{"id":13322,"date":"2025-03-20T17:00:37","date_gmt":"2025-03-20T17:00:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/upstagefootwear.com\/?page_id=13322"},"modified":"2026-04-14T20:05:25","modified_gmt":"2026-04-14T20:05:25","slug":"13322-2","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/upstagefootwear.com\/?page_id=13322","title":{"rendered":""},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Aaron<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A native of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Aaron started pursuing his love for performing by joining a traveling show choir from 2007-2008, where he performed at the Royal Academy of the Arts in London, England. From there, he joined the Fred Astaire Dance Studios family working at the Crestview, FL Studio for three years before joining the Fort Walton Beach Studio in 2013, where he worked for ten years. Since then, Aaron has become the top male teacher in the state of Florida, and recognized as one of the top 20 male teachers in the nation with Fred Astaire. Aaron is now the proud owner of the Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Clearwater, Florida since 2024. His areas of expertise expand across the ballroom world styles of dance along with coaching and choreography.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of his Achievements include: Featured performer in movie \u201cDancin it\u2019s on!\u201d, Heritage Classic Rising Star and Open Smooth Finalist, <\/em>Fred Astaire National Rising Star Smooth Finalist, 3x US Theater Arts Finalist<\/em>, 2x Fred Astaire National Showdance Vice Champ, Fred Astaire Florida Smooth and Rhythm Champ<\/em>, 3x World Masters Open Smooth Finalist, <\/em>Ultimate Dancesport Championships Open Smooth Champion.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Adrian<\/strong> <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I started my dance journey as a hip hop break dancer. What inspired me to start were movies like the Step Up series and Stomp the Yard. After dancing a decade of that style, I happened upon ballroom dancing as an in-between jobs opportunity and fell in love with it. I know have been proudly an Arthur Murray professional for 7 years and counting. My main passion has been developing my own craft and starting people on their own dance journey as I did many years ago. I aspire to be an inspiration to others as many have been to me before.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Alexey <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alexey and his partner Kseniia have been dancing together for over twelve years. Multiple-time champions, medalists, and finalists of prestigious competitions across Europe and the United States, they dance International Ballroom, American Smooth, and Showdance. Together they are the proud owners of Fred Astaire Dance Studio Pinecrest in South Florida.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of their achievements include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finalists of the Russian Showdance Championship-WDC USA National 10 Dance and Ballroom Show Dance finalist-Hawaii Star Ball Professional Rising Star Smooth, Latin, and Ballroom Champion-Twin Cities Open Professional Rising Star American Smooth Champion-Big Easy Gala Open Professional Ballroom, Latin, Cabaret Champions-Florida State Rising Star Professional Ballroom and Open Professional 10 dance Champion-Houston Dance Classic Professional Open Show Dance and Professional Open Latin Vice Champion-Numerous titles within the Fred Astaire Florida Regional Competitions-Colorado Star Ball Professional Rising Stars Winner and Vice Champion in Rising Stars Smooth-Washington Open Open Professional Cabaret Champion and Vice Champion in Open Professional Smooth<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Allie<\/strong> <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Allie is a multi medaled champion in the ballroom world. She also is a studio co-owner in Miami Beach, Flordia. A couple of her achievements with her partner Dima are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reigning Fred Astaire National Vice Champions in American Smooth, Fred Astaire National Open Smooth Vice Champions 2024, <\/em>Manhattan Dancesport Championships Rising Stars Smooth Champions 2024, Heritage Classic Rising Star Smooth Champions 2024<\/em>, Ohio Star Ball Rising Star Smooth Champions 2023, Fred Astaire World and National Rising Star Smooth Champions 2023<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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August<\/strong> <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

August, a seasoned dance instructor with over a decade of experience at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, knows the power of dance to transform lives. As a National Finalist and regional champion in the Smooth division, he has experienced firsthand how dance can build confidence, ignite passion, and foster connection. He shares this transformative journey with his wife, who is also his dance partner. Together, they create magic on the dance floor and inspire others with their love for dance. When he’s not guiding students on their own dance journeys, August can be found competing with his wife, showcasing the elegance and artistry that have become his hallmark. