Marie Rants has been dancing professionally since 1996. She holds a BA in Dance from Old Dominion University and studied MA in Communication at Johns Hopkins University. In addition, she is part of the Adjunct Dance Faculty at ODU.
Marie began dancing Ballroom at a very young age. By age 15, having performed for numerous events, she was asked to choreograph a Swing medley for honored guest Mayor Meyera Obendorf. This began her serious career to professional dancing. In college, she choreographed and 
staged several Modern dance productions for University Dance Theatre, as well as performed in astounding pieces, such as Still Waters, by Todd Rosenlieb. Other professional works include choreographing the opening number for international pop artist Martin Niviera in 1998, USA Dance New Year’s Eve Extravaganza, 2003-2014, and performances and choreography for Hampton Roads’ Dancing With Our Stars, 2009- 2022.
Marie believes that by having classical training in Ballet and Modern dance, she has been able to become not only a better Ballroom dancer, but a more proficient teacher. She has been coached by top champions- Bill Sparks, Tony Meredith (So You Think You Can Dance), Forrest Vance, Irina Sarukhanyan, Rosendo Fumero, and Kathryn Shaefer. Marie specializes in the American Rhythm & Smooth Ballroom disciplines.