If you're looking for other dance blogs to read please check out some of the ones our dance studios have set up.
South Windsor, CT Dance Studio - The blog for our South Windsor Fred Astaire dance studio.
Sugarland, Texas Dance Studio - The blog for our Sugarland Fred Astaire dance studio.
The Woodlands, Texas Dance Studio - The blog for our Woodlands Fred Astaire dance studio.
Columbus Northwest, Ohio Dance Studio - The blog for our Columbus Northwest Fred Astaire dance studio.
Many of our dance studios also have Myspace pages.
Fred Astaire Dance Studio Myspace Page
Fred Astaire South Windsor Myspace Page
Fred Astaire St. Petersburg Myspace Page
Fred Astaire Columbus Northwest Myspace Page
Fred Astaire Canal Winchester Myspace Page
Fred Astaire Memphis Myspace Page
And many more coming soon!
If you're looking for Fred Astaire dance merchandise, do not forget to visit our brand new dance store. We have many different products, including men's dance shoes, women's dance shoes, and Fred Astaire logowear.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Fred Astaire Grand Opening Celebration - January 12th
The Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Missouri City, Texas is holding a grand opening celebration beginning at 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 12, at its new studio. The new studio is located at 6238 State Highway 6 in Missouri City.
The free celebration begins with a cocktail hour at 7, general dancing at 8 and a professional floor show and door prizes at 9.
Join us for an evening of fun and excitement as we celebrate the opening of our new studio. Eat, drink and dance!
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
After School Programs Teach Dancing And Much More!
With shows like Dancing With The Stars, ballroom dancing has never been hotter! And after-school dance programs are sprouting up around the country for school-aged kids. These programs teach children not only how to dance but important "life-lessons" on manners and respect. Click here to read a great article about pre-teens learning how to dance in Milwaukee!
Who Will Be On Dancing With The Stars Season 4?
The rumors are flying about who will be the new celebrities on the next season of the ever-popular Dancing With The Stars. So far Joey Fatone, former member of the boy band N'Sync, and Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, have expressed interest in being on the show. Other speculations include: Melissa Joan Hart, Regis Philbin, Kelly Ripa, Star Jones Reynolds, Leeza Gibbons, Lorenzo Lamas, Joshua Morrow, and Jose Canseco.
Who do you think will be on the show? Or should be on the show? We want to hear from you!
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Kostadin Bidjourov and Carrie Babcock on Television!
Kostadin Bidjourov and Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Shop Online At www.fredastaire.com!
The Fred Astaire Collection of dance shoes for men and women and our practice logo wear can now be ordered from the Fred Astaire Dance Studios corporate website. Go online today and click on the "Dance Store" link to get everything you need to dance!
Fred Astaire Dance Studios - News Flash
Champion Latin Dancers Georgi Kanev and Adriana Bezmenova are having a baby in January. Their baby shower will be held on December 30th at 11:30 AM at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Upper Montclair, NJ.You are their family here in the US so everyone is invited!
Jordan Dill, the 9-year-old daughter of Mike and Dena Dill, studio owners of the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Tallahassee, FL, won the Vault and Balance Beam at the Level 4 Florida State Gymnastics Championships in Daytona Beach, FL December 9-10, 2006. She also placed 3rd in the All-Around Championship. Congratulations Jordan!
Friday, December 08, 2006
NBC's New Dance Competition - "Grease: You're The One That I Want"
NBC is looking for the new Sandy and Danny in the latest dance competition series premiering in January. The show will have Americans choosing the leads for a new Broadway production of the ever-popular musical, GREASE! This intense dance competition will be hosted by "Access Hollywood" anchor Billy Bush and British celebrity Denise Van Outen. Guest appearances will include past stars from the movie and Broadway shows!
