Qualified Teachers

Deanna Stephens (Owner and Teacher)

Deanna's passion for dance has been a driving force throughout her entire life that has culminated in opening the Uptempo Dance Studio. Her goal is to share the joy of dance with the people of Barrie and the surrounding areas. Deanna has been teaching ballroom and latin dance since 2015 after discovering her passion for the style in 2008. She has won awards at multiple competitions. Her experience teaching includes both private and group lessons in Barrie, Ontario and at Palm Beach Atlantic University. Before that, she trained as a dance teacher and served as a dance intern to assist the teachers in the lessons at Paramount Ballroom Studios in West Palm Beach. She also has experience in developing wedding choreography for couple's first dances and choreographing stage musicals. She currently teaches a variety of dances, including: cha cha, rumba, east coast swing, samba, merengue, tango, waltz, foxtrot, hustle, kizomba, salsa, and bachata.

Ben Tusim

Ben has an abundance of energy and enthusiasm! He has been dancing, performing, and teaching for many years and has won numerous high score and overall awards throughout North America. Ben is certified as a dance instructor with both the Latin & Smooth curriculum through the DVIDA Syllabus. He is a very dedicated teacher who enjoys sharing his love of dance with his students which have won many top awards in all fields of dance. Ben has trained with the renowned judge and host of ‘Dancing at the Palais’, Mr. Allan Arsmby; as well as the Canadian Ballroom 10 dance champion, Mr. Claude Crevier. Ben was also a part of and trained with the group ‘Strictly Salsa’, focusing on salsa influenced from different parts of the world. Such as New York, LA, and Puerto Rico. Ben is also the owner of 2some Dance that hosted the annual dance event 'Toronto Dances with the Stars' which featured dancers from the hit TV show 'Dancing with the Stars' and 'So you Think You Can Dance'.

David Roberts

With a dynamic fusion of Hip-Hop, Contemporary, and Latin styles, my dance journey ignited in 2003. From my roots in Lagos, Nigeria, training with the "Priests of Praise," I've evolved into a versatile artist, marked by a profound commitment to dance.

Specializing in Hip Hop, Salsa, Bachata, Contemporary, Abstract, Afro-Hip-hop, Afro-Latin, and stunt choreography, I draw inspiration from the rhythmic diversity of each genre. Whether it's the passionate rhythms of Latin dance or the raw energy of Hip-hop, my performances showcase a dedication to mastering the art form.

In my role as a choreographer, I've crafted captivating routines that seamlessly blend tradition with contemporary flair. My choreography is known for its storytelling, intricate footwork, aerial maneuvers, props, and dynamic lifts, creating an immersive experience for both performers and audiences.

As a teacher, my philosophy revolves around fostering creativity, building strong foundations, understanding the purpose behind dancing, promoting growth, finding joy in the art, and empowering students to discover their unique voice in the dance world.

To me, dance is more than movement—it's a language that transcends boundaries, conveying emotions words cannot express. I am committed to pushing the boundaries of my craft, exploring new expressions, and contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the dance community.

Zhengquan Liang

Zhengquan Liang is a professional dancer and an expert in various types of dances. He participated in many ballroom dance competitions since he was 12 years old. One of his recent awards is that he won First Place in the Professional standard in the CBDF Beijing 2nd Ballroom Dance (Sports Dance) National Open 2017 competition. He focused on the international style of ballroom and Latin dance. He is a certified teacher of the International Dance Teachers’ Association (IDTA). In addition, he received professional ballet training and learned ballet teaching methods in college. He also is an experienced choreographer. He currently teaches: ballroom (waltz, tango, slow foxtrot, quick step, and Viennese waltz) and Latin (cha cha, rumba, samba, and Jive).

Allen Charles

Allen fell in love with dance years ago and returned to dancing in Oct. 2022! After becoming one of Uptempo Barrie's most dedicated students, taking nearly every class, he joined our intensive Teacher Training Program. He is now ready to take his dance journey to the next level and wants you to join him!

Karen Clark

Karen started dancing as a child in ballet for over 15 years, also training in jazz and tap. As an adult, she took teacher training with Arthur Murray Toronto in ballroom, and studied under Ken Atkinson in Orillia in 2017. Other styles that Karen has training in are flamenco, bellydance, and Irish dance.

Latin dance took a hold of Karen in the late 90's and she's never looked back. Trained as an assistant teacher with Dance To Live and Steps Dance Studio, then taught with United Salseros, Go Dance Mambo, and Latin Energy and received her Teachers' Certification. She's volunteered and trained with instructors from around the world at the Canada Salsa Congress for 10 years, and travelled to other congresses to learn from the best.