Kurt Claxton
Kurt’s passion for dance began at a very early age when he began studying ballet. He expanded into ballroom dance as a young man teaching through the Arthur Murray Dance Studios … a international dance program taught in over 20 countries, as well at teaching private group and individual lessons. In the early 1990’s, Kurt joined Skilly Forsman as her partner in Tulsa’s premier cotillion program, teaching dance and etiquette to hundreds of young Tulsans. When Skilly retired in 2009, Kurt carried on the tradition, renaming the program Tulsa Cotillion. Kurt’s extensive dance background, his focus on manners and etiquette, his patience with his students, and his relaxed teaching methods have been monumental in the success of Tulsa Cotillion. Kurt also owns and operates a very successful real estate appraisal company, and is an avid fan of motor-cross and auto racing.
Deborah Viuf
Debbi grew up in a home with parents that were avid ballroom dancers. As a youngster, she never tired of standing on her Dad’s feet while he waltzed her around the living room. During the fitness craze in the 1980’s, Debbi combined her passion for dance with her desire to stay fit, and began teaching “aerobic dancing” through two programs, Aerobics in Motion and Rhythmic Aerobics. This is where she became involved with Skilly Forsman. In 2004, Debbi joined Skilly and Kurt as one of Skilly’s dance instructors, and of course, followed Kurt when he founded Tulsa Cotillion in 2009. She loves all forms of dance…but especially enjoys the Latin dances and the country/western dances. Debbi has co-owned a real-estate development, management and building company since 1978, and she also owns a photography business. Weekends typically find her outdoors, or training one of her three Labrador Retrievers.
Keeley Claxton
Keeley is the youngest of Kurt’s three children and joined Tulsa Cotillion’s team in 2012. She shares her dad’s love of dance and has studied ballet, tap and modern dance. “Miss Keeley” was a student and also a dance instructor at Jenks Dance Academy throughout high school, and continues her modern dance study while at college here in Tulsa. Our young gentlemen always look forward to the opportunity to dance with Keeley!
Kendall Claxton
Kendall, Kurt’s son, joined Tulsa Cotillion in 2015. He has enjoyed learning from and working with his Dad, and has been especially instrumental in helping behind the scenes, monitoring the music and helping to organize the sessions. Kendall is a recent OSU graduate and also works full time at Midwest Detailing.