CHRISTIAN BARENS is an award winning competitor, performer and choreographer hailing from Germany. Having garnered many titles in the youth and adult amateur categories in his native country as well as throughout Europe, he decided to expand his knowledge and training by coming to the dance capital of the world, New York City. In 2005, he won the U.S. National Rising Star Latin Professional Championship, as well as the 2005 Mexican Open Professional Latin Championship, and was the winner of the 2006 Florida Superstars Open Professional Latin Championship. Because of his achievements, Christian had the honor to represent the U.S. in major dance competitions worldwide.

Christian's reputation extends beyond the competitive dance floor. He has joined the cast of the national tour of Dancing With the Stars, and he also recently appeared in the Off-Broadway show The Tango Interlude. His choreographic credits include the Off-Broadway show Burma and the Café Latino shows, which he also produced. Recently, Christian danced on "Sabado Gigante" and has done two tours with the hit show "Dancing With the Stars." Most recently, he was a featured dancer on the prestigious 2008 Academy Awards Show.

In addition to his training in Jazz, Latin and Show Dance, Christian studied fashion design at the renowned Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, and is well known for his innovative clothing designs. Many competitors have worn his creations at prestigious events around the world.

Christian has been with Stepping Out Studios for 10 years, where students are treated to his broad range of talents and knowledge. Stepping Out Studios is extremely proud to have him on staff.