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Scholarship Winners At Fred Astaire National Dancesport Competition
Pro/Am Scholarship Divisions
Closed International Standard B
1.Lindsey Willis and Dimitriy Saykovskyy, Tarrytown
2. Sharman Olsen, Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
Open International Standard Amateur Couple A
1. Luis and Lynne Mijangos, NY West
American Smooth Bronze Closed A
1. Amanda Conner and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
2. Jen Crossen and Edgar Walker, Atlanta Downtown
3. Victoria Ritter and Oleg Skrypnyk, Tarrytown
American Smooth Bronze Closed B
1. Vivian Ehrlich and Darius Mosteika, NY West
2. Sharman Olsen and Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
3. Penelope Rostad and Rick Soppa, Milwaukee North
American Smooth Bronze Open A
1. Nicole Powers and Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
2. Amanda Conner and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
3. Jen Crossen and Christjohn Batters, Atlanta Downtown
American Smooth Bronze Open B
1. Susan Miller and Stephen Knight, Milwaukee Central
2. Cecelia Gilchriest and Darius Mosteika, NY West
3. Robert McComsey and Olga Bylim, Tarrytown
Open Smooth Champion Junior
Sarah Haworth and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
American Closed Smooth Rhythm A
1. Patrick Alonsagay and Lindsey Rutherford, Indianapolis
2. Giovanni Fortezza and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
3. Jen Crossen and Edgar Walker, Atlanta Downtown
American Closed Smooth Rhythm B
1. Sharman Olsen and Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
2. Heidi Lewis and Jeff Lewis, Columbus East
3. Janet Bruttell and AJ Molter, Boca Raton
American Open Smooth Rhythm A
1. Danielle Beriault and Ben Castellano, Sarasota
2. Philip Widlanski and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
3. Nicole Powers and Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
American Open Smooth Rhythm B
1. Philip Widlanski and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
2. Melanie Gerber and Stefan Dobrev, St Petersburg
3. Robert McComsey and Olga Bylim, Tarrytown
Closed International Standard B
1.Lindsey Willis and Dimitriy Saykovskyy, Tarrytown
2. Sharman Olsen, Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
Open International Standard Amateur Couple A
1. Luis and Lynne Mijangos, NY West
American Smooth Bronze Closed A
1. Amanda Conner and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
2. Jen Crossen and Edgar Walker, Atlanta Downtown
3. Victoria Ritter and Oleg Skrypnyk, Tarrytown
American Smooth Bronze Closed B
1. Vivian Ehrlich and Darius Mosteika, NY West
2. Sharman Olsen and Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
3. Penelope Rostad and Rick Soppa, Milwaukee North
American Smooth Bronze Open A
1. Nicole Powers and Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
2. Amanda Conner and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
3. Jen Crossen and Christjohn Batters, Atlanta Downtown
American Smooth Bronze Open B
1. Susan Miller and Stephen Knight, Milwaukee Central
2. Cecelia Gilchriest and Darius Mosteika, NY West
3. Robert McComsey and Olga Bylim, Tarrytown
Open Smooth Champion Junior
Sarah Haworth and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
American Closed Smooth Rhythm A
1. Patrick Alonsagay and Lindsey Rutherford, Indianapolis
2. Giovanni Fortezza and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
3. Jen Crossen and Edgar Walker, Atlanta Downtown
American Closed Smooth Rhythm B
1. Sharman Olsen and Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
2. Heidi Lewis and Jeff Lewis, Columbus East
3. Janet Bruttell and AJ Molter, Boca Raton
American Open Smooth Rhythm A
1. Danielle Beriault and Ben Castellano, Sarasota
2. Philip Widlanski and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
3. Nicole Powers and Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
American Open Smooth Rhythm B
1. Philip Widlanski and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
2. Melanie Gerber and Stefan Dobrev, St Petersburg
3. Robert McComsey and Olga Bylim, Tarrytown
Monday, December 04, 2006
New Dance Reality TV Show Airs In December
"Dirty Dancing," a WE tv Original Series hosted by Cris Judd, will premiere on Wednesday, December 6th at 10:00 EST/9:00 CT. Over 8 weeks, 18 women will compete with the help of 6 male professional dance instructors. Each week's episode will center on a specific dance style - from ballroom to hip-hop. The winning couple, selected by a panel of judges, will win a professional dance contract.Don't miss "Dirty Dancing," the latest show to jump on the dance craze bandwagon!
Friday, December 01, 2006
Spotlight On...Linda Dean
There’s no doubt about it: Linda Dean is a legend in the ballroom dance industry. Her controversial appearance at Blackpool with partner Vernon Brock is still talked about - thirty years later. Linda has spent a lifetime dancing and, almost just as long, with Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Competing in a variety of styles all over the world, performing, coaching, and judging, Linda’s career is an inspiration to every dancer.Learning ballet, tap, and jazz when she was five years old, Linda entered the world of ballroom dancing when she was twenty. At that time, staff members at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Philadelphia persuaded her to enter the studio’s training class. From that point on, it wasn’t long before she was on her way. With partner, George Hendrix, Linda competed in the first USDSC in 1971. Placing in the finals that year, Linda and George came back in 1972 to win both the Theatrical and American Style divisions.