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Braxton<\/strong> <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dance helped me become the person that I am today. I started dancing at the age of 12 doing hip-hop and jazz. When 7th grade came around I also fell in love with musical theatre and I did multiple shows from CATS to Phantom of Opera, and many more! The Fred Astaire family of Youngstown found me right out of high school and trained with myself for 2 years. Now the goals and dreams are moving and changing, I want a make a name for myself in the dance business and be well known for my choreography and my own style of dance. Finding ways to show that through my students is an amazing experience for everyone involved!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Chris <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chris\u2019 love for ballroom dancing began in college while attending OSU. As a member of a performance team, he honed his skills in a wide variety of dances. His performance passion led him into the competitive collegiate circuit in both American and International styles. Alongside his Ballroom pursuits, Chris discovered country dancing and has competed in partner styles as well as line dancing in Oregon, California, and Arizona.  Following his collegiate competitive career, Chris joined the traveling Utah Ballroom Dance Company, touring the States performing and putting on shows throughout his tenure. With over 13 years of experience, Chris is now based out of Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Lake Oswego, Oregon.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Dibella <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A child of Motown, Dibella (or Di, as she\u2019s known in the studio) grew up dancing street styles and hip-hop before venturing into partner dancing during her previous life in academia for her PhD program in linguistics. During her dance career, she’s competed as a b-girl, but also been a principal dancer in local productions of The Firebird and Coppelia. Her love for dance and teaching drew her to the ballroom world, where she currently competes professionally in American Rhythm. In her copious spare time, she loves to create ballroom makeup looks, and designs dresses for herself and others. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Dima <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dima has taken on American Smooth by storm with numerous titles under his belt. He co-owns the Fred Astaire Miami Beach studio. A few of his titles include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reigning Fred Astaire National Vice Champions in American Smooth, Fred Astaire National Open Smooth Vice Champions 2024, <\/em>Manhattan Dancesport Championships Rising Stars Smooth Champions 2024, Heritage Classic Rising Star Smooth Champions 2024<\/em>, Ohio Star Ball Rising Star Smooth Champions 2023, Fred Astaire World and National Rising Star Smooth Champions 2023<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Ernesto <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ernesto Olivas is the Studio Manager and a ballroom dance instructor at Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Brookfield, WI. Originally from Texas, he began dancing at a young age and went on to earn a Bachelor\u2019s degree in Dance Education with a focus on Ballroom from New Mexico State University. With a strong background in both dance and instruction, Ernesto brings energy, leadership, and a passion for teaching to the studio. He\u2019s committed to helping students of all levels build confidence, technique, and a love for dance.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Isabella <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hi, I\u2019m Isabella. I\u2019m 14 years old. I started gymnastics shortly after I turned one. I started ballroom dance when I was 5 years old and became part of the Fred Astaire team. I loved ballroom dancing immediately. In 2020 I decided to leave gymnastics and try cabaret style ballroom. I started training with Mr. Zachary Pohl. I quickly fell in love with the style. Before I knew it I had won my first trophy! The following year things really started to take off. My number \u201cDown the Rabbit Hole\u201d was very well liked. I was even asked to perform it on the final night of Ohio Star Ball! Having Mr. Zach and Ms. Ariel Freilich as my mentors, I have done very well in cabaret. I have even gotten to dance in a couple pro shows thanks to the confidence of Mr. Tony Dovolani. I do train in other ballroom styles as well and my favorite is Standard. I love the quickstep! I also cross train in aerial silks. I am so proud to be a part of the Upstage family. They truly are the kindest people and they are so supportive! (Both mentally and for my feet! lol)<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Jon<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jon started dancing at seven years old in the styles of East Coast Swing and Lindy Hop. Doing so for roughly two years, he gained a love and passion for dancing that never died. After almost ten years of not dancing, he found his way back after going to college for a year due to his presence of teaching those around him how to dance while in charge of a ballroom dancing club. Reigniting the fire and understanding what he wanted to do, he has been teaching and dancing ballroom, latin, smooth, and rhythm professionally where he made his home with Fred Astaire Dance Studios-Westlake and ever since had made it his goal to share with others the joy and magnificence that is ballroom dancing while living his dream and furthering his goals while striving for elegant excellence!