Longtime instructor helps students find their dancing shoes

Six years ago, Diane Gormen wanted to feel at ease on the dance floor.

The Brandon resident turned to instructor Donna Garzone, who opened up the world of dancing.

"Donna showed me I actually have rhythm. She has a tremendous following, because she genuinely understands movement, is patient and gives constructive encouragement," Gormen said.

Garzone, who has danced her whole life, began offering lessons 11 years ago. She now offers regular classes in Brandon and Plant City, along with private instruction.

"I've had a lot of people come to me who thought they couldn't dance. I have loved every moment of proving them wrong," Garzone said.

Garzone has had years of training to perfect her skill as a dancer, including as a scholarship student with the San Francisco Ballet Co. But she put her dancing on hold to devote her time to family life, before deciding to use her skills to teach others.

"Since 9/11, I discovered how much dance relieved anxiety. Now we have students who are learning to relieve tension and stress in a positive and constructive way. I am grateful that what I love to do can make a difference in people's lives," said Garzone, who offers instruction in such dances as ballroom, Argentine tango and more.

Twice a month, she holds dance parties in the Stardust Dance Center, at 1405 S. Collins St. in Plant City. The events include snacks, desserts and plenty of dancing for $10 per person. Her co-host is fellow dance instructor Kevin Rios.

Other regular classes include ballroom dancing, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Brandon Community Center, 502 E. Sadie St.; and 6 to 7 p.m. Thursdays at the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St., Plant City.

"I wanted to make learning how to dance affordable for everyone, and give people an opportunity to see how much fun it is by only charging $10 per class or $25 for a month," she said.

Garzone and another instructor, Glen Fetty, also offer beginner II classes in Argentine tango at 7:45 p.m. Mondays at the Stardust. The cost is $12 per two-hour class.

For information about lessons and dance parties, go to www .affordableballroomdance.com or call (813) 340-9433.