In 1975, Linda began her partnership with Vernon Brock. Linda and Vernon won the USDSC’s International Latin division for the next four years. From 1975-1978, they represented the United States in the World Championships, making the finals for all four years.
And then came Blackpool. The stories are famous. Long cited as the most memorable Blackpool competition ever, Linda and Vernon’s attendance at Blackpool in 1976 made dance history. It all started when they were rehearsing. Everyone stopped and watched them practice, astounded by Linda and Vernon’s talent. When they didn’t make the finals, a near riot ensued with people in the audience stomping their feet and booing loudly. “We got more attention,” Linda recalls, “for not making the finals than the winners did.”
However it isn’t that competition that Linda remembers most fondly. In 1977, Linda and Vernon were invited to compete at The Duel Of The Giants at The Royal Albert Hall in London. A unique event no longer in existence, The Duel Of The Giants consisted of two high ranking couples competing against each other. The winner was determined by the audience. Linda and Vernon won the competition against a couple from South Africa.
Her partnership with Vernon ended in 1979. “The key to a successful partnership,” Linda advises, “is personality.” Although they practiced 5 days a week for 3-4 hours each day to prepare for their competitions, they never once argued, remaining consummate professionals and always respectful of one another.
They continued to do shows until 1984. Presently, she is an adjudicator at major United States and world championships. When judging, Linda looks for timing, characteristics of the dance, and control. She is pleased with the quality she sees in competitions now. “The standards are higher now.”
Linda also coaches and is a member of the Fred Astaire Dance Board. Currently based in Arizona, she has been with Fred Astaire Dance Studios all over the United States, including New York, Texas, New Orleans, and Florida. “I’ve met great dancers and great people at Fred Astaire,” she explains.
Throughout her award winning career, Linda has captivated the world with her style, technique, and pure talent. We are immensely proud to have someone of her caliber as part of our organization.
Monday, November 27, 2006
New Studios
Jose Rivera and Dr. Constance Mosher have opened a new studio in Delaware, Ohio.
Tom Korpitz and Michael Hosale have opened a studio in Nashville, Tennessee.
Tom Korpitz and Michael Hosale have opened a studio in Nashville, Tennessee.
Out On DVD - Astaire and Rogers
The last 5 selections in their 10-movie partnership is now out on DVD: “Astaire & Rogers Ultimate Collector’s Edition.” This comprehensive box set ($99.98) includes all 10 of their films, including extras like the documentary "Astaire and Rogers: Partners in Rhythm."Ratings For Dancing With The Stars Sky Rocket
With an average of 20 million viewers, "Dancing With the Stars" is the No. 1 reality series and the 4th most-watched show. In its third season, "Dancing" grew 8% in total viewers and 10% in the desirable 18-to-49-year-old demographic and ranks No. 9 among 18- to 49-year-olds who earn more than $100,000.
Top Teachers Awarded At 2006 NDC
The following teachers were awarded Top Teaching awards at the 2006 NDC in Orlando:
Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
Brian Oaks, Naples
Jeff Hajko, Naples
Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
AJ Molter, Boca Raton
Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
Brian Oaks, Naples
Jeff Hajko, Naples
Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
AJ Molter, Boca Raton
Instructor At Buffalo Studio Teaches Non-Stop!
Tommy Radon, staff member at the Buffalo, New York studio, taught 114 1/2 lessons one week in November - a record in the Fred Astaire system and probably in the world.During one week period, Tommy taught from 9AM to 1AM, Monday through Friday, from 8:30AM to 2AM on Saturday, and from 7:30AM to 3AM on Sunday, only to go back to work at 1PM on Monday.
Congratulations Tommy! We admire and appreciate your dedication.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Emmitt Smith Wins Dancing With The Stars!
The votes have been counted, America has weighed in, and Emmitt Smith was crowned the champion, along with his partner Cheryl Burke! Congratulations to all the participants of this exciting season, including Fred Astaire champion dancers Tony Dovolani and Jesse DeSoto! Nearly 28 million people watched the finale, the show's biggest audience ever. Stay tuned for more information on the next Dancing With The Stars season (rumored to be starting in March of 2007).
