Denise Armstead

The founder and guiding spirit of DA Dance is Denise Armstead, premier dancer with Zenon Dance from 1982-2003. Her approach to dance threads a storyline of human emotions and experiences through jazzy, rhythmic complexity mixed with contemporary nuances, creating multi-layered works of art with a theatrical edge that draws from a large palette of styles, including hip-hop, jazz, lyrical and post-modern movements.

Denise also has an extensive background as qualified horse-riding instructor. Her skills go beyond as an educator, and focus on intuitive communications. She has an acutely trained eye and is a highly skilled coach in the equestrian world as well as in the field of dance. Her intuitive abilities are able to resonate and connect immediately to the student and the horse whether she is working with a beginner or an advanced rider. She cultivates the specific needs for each person.

Her hunter/jumper and dressage training ranges from locally accomplished equestrian trainers. She also does coaching and choreography for the Minnesota Vaulting team.