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Jose<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Originally born in Mexico, but having grown up in East TN, has enabled Jose to grow up bilingual in English and Spanish. He grew up with a desire to learn music. While learning to play instruments, he was able to pick up an ear for musicality. Not only was he a part of his high school’s mens’ choir, but he also took many music classes in college while ultimately majoring in Education and a minor in Spanish. Now Jose merges his knowledge of Education with teaching Ballroom Dance Lessons. \u201cWe as teachers have to remember to always teach the unknown to our students using the known.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2018, Jose joined Fred Astaire Dance Studios \u2013 Fort Walton Beach. Working, growing, and learning with the company has led Jose to grow in his career to becoming a proud manager of Fred Astaire Dance Studios \u2013 Clearwater, FL. He has become a Studio Dance Director and Regional Mixed Novice Champion in his time with Fred Astaire so far. His dance specialities include Wedding Choreographies, the American styles of Smooth and Rhythm, along with Country Western.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Kaitlyn <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kaitlyn Elliott began her dance career at 14. When she was a little girl, she always wanted to dance. Her aunt took her to her first Rumba class at DeSarge Danceworld. Beginning as a student, she quickly caught the attention of her instructors. Under the tutelage of Edward Sargent, she began training as an instructor shortly after her first class. In 2019, she completed her training as a dance instructor and began teaching. She has been a full time dance instructor ever since. She continues to maintain her dance education from renowned coaches such as Matt Rivers, Martin Cawston, Kimberly Mitchell, and Ray Rivers. Alongside her dance partner Tyler Dean, she now competes across America in the American Smooth Division.   <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Katie<\/strong> <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Katie Fairman is a professional dancer and instructor based in Chicago, IL. She currently teaches ballroom dance lessons at Arthur Murray Lincolnshire, competes professionally in American Smooth, and is a soloist with Ardent Dance Company. Katie attended Western Michigan University where she earned her BFA in Dance (21\u2019) and minors in Marketing and Communications. From there, she moved back to Chicago where she began her ballroom dance career with Arthur Murray. Over the past three years. Katie has placed as an Arthur Murray Rising Star Smooth Finalist with her partner Mitchell, won the Arthur Murray Future Champions Smooth division at Superama in Las Vegas, been in the top 20% of instructors in her geographic area, and has competed with her students on an international scale. Outside of her ballroom dancing, Katie is a soloist with Ardent Dance Company, a contemporary ballet group. She has been in the company for six shows, with featured roles as Cosette in \u201cLes Miserables\u201d and as Catherine Howard in \u201cThe Six of Eight\u201d. Katie is excited and honored to be a part of the Upstage Footwear professional team!  <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Kristyn<\/strong> <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hi there! I\u2019m Kristyn, co-owner of Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Ridgefield, CT. I started dance at the age of 2, with a background in ballet, pointe, and jazz, and was first introduced to ballroom at university. I\u2019m fueled by my passion for dance and the ability to express myself, and tell a story through the motion and fluidity of the body. I\u2019m constantly looking for ways to build on a my classical dance foundation and continue my development as a ballroom dancer in the professional circuit. I enjoy enriching peoples lives through dance, and find the greatest reward in witnessing the positive impact dance has on anyone who comes through the door. Seeing the lasting effect it has on relationships, the body, and mind is what makes my job the most gratifying. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Krys<\/strong> <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hello! I am Krys, co-owner of Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Ridgefield, CT. I started dancing as an amateur in 2008, turned professional in 2015, and finally transitioned to ownership in the holiday of 2019. I hold professional titles as a finalist or champion in various Fred Astaire and Independent events in Rising Star and Open Professional categories. Amateur dancers competing pro-am with me having been champions and finalists across all levels of ballroom dancing, in all styles, some of which have moved on to start their own professional dance careers. Joining the Upstage family has been a tremendous boom to my career and studio. Our entire staff exclusively wears Upstage shoes for 40+ hours of happy feet doing happy dancing. Their service and products have been greatly satisfying to all of our dance clients, and we\u2019re so grateful for their help in keeping our dancers content. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Kseniia<\/strong> <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kseniia and her partner Alexey have been dancing together for over twelve years. Multiple-time champions, medalists, and finalists of prestigious competitions across Europe and the United States, they dance International Ballroom, American Smooth, and Showdance. Together they are the proud owners of Fred Astaire Dance Studio Pinecrest in South Florida.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of their achievements include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finalists of the Russian Showdance Championship-WDC USA National 10 Dance and Ballroom Show Dance finalist-Hawaii Star Ball Professional Rising Star Smooth, Latin, and Ballroom Champion-Twin Cities Open Professional Rising Star American Smooth Champion-Big Easy Gala Open Professional Ballroom, Latin, Cabaret Champions-Florida State Rising Star Professional Ballroom and Open Professional 10 dance Champion-Houston Dance Classic Professional Open Show Dance and Professional Open Latin Vice Champion-Numerous titles within the Fred Astaire Florida Regional Competitions-Colorado Star Ball Professional Rising Stars Winner and Vice Champion in Rising Stars Smooth-Washington Open Open Professional Cabaret Champion and Vice Champion in Open Professional Smooth<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Laura C <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I am an instructor at the beautiful Arthur Murray in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin. I have traveled around the world with Upstage shoes because I trust the comfort and quality of the shoes to keep me dancing all day long!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Laura<\/strong><\/em> H<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Originally from Hungary, I moved to the U.S. with my fianc\u00e9 to share our love of dance. After teaching at several Fred Astaire studios, we opened our own in McKinney, creating a welcoming, inspiring community. I\u2019ve earned multiple top female instructor awards, and my students have achieved regional and national success. Teaching and managing the studio is my passion\u2014I love helping students grow in confidence and artistry. Fun Fact: I love coffee so much that I dream of one day opening a tiny coffee shop inside the studio!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Lily<\/strong> <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lily\u2019s love for dance began at a young age, and she never looked back! She spent nine years competing with a pre-professional dance team, earning medals as both a group dancer and a solo artist. One of her proudest accomplishments was placing in the top ten soloists at Showstopper, a premier national dance competition. After aging out of her dance team, Lily set out to explore new styles of movement, which eventually led her to the enchanting world of ballroom dancing. As a dedicated student of ballroom, Lily’s passion and talent were recognized, leading her to join the Fred Astaire family as an instructor. She now shares her extensive dance knowledge and expertise in kinesiology with her students, helping them shine on and off the dance floor. When Lily isn\u2019t dancing the night away, you\u2019ll find her diving into books, perfecting her sewing stitches, exploring her creativity through painting, or whipping up something delicious in the kitchen.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Makayla<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Makayla is a dedicated professional ballroom dancer with 17 years of experience in dance. Her background spans ballet, tap, jazz, and contemporary, providing her with a strong technical foundation and versatility in movement. At 20 years old, she trains and competes at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, where she continues to refine her craft and share her passion for dance. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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M\u00e1t\u00e9<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

M\u00e1t\u00e9 has been dancing for 24 years, growing up in a family of dance teachers \u2014 with both of his parents in the profession, it was only natural for him to follow in their footsteps. He is passionate about teaching because it allows him to meet new people and help them grow, whether it\u2019s in their physical skills or their mental well-being. Throughout his career, M\u00e1t\u00e9 has been a multiple-time Texas Regional, United States National, and Hungarian champion, and even led the European rankings. He has also performed on cruise ships and in theaters, bringing his love of dance to audiences around the world. Fun Fact: Even though M\u00e1t\u00e9 practically grew up in a ballroom, his dream job as a kid was to become a superhero \u2014 helping people just came naturally to him.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Matt<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