Rochester Studio In The News
The Fred Astaire Studio in Rochester, MN was recently highlighted on a local ABC show where the sports newscaster, in his weekly profile on offbeat sports, came to the studio for lessons. Check out the video clip here.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Variety Orlando Helps Children With Our Donations
By Erica Lopez
As many of you know, the partnership between Fred Astaire Dance Studios and Variety – The Children’s Charity has continued to grow. At this year’s national competition in Florida, Variety of Orlando was able to share its mobility story about helping children at a local elementary school thanks to donations made by Fred Astaire owners, teachers and students at last year’s Mix and Match competition.
Variety of Orlando received a letter from Andrea Cushman, a young mother of four girls. Two of them, twins named Abigail and Emily, have severe cases of cerebral palsy. Abigail and Emily are two of about thirty children who attend Winter Springs Elementary School, Seminole County’s only elementary school that caters to physically impaired children. Despite funding from the county, the school was unable to collect the total amount needed to put in an automatic door opener that would allow handicapped children to come in and out of the school’s front door unassisted.
Variety of Orlando used the money donated by Fred Astaire Dance Studios to purchase the automatic door opener for Winter Springs Elementary. Abigail, Emily, their grandparents, sisters and mother came to this year’s competition and presented Jack Rothweiler with a thank you card from all the children at the school.
After the presentation, an anonymous dancer generously donated $10,000 to Variety of Orlando to help more children in need!
Variety of Orlando and Variety of the U.S. are incredibly grateful to Jack Rothweiler, Pahjmon Lipsey and all the students and dancers from Fred Astaire Dance Studios who helped make this wish a reality for Emily and Abigail. The generosity of everyone associated with Fred Astaire Dance Studios humbles and overwhelms us. Thank you!
As many of you know, the partnership between Fred Astaire Dance Studios and Variety – The Children’s Charity has continued to grow. At this year’s national competition in Florida, Variety of Orlando was able to share its mobility story about helping children at a local elementary school thanks to donations made by Fred Astaire owners, teachers and students at last year’s Mix and Match competition.
Variety of Orlando received a letter from Andrea Cushman, a young mother of four girls. Two of them, twins named Abigail and Emily, have severe cases of cerebral palsy. Abigail and Emily are two of about thirty children who attend Winter Springs Elementary School, Seminole County’s only elementary school that caters to physically impaired children. Despite funding from the county, the school was unable to collect the total amount needed to put in an automatic door opener that would allow handicapped children to come in and out of the school’s front door unassisted.
Variety of Orlando used the money donated by Fred Astaire Dance Studios to purchase the automatic door opener for Winter Springs Elementary. Abigail, Emily, their grandparents, sisters and mother came to this year’s competition and presented Jack Rothweiler with a thank you card from all the children at the school.
After the presentation, an anonymous dancer generously donated $10,000 to Variety of Orlando to help more children in need!
Variety of Orlando and Variety of the U.S. are incredibly grateful to Jack Rothweiler, Pahjmon Lipsey and all the students and dancers from Fred Astaire Dance Studios who helped make this wish a reality for Emily and Abigail. The generosity of everyone associated with Fred Astaire Dance Studios humbles and overwhelms us. Thank you!
The Winner’s Circle!
Congratulations to all the competitors at Fred Astaire's 2006 National Dance Competition!
