Sam Bell
Ballet, Pointe
Samantha Bell is a versatile dancer, choreographer, and educator based in Orange County, California. Her dance journey began with full scholarship training at the Anaheim Ballet under Lawrence and Sarma Rosenberg, complemented by private coaching from Evelyn Cisneros, Alexander Greschenko, and Jillana. Joining the Anaheim Ballet company in 2008, she achieved third place at the Youth America Grand Prix and advanced to the New York City finals.
Samantha spent five years as a parade performer at Disneyland before joining State Street Ballet (SSB) in Santa Barbara, where she danced for five seasons. At SSB, she performed soloist roles, toured extensively—including a two-month tour of China—and created a highly acclaimed piece, 'Pistolero,' for their annual dancer-choreographed program, “Evenings.” This marked a milestone as “the first time a current SSB dancer has presented their work alongside professionals” (SB Independent).
In 2017, Samantha joined the Oakland Ballet, performing principal and soloist roles for five seasons. Her diverse experience extends to ARC Dance Seattle, Opera Santa Barbara, Menlowe Ballet, and Western Ballet, as well as television, film, and musicals. She has originated roles by Josie Walsh, Peter Pucci, and Paul Destrooper, and performed works by notable choreographers such as George Balanchine, Alex Ketley, Bill Soleau, Kabby Mitchell III, and Amy Seiwart.
In 2021, Samantha wrote, choreographed, and co-directed her first commissioned dance film, In Plain Sight, for Oakland Ballet. This work was later adapted into a stage production for OBC’s female choreographers' showcase. Samantha's choreography spans short concept works, narrative ballets, and dance films, reflecting her passion for telling stories about women and hidden figures from history through dance. With a BA in History from UCSB, she is also dedicated to education. She led Oakland Ballet’s “You Can Dance” outreach program and has taught at various institutions, including the Oakland Ballet Academy, Santa Barbara Dance Arts, and Dance Arts OC.
Upon returning to Orange County, Samantha performed in Musical Theatre West’s production of "An American in Paris," starred in SoCal Ballet Scene’s dance film Tango del Fuego, and continues to dance with ARC Dance in Seattle, as well as freelancing. She recently celebrated her first child’s arrival and performed with the Tiger Tail dancers for Knott’s Scary Farm’s 50th anniversary.
As a lifelong dancer and athlete, Samantha emphasizes the importance of cross-training and injury prevention. She is a certified Zumba® Instructor, with additional certifications in Zumba® Kids, Kids Jr., Zumba® Gold, and barre fitness. During the pandemic, she founded Samantha Bell Studio, a virtual space offering live fitness classes. With over 15 years of teaching experience, she is passionate about helping people of all ages, including young dancers, achieve their goals and reach their full potential. She is excited to join Momentum Dance and nurture emerging talent!