With over a decade of experience in the world of dance, Matthew Payne specializes in Cabaret and American Smooth and Rhythm styles, though he embraces all forms of dance with passion and curiosity. Prior to his career in dance, Matthew served in the Army for ten years, completing three deployments and earning the rank of Staff Sergeant. After being medically retired from the military, he found a renewed sense of purpose and healing through dance\u2014a passion he now shares with others. Matthew spent six years immersed in collegiate-level dance programs and has spent the last five years teaching at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, refining his skills and sharing his love for movement with students of all ages and levels. He holds certifications in American Bronze Rhythm and Smooth, as well as Standard and Latin, and is committed to continually learning and growing in this art form. Whether it’s private lessons, group classes, or preparing choreography for special events, Matthew aims to make every session an inspiring and enjoyable experience. His teaching philosophy reflects his personal journey: he believes dance can be transformative, offering joy, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Through show dances, Matthew loves to tell stories, embody characters, and create memorable moments that resonate with audiences and judges alike. As he prepares to open and run his own studio in the near future, he remains dedicated to making dance accessible and life-changing for everyone. My motto? “Dance isn\u2019t just a skill\u2014it\u2019s a way of life.” <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Maya<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maya Rao is a competitive ballroom dancer with over 13 years of competitive experience. Bringing her Latin and Indian heritage to her performances, she blends a variety of styles, including ballroom, cabaret, Bollywood, and Latin social dances. Maya teaches at Magenta Dance Place sharing her passion for dance with students of all ages. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Megan<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Megan teaches out of the newly opened Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Beaverton, Oregon. She fell in love with ballroom dancing as a student with her husband before continuing her career as an instructor. She has been competing with her partner, Chris, since 2022 and loves the smooth styles. Megan is known for making her students feel at ease and relaxed, her ability to connect with everyone she dances with, and her never ending energy that she brings 24\/7. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Melinda<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Melinda Papp has been immersed in the world of dance since she was just a child, growing up in a family where both her mother and brother danced. She always dreamed of becoming a teacher to share the beauty of dance with others and help them discover this incredible art form. A regional and national champion, Melinda has also showcased her talent on cruise ships and in theater productions. For the past 3.5 years, she\u2019s been a vibrant part of the Fred Astaire Dance Studios family in Fort Worth. Fun fact: Melinda\u2019s first stage was her family\u2019s living room, where she loved putting on shows for anyone who would watch!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Mitchell<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I have been an instructor for over 3 years at Arthur Murray, and truly love inspiring others and teaching. I\u2019ve competed professionally with my dance partner Katie Fairman for the past year in American Smooth, placing as high as 4th within our company. In my free time, my favorite dance to go out socially with is West Coast Swing, and I also love to connect with the outdoors when not on the dance floor. Excited and grateful to be a part of the Upstage team! <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Natalie<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Natalie is the owner of Fred Astaire Dance Studios Chicago Lakeview, as well as a professional dancer and instructor. She brings an extensive background in rhythmic gymnastics, sport aerobics, and a wide range of dance styles, including modern, contemporary, hip hop, and ballroom. She started her dance journey back in Ukraine, winning numerous competitions and championships, as well as teaching kids. As both an active professional ballroom dance competitor and a dedicated instructor, she strives to inspire and uplift her students physically, emotionally, mentally and socially through the power of dance.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Nikolay<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nikolay is a highly accomplished dancer from the comp floor to role model and educator in the ballroom dance world. His accomplishments include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

FADS Wisconsin Regional Dance Director-FADS National Coach and Choreographer<\/em>-Co Owner of FADS Milwaukee Downtown-19 years being part of the FADS Family<\/em>-FADS Open American Smooth Champion-United States and Ohio Star Ball Rising Star American Rhythm Champion and American Smooth Finalist<\/em>-United States and Ohio Star Ball 9 Dance Vice Champion-FADS American Rhythm and American Smooth Rising Star Champion<\/em>-FADS Open American Rhythm Vice Champion-Top Teacher FADS Regionally and FADS Nationally<\/em>-Top Teacher USDC-Top Teacher Ohio Star Ball<\/em>-Dancers’ Cup Tour All Star Top Teacher-FADS World Cup Series Top Teacher<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Norge<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Norge Torres is a dynamic and multifaceted artist with over a decade of experience mastering and performing a wide range of dance styles. Renowned for his ability to fuse technical precision with emotional depth, Norge captivates audiences and inspires students alike. His talent and dedication have earned him distinguished awards at regional, national, and international dance competitions.
