Jenell are two-times U.S. Professional American Smooth Champions, and are Licentiates in the Imperial Society Ballroom Branch. They have owned and operated their school, The Academy of Ballroom Dance since 1987.
Jim and Jenell have ranked among the top 7 in the World Showdance and are winners & four -time nominees of the U.S. Feather Dance Awards. They hold every major American Smooth title in the U.S., as well as many in the International Standard.
These trainers of numerous U.S. Pro-Am and Amateur Champions are now retired from competition dancing and are busy teaching and demonstrating both American and International styles , as well as judging many of the competitions.
Decho Braev and Bree Watson
Decho Kraev was born in Karlovo, Bulgaria and began his competitive dancing career at the age of eight. His dedication, talent and determination brought him to the highest levels of recognition. He enjoyed a successful amateur career followed by coaching junior couples who also experienced great success. Decho moved to the United States in 2003 where he continued his career as a professional dance sport teacher and competitor at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Phoenix, Arizona. There he met his current professional partner and love of his life, Bree.
Bree Watson was born in Savannah, Georgia and began dancing ballet and tap at a very early age. She strengthened her background at the North Carolina School of Performing Arts. She has taught ballroom dancing in several studios in Knoxville, Tennessee and Minneapolis, Minnesota..
In just five short years they have had a remarkably successful professional career including:
- 2007 U.S. National Theatre Arts Champions
- 2007 Ohio Star Ball Professional Theatrical Arts Champion
- 2008 Blackpool Professional Invitation Exhibition Finalist
- 2008 U.S. National Professional Rhythm Championship 3rd Place
- Finalists in all major U.S. & Open to the World Professional Events
Decho and Bree are known for their tremendous technique and highly creative routines. You will no doubt witness one of the strongest technical performances on the floor. Pay special attention to Bree’s exceptional footwork, lovely extensions and fabulous lines. Decho’s perfect balance creates a beautiful frame for Bree which illustrates an exciting and attractive couple as they present the true character of each dance with elegance and sophistication.
Decho, Bree and their Yorkey Ernie currently live in Tempe, Arizona.