Laura LeKander

Laura found her way to Ballroom Dancing via Tai Kwon Do. It was a kick to the ribs in a sparring exercise that convinced her to seek a less painful and more elegant way to express her desire for meaningful movement. After a career as a psychotherapist, she reports that her “second life” as a dance instructor easily rivals the fulfillment she experienced in the therapeutic setting.

After exploring training in the American Smooth and Rhythm dances, and experiences as an amateur competitor, Laura was compelled to make a shift to teaching. She began training in earnest, instructing group classes and private lessons, and enjoying NDCA Pro/Am competitions with her students. She expanded her desire to learn by training in the range of Country Western dances, and now enjoys them almost as much as Ballroom, her first love.

“I focus on creating a professional and creatively supportive environment for my students. It’s important to understand how students approach making dance a part of their lives. it can be a fun, exciting and nurturing experience, all at once!”

She is happy to be a part of the ABD family, and looks forward to the excitement of sharing the journey of discovery with her students. She is available for private lessons in Ballroom, Latin, Swing, Country Western, Salsa and Wedding First Dance. Check out her Facebook page, Dance With Laura.

Kerry Kelly

When Kerry was a wee tomboy, her athletic father begged her to take dance as a way to improve her sports performance. She valiantly resisted. Years later, after going into remission from a long battle with a debilitating illness, Kerry signed up for a community social partner-dancing class as rehab. It was all over from then on. (Dad was right!)

She started with training in American, International and Club styles in Northern California, adding in Country Western teacher training upon relocating to Texas.

Kerry’s special love is preparing social dancers with the skills and technique to make their forays into dancing “out in the wild” a joy. She truly believes there is nothing in the world as good as social dance: for body, mind and spirit.