Karen holds a B.F.A in dance from Stephens College and was the owner of Hot Shoes Dance Studio in Ridgefield for 29 years. In New York, she studied with Lee Theodore at The American Dance Machine and with Charles Kelley and Frank Hatchett at the Broadway Dance Center. She has choreographed over 35 musicals, many with her husband director, Gordon.  Her credits include Brigadoon, Robber Bridegroom, Kiss Me Kate, Carousel and Promise Promises, and for Curtain Call Shakespeare in Love, 1776 (three times), Man of La Mancha, My Fair Lady, Forum, Guys & Dolls, Fiddler, and Newsies.  She has been one of the professional dance partners in 3 DWTS and was the choreographer of the last 3 Trinity Catholic musicals.  She and Gordon are the very proud parents of Christopher, a former member of the CT National Guard and Afghanistan infantry combat veteran.  Currently a sergeant in the US Air Force, he served in a Tactical Air Control Party unit assigned to the US Army Third Infantry Division, with whom he completed a tour of duty in Baghdad in 2021.  When not teaching dance or choreographing she can usually be found with St. Elmo’s Fire, her 28 year old half thoroughbred half quarter horse, who helps keep her sane.