MEET OUR TEAM
Our team of passionate people is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inspiring environment for all our dancers. Each member brings a unique background and style, united by a shared love for music, dance and excitement to grow our collective dance community. Get to know the talented individuals who will guide you on your dance journey and support you every step of the way!
TESS MINNICK GUNDERSON
Studio Owner, Elite Instructor, Choreographer,
Musician & Digital Artist
Teaches: Group classes and private lessons in Ballroom, Salsa, Bachata, Cha Cha, Blues, West Coast Swing, East Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, Balboa, Tango Fusion, Night Club Two Step, Country dances, wedding dances, Fusion.
Tess is an experienced dancer with 20 years of professional instruction to her name. Her competitive titles are extensive and eclectic. She is an All-Star level West Coast Swing dancer, an American Smooth Ballroom dance champion, Division 1 and Masters qualified Country dancer.
Above all, Tess loves social dancing in multiple styles such as Lindy Hop, Blues, Salsa, Bachata, West Coast Swing and more!
See Tess's full bio, dance videos and artwork here.
ROB GUNDERSON
Co-Owner, Operations, Musician
Rob is behind the scenes and is a crucial part of The Annex running smoothly each and every day.
He is responsible for the installation and maintenance of the studio sound system, lighting equipment and setting up for events. He sometimes attends group classes and can be seen most every weekend playing music around the Rogue Valley with Tess as their musical duo. The Giantess.
They love to perform their all original Dream Rock Blues and Jazz music at venues where people come out to dance.
Rob also teaches music lessons out of their recording studio in Medford. He is passionate about helping The Annex be a beautiful and smooth running space for local dancers.
For guitar, bass and songwriting lessons:
Contact Rob at Robdgunderson@gmail.com
INSTRUCTOR TIERS
Instructor tiers are based on dance and teaching experience, certifications, and competitive titles.
Premier Instructors teach beginning and some intermediate-level students in their
specialized styles.
Master Instructors typically have 5+ years of dance experience. They teach all levels of students, including advanced levels in all genres they specialize in.
Elite Instructors typically have 10+ years of experience. In addition to that, they are top experts in their genres, have won competitive dance awards and titles, or completed intensive certification programs.
ANNA WHEELER
Instructor: Premier Tier
Teaches: West Coast Swing
Hi, I’m Anna. My dance journey started during my undergraduate studies when a friend convinced me to take a Cuban Salsa PE class.
I vividly remember telling them I couldn’t dance, but I decided to try anyway and I have never looked back. Since then I have also done country swing, line dancing, and my passion: West Coast Swing. I love spreading the joy of dancing and I know that anyone is capable of learning to dance if they set their mind to it.
BELLA GRUBB
Instructor: Premier Tier
Teaches: Fusion Swing, Salsa, Bachata, Country Two Step, Solo movement, Line dancing
Bella more or less danced out of the womb. She spent her early years moving and grooving to any old beat. A ballet class here, hip-hop class there, dance has always been a major source of joy and expression in her life. Up until recently, she never considered pursuing dance as a career, but since attending The Annex studio, a new path has been illuminated. No dance style is beyond her interest and Fusion is the future! In addition to her passion for dance, Bella is also a foodie, a farm enthusiast and birth doula.
EHLAN STIRITZ
Instructor: Premier Tier
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Teaches: West Coast Swing
Ehlan Stiritz is a West Coast Swing dancer who began his partner dance journey here in the Rogue Valley in 2023. Soon after, Ehlan began competing and traveling to West Coast Swing conventions. He has a love of social dancing, choreography and exploring many dance styles. Ehlan loves helping beginner students to become the dancers they desire to be. He looks forward to meeting you in the studio and embarking on the wonderful journey of dance together.
LAUREN BELLENBAUM
Instructor: Master Tier
Teaches: West Coast Swing
Lauren has been dancing and competing in West Coast Swing for over 9 years and currently competes in the Advanced division.
She loves teaching all levels, from beginners to more experienced dancers, through both group classes and private lessons.
Lauren and her husband, Shawn, met through West Coast Swing and dancing together has become one of their greatest joys.
They’ve had the opportunity to travel across the country, competing and connecting with the dance community along the way.
MICHELLE SHERMAN
Instructor: Premier Tier
Teaches: Salsa, Bachata
Michelle started her latin dance journey in 2010 when she quickly became addicted to cuban salsa and became a member of the Rumbanana dance team. She started focusing on linear salsa and bachata in 2020 after moving to Southern Oregon. Michelle has traveled to 43 countries and has danced in most of them, adapting the diverse styles along the way! She is excited to share her love of latin dancing with this community!
AIMEE NORVELL
Social Media Manager
Hi, I’m Aimee. I’m behind the scenes helping bring The Annex to life through social media and community connection. While I may not be teaching classes, I’m deeply passionate about building community, telling the story of this space, and helping more people find their way onto the dance floor. There’s nothing better than seeing someone walk in for the first time and feel like they belong. Outside of the studio, I’m a mom to a busy 6-year-old and a performing singer-songwriter. Life is full and fueled by music!