An accomplished dancer and choreographer, Carmen has trained and danced professionally in Seattle, New York City, and Los Angeles. Originally from Seattle, WA, Carmen trained extensively in dance at Elizabeth's Dance Dimensions and Westlake Dance Center. Carmen began teaching at a young age through a student teacher program at Elizabeth's Dance Dimensions, a studio recognized by Dance Spirit and Dance Teacher magazines as one of the "Top 50" dance studios in the United States. In 1998, Carmen won a full summer scholarship to Westlake Dance Center, a studio recognized nationally for its production of outstanding dancers and choreography.
Carmen first began performing and choreographing for All City Jazz Dance Company in 1991. Through this company, Carmen had the opportunity to perform and showcase her choreography at many venues, including Seattle's Seafair and Winterfest festivals. Carmen was a company member and soloist with the national award-winning dance companies, Mo-Dazz and Westlake Performing Group. Carmen was an original member of Seattle hip hop company, Cruz Control. She spent one season with contemporary company Phoenix Rising in New York City. In 2001, Carmen won the prestigious Richard Ellner Scholarship from Broadway Dance Center. Through this scholarship program, Carmen trained intensively in dance for six months. Choreographers that she worked under include: David Howard, Michele Assaf, Wes Veldink, Jeff Amsden, Jermaine Browne, Germaine Goodson, Tracie Stanfield, Pam Chancey, Brooke Notary, and Rhapsody.
Carmen has performed in and choreographed for numerous dance shows throughout the United States. Her choreography has won top awards at many regional and national dance competitions. Her love of dance and teaching has allowed her the opportunity to travel the Unites States sharing her knowledge and setting her choreography on today's top performers. Carmen is very excited to join the exceptional team here at Dance Unlimited!