Gloria - i would say it is essential that you have an instructor for an advanced figure like this. Indeed an instructor is essential if you want to be a really good dancer. the problem with just 'following' the steps from a DVD is that you can't see what you look like, and you may develop bad habits.
My suggestion for your situation - insist that you video these practices so that you can view how you are both looking as you execute your steps. But be warned - this can be a very humbling experience for any dancer
