About Us

Ms. Bedenk started her dance career 30 years ago with extensive training in Ballet, Jazz and Musical Theater. At the age of 15, she was hired to be a dancer for the Cleveland based TV show “Upbeat” which aired on channel 5 every Saturday.   She was also a winner on Merv Griffin’s production of NBC’s “Dance Fever.         

She has performed in and choreographed numerous events both locally and nationally including, music legend Chuck Berry’s performance at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame,  “Total Woman of 82” hosted by local celebrities Wilma Smith, news anchor for Fox 8 and Little John Rinaldi of Big Chuck and Little John, and “Illusions by Dennis” to name a few. 

She was an instructor and manager of a Cleveland Based Fred Astaire Dance Studio where she received her instructor certification and competed professionally.  Working for Fred Astaire enabled her to train with a number of dance champions including 7-time U.S. Champion, Forrest Vance, 5-time Latin Champion, Susie Thompson and Theater Arts Champion, Tom Slater who also appeared in the movie “Dance With me” starring Vanessa Williams.  

In 1998, Ms. Bedenk decided to take her dance career in a new direction and became an independent instructor, which allowed her to focus on the dance styles she knows and loves best. It was at that time when she founded what is now known as Cleveland Swing and Salsa.