A passionate choreographer and instructor, Norge is committed to nurturing creativity and promoting cultural appreciation through the art of dance. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Dance from the National School of Dance in Havana, Cuba\u2014widely recognized as the country\u2019s most prestigious dance academy.
Norge\u2019s professional credentials include the Fred Astaire Intermediate Bronze Ballroom Style Certificate, Cuba\u2019s 1st Level National Dancer Certification, and certifications as both Artistic Director and Artistic Producer. His expertise spans performance, instruction, and creative direction.
Beyond the stage, Norge brings his artistry to the world of fashion and media, with seven years of experience as a runway model and appearances in music videos that showcase his expressive presence and versatility.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Rebecca<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rebecca is a dynamic professional ballroom dancer, celebrated for her unique fusion of classical technique and theatrical artistry. Beginning her journey in the world of dance with the four core styles of Ballroom – Smooth, Ballroom, Latin, and Rhythm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As her passion for movement and expression grew, so did her desire to push boundaries and explore new realms of performance. Rebecca eventually found her true calling in Cabaret and Theater Arts, where storytelling, costume, and character come together to create electrifying performances that captivate and inspire audiences. This shift allowed Rebecca to infuse the precision of ballroom with the creativity and drama of the stage, leading to an unmistakable style that is both technically refined and emotionally compelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Today, Rebecca is known not just for her mastery of dance, but for her ability to turn each performance into a powerful narrative, bringing the beauty of ballroom into the world of live theater and cabaret with unmatched originality and flair. Whether choreographing intricate routines, teaching the next generation of dancers, or performing on the stage, Rebecca continues to redefine what it means to be a modern ballroom dancer.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Remi<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Originally from the Netherlands, R\u00e9mi Janssen brings a lifetime of passion and dedication to Ballroom and Latin dance. While his greatest joy is being a father to his son Raffael, his love for dance has taken him around the globe\u2014as a competitor, instructor, and international adjudicator. R\u00e9mi began dancing at thirteen and quickly rose through the Dutch dance scene, performing and competing internationally. His charisma and artistry earned him appearances on major television productions such as Dancing with the Stars and Strictly Come Dancing Netherlands, where he partnered with Olympic hockey star Naomi van As. From 2008 to 2020, R\u00e9mi co-owned a thriving dance studio in the Netherlands, growing it to nearly 400 members\u2014from social dancers to championship-level competitors. He is a master of 20+ partner dance styles, including International Standard & Latin, American Smooth & Rhythm, Swing, Country, Disco, Line Dance, and other social dances. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

During his competitive career, R\u00e9mi proudly represented the Netherlands at 14 official international championships, including European Championships and World Cups. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Competitive Achievements Amateur Career <\/em>\u2022 Dutch Vice-Champion Youth Latin (NADB) \u2022 Multiple Dutch Vice-Champion, Championship Class Latin (NADB) \u2022 Multiple Dutch Ranking Champion, Championship Class Latin (NADB) \u2022 Vice-Champion Benelux, Championship Class Latin \u2022 Semi-Finalist, Dutch Open Assen RS Latin \u2022 Top 60, Blackpool \/ UK Open \/ International Championships \u2022 Performed for Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands \u2022 Dancemasters \u201cArtist of the Year\u201d Award, presented by Fred Bijster Professional Career \u2022 Undefeated Dutch Champion Pro Latin (WDC) \u2022 Multiple Dutch Ranking Champion Pro Latin (WDC) \u2022 Semi-Finalist, German Open Pro Latin (WDC) \u2022 Quarter-Finalist, Blackpool Dance Festival & UK Open Pro Latin RS \u2022 Ranked #38 in the World (WDC Pro Latin) \u2022 U.S. Titles with Fred Astaire-Texas for Closed Latin, Rhythm, Smooth, Pre-Champ, and Nightclub.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TV & Media <\/em>\u2022 Dancing with the Stars Netherlands \u2013 Showcased with Patricia Paay and Sylvana Simons \u2022 Strictly Come Dancing Netherlands \u2013 Professional partner for Naomi van As<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Organizer & Entrepreneur<\/em> \u2022 Co-owner, Dansstudio Waalwijk (2008\u20132020) \u2022 Founder, WDC Dutch Amateur League Oosterhout \u2013 National competition with live music \u2022 Co-founder, YouTube Channel: Groepsdansen W&L \u2022 Founder, \u201cWollukse Cha Cha Bokaal\u201d \u2013 Primary school dance project teaching 600+ children \u2022 Creator, Theater show DSW on Stage<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>
