SILVA DANCE SINCE 1963
Winners at such competitions as the Imperial Championships, the largest US competition at that time, the Silvas developed a highly known and regarded reputation in America.
Gwen Silva partnering with Mark Barth continued their success in New York. While running their school they continued training for competitions, studying with some of the “Greats” of the Ballroom Dance & Latin Dance world. Training with Peter Eggleton, Eric Hancox, Bill & Bobbie Irvine, Benny Tolmeyer, Sonny Binick, Dennis Udel, Richard & Janet Gleave, Monica Neeham, Michael & Vick Bar, Robert Richey, Paul Beaton, Michael Stylianos and other world and British Champions, Mark & Gwen continued their competitive successes.
Mark & Gwen became The Southeastern Ballroom Champions. The Baltimore Maryland Champions, The Imperial Rising Star Champions, as well as overseas finalists in the City of Bradford Uk Championships, finalists in the Ohio Star Ball rising Star, Finalist USBC rising star Championships, Finalist Heritage Classic, as well as numerous other events throughout the UK and the US.
As their successes in the US continued, they have performed and given shows at various dance competitions, stage productions and special events throughout the U.S. They have been on national T.V. Channels 7 & 12 in the New York area and also taught for the Cable network on the Latin Channel. They have taught at many venues in the U.S. and England, and have taught and assisted in numerous Professional Congresses for Professionals in the U.S.
Mark and Gwen being Licentiates & Fellows of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, as well as other organizations in the US prepare their students for examinations from amateur up through professional levels as well as train them for Ballroom & Latin Dance Competitions. Mark & Gwen split their time between teaching their students, giving lectures, organizing shows, judging and also competing in Pro/Am competitions throughout the U.S. Mostly they operate the Silva Dance Academy giving their years of experience to their students. Today their professional services are even more important, as they are helping to guide and develop the dancers of tomorrow.