Mary Cornetta

Ballroom Dance Teacher

Mary first fell in love with dance as she watched her grandmother, mother and aunts performing jigs and reels at family parties. She enrolled in the Petri School of Irish Dance in East Northport, NY at the age of 12. By 18, she competed her way from a beginner to a preliminary championship level.

Dancing took a backseat as she pursued a B.A. in Communication at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Upon graduating, she held a variety of careers from personal training to selling real estate. Something special was missing, however, and when she discovered Arthur Murray, she jumped at the opportunity to dance again.

Since joining the Merrick Team, Mary, along with fellow instructor, Anthony Mouras, professionally competed at the 2010 Empire State Dancesport Championship in the Future Champions Rhythm category. They are excited about competing in upcoming events!

Having the ability to pass the knowledge and passion of ballroom dance on to her students has been very fulfilling. Mary’s enthusiasm and dedication is destined to result in a successful dance career with the Arthur Murray family.

Arthur Bartman

Ballroom Dance Teacher

Arthur trained three International Ballroom US Champions in Bronze, Silver, and open categories.  He specializes in the five International Ballroom dances (Waltz, Tango, Slow Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz and Quickstep). Mr. Bartman enjoys all Ballroom and Latin dances but especially loves the Bolero.

Santiago Aguinaga

Manager

Safwat Gerges

Gen. Manager/Franchisee
Certified Master Examiner/Adjudicator

Mr. Safwat Gerges started with the Arthur Murray Dance Studios in Training Class over 25 years ago and two (2) years later, became Manager & Owner of the Arthur Murray Franchised Dance Studio in Great Neck, NY.

Over the years, Mr. Gerges competed in many Arthur Murray Dance Competitions and has been decorated with several Arthur Murray “Top Instructor” & “Top Executive” Awards.

Mr. Gerges is now recognized as a Master Examiner and Adjudicator, certified through the World Professional Dance Teachers Association and accredited with the National Dance Council of America. You may observe Mr. Gerges judging many student and professional competitions and he is also the organizer of several popular show-dance and competitive events each year.

Mr. Gerges is General Manager and Franchisee to five Studios in New York & Long Island as well as two Studios oversees. Currently, Mr. Gerges is the Co-organizer of the Empire State Dance Sport Championships.