\n

Sabrina<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sabrina is honored to represent Upstage Footwear. A multi-time Fred Astaire Pro-Am World, National, and Regional Champion in Rhythm, Smooth, Nine-Dance, and Show Dance, she proudly represents Fred Astaire Illinois as a top-level competitor. Beyond the competition floor, Sabrina teaches children at Fred Astaire Lakeview and holds a degree in acting. She is also the founder of the Sabrina Schoenberg R.E.S. Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with rare neurological disorders. As an advocate for those with silent disabilities, Sabrina uses her growing platform to inspire others and promote inclusion and accessibility in the arts. She is deeply grateful to dance in Upstage Footwear and credits her family and her coach and mentor, Andre Santore. She also extends heartfelt thanks to the DeSoto family and Rae Josephs for their unwavering belief in her and her dreams.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>
\n

Sebastian<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sebastian is a new teacher and professional competitor within Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Having taken an interest in the arts from a young age, he began with Choir and Musical Theater as a child, and slowly transitioned to stage dancing by high school. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

After a few serendipitous interactions, Sebastian was introduced to the world of Ballroom dance, and the rest is history. With a love of all things music, he takes pride in looking and dancing his best with both amateurs and other professionals within the industry. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>
\n

Stephanie<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stephanie McCool, a talented certified dance instructor and co-owner of Fred Astaire Orange, embarked on her dance journey later in life, discovering a passion that would transform her path. She joined Fred Astaire Orange in 2013, initially viewing it as a fun hobby. Over the next eight years, she immersed herself in the world of dance, training rigorously with top coaches and her dance partner. Through her hard work and perseverance, she evolved from a novice to a professional dancer, earning the prestigious titles of Regional and National Finalist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stephanie\u2019s unwavering commitment and dedication have not only propelled her own career but have also allowed her to cultivate a stellar team of dancers. She has proudly guided several regional and national champions to victory multiple times. Beyond her impressive accolades, Stephanie radiates a genuine love for dance, singing, and inspiring others.  <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>
\n

Tyler<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tyler Dean began his dance journey in high school, learning the jitterbug as a part of his theater career. Inspired by the show, he pursued a dance education in college. He competed in Collegiate DanceSport as an amateur for four years before becoming a professional. After going pro, he began to train as a dance instructor continuing to pursue his passion and has taught dance full time for over ten years. In 2024, he re-opened a studio. He continues to maintain his dance education from renowned coaches such as Matt Rivers, Martin Cawston, Kimberly Mitchell, and Ray Rivers. Alongside his dance partner Kaitlyn Elliott, he now competes across America in the American Smooth Division. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>
\n

Valentin<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Valentin\u2019s dance journey started at age 7 thanks to his grandma\u2019s \u201cgentle push\u201d\u2014even though he had other plans at the time! What began reluctantly soon turned into a lifelong passion, opening doors to performances, summer camps, and sweet memories. After graduating from a dance-focused high school in Hungary, he moved to Texas, where he rose from beginner teacher to national top performer, manager, and now proud co-owner of Fred Astaire McKinney with his fianc\u00e9e Laura and business partners Alexandra and Mihaly. Today, Valentin\u2019s greatest joy is building a team and helping others dance their dreams into reality. Fun fact: Valentin once thought he\u2019d become a soccer player\u2026 until dance steps kicked in instead!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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