Professional Divisions Winners
Professional Divisions Winners
American Closed Novice/Mixed
1. Aaron DeSoto & Jackie Josephs, Chicago North
2. Ben Seifert & SabineHeydecker, Woodlands
3. Victor Luna & Diedre Williams, Fort Walton Beach
4. Enrique Curi & Michelle Mols, Sarasota
5. Jeff Woraratanaoharm & Elena Ivanchenko, Charleston
6. Pierre Bush & Jaime Bristol, Atlanta Downtown
7. David Chancellor & Stephanie Peacock, Tallahassee
American Closed Novice
1. Ben Seifert & SabineHeydecker, Woodlands
2. Guillermo Rubio & Erica Brown, Boca Raton
3. Chris Schultz & Diedre Williams, Fort Walton Beach
4. Kevin Prothro & Dinorah Gonzales, Sugarland
5. Robert Porch & Brittney Cole, Ft. Myers
6. Samuel Mann & Jessica Rice, Atlanta
American Closed Pre-Championship
1. Pierre Bush & Michelle Rigo, Atlanta
2. Ben Seifert & Sabine Heydecker, Woodlands
3. Guillermo Rubio & Erica Brown, Boca Raton
4. Chris Schultz & Diedre Williams, Fort Walton Beach
5. Shawn Hafer & Stephanie Peacock, Tallahassee
6. Kevin Prothro & Dinorah Gonzales, Sugarland
International Open Standard 5-Dance
1. Randy Dias & Viktoriya Dias, Fort Walton Beach
2. Warren Brown & Babette Brown, Jupiter
American Closed Bronze/Silver Smooth
1. Darian Chancellor & Tiffany Chancellor, Tallahassee
2. Viktor Luna & Gabriela Ocipova, Fort Walton Beach
3. John Money & Michelle Rigo, Atlanta North
4. Dustin Jones & Alexandra Ahern, Youngstown
5. Tommy Alejandro & Nicole Harford, Kingwood
6. Glen Gandelman & Tiffany Sims, Charleston and Palm Harbor
American Rising Star Smooth
1. Darian Chancellor & Tiffany Chancellor, Tallahassee
2. Dustin Jones & Alexandra Ahern, Youngstown
American Open Smooth 4-Dance
1. Kostadin Bidjourov & Carrie Babcock, Upper Montclair
2. Randy Dias & Viktoriya Dias, Ft. Walton Beach
3. Victor Luna & Dawn Westberry, Ft. Walton Beach
4. Tony Scheppler & Tonja Martin, West Side
5. Darian Chancellor & Tiffany Chancellor, Tallahassee
6. Dustin Jones & Alexandra Ahern, Youngstown
American Closed Bronze/Silver Rhythm
1. Christov Schuster & Andrea Bergbauer, Glastonbury
2. Nedko Petrov & Marieta Nedialkova, Phoenix
3. Josh Ortiz & Lacey Bramblett, Charleston
4. Paul Millington & Caroline Pendland, Greensboro
5. Viktor Luna & Gabriela Ocipova, Ft. Walton Beach
6. Christopher Uy & Kimalee Piedad, Ft. Walton Beach
American Open Rhythm 5-Dance
1. Hayk Arshakian & Albina Bashirian, Brookfield
2. Jesse DeSoto & Jackie Josephs, Chicago North
3. Andriy Gergel & Elena Ivanchenko, Charleston
4. Ben Castellano & Diane Velonskis, Sarasota
5. Paul Millington & Caroline Pendland, Greensboro
6. Christopher Uy & Kimalee Piedad, Ft. Walton Beach
American Rising Star Rhythm
1. Anderson Sylvestre & Jessica Downing, Willoughby
2. Christopher Uy & Kimalee Piedad, Ft. Walton Beach
3. Thomas Radon & Caitlin Doldan, Buffalo
International Open Latin 5-Dance
1. Vladimir Velev & Gabriella Bodoc, Jupiter
2. Krystian Grabowski & Irina Grabowski, Vernon Hills
3. Sergh Aliev & Stephanie Frey, Hamden
4. Oscar Garcia & Erika Koberlein, Daytona
Top Teacher
1. Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
2. Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
3. Slavic Bularga, New York West
4. Brian Oakes, Naples
5. Jim Carter, Palm Coast
6. Jeff Hajko, Naples
7. Darius Mosteika, New York West
8. A.J. Molter, Boca Raton
9. Dawn Westberry, Ft. Walton Beach
10. Erika Koberlein, Daytona Beach
Top Studio
1. New York West
2. Ft. Walton Beach
Amateur Couple
1. Bill & Jennifer Stogner, Daytona Beach
Top Student
Results for gentlemen:
1. Jerry Ehrlich, New York West
Results for ladies:
1. Sharman Olshan, Buffalo
Top Newcomer
Andrea Flink, New York West
Top Bronze Student
Sharman Olshan, Buffalo
Top Silver Student
Mary Mitchem, Houston Memorial
Top Gold Student
Prudence Opperman, New York West
Solo
1. Sarah Haworth, Milwaukee Central
2. Cecelia Gilchriest, New York West
3. Kathy Hoffman, New York West
All had top scores of 97
Showcase
1. Prudence Opperman, New York West
2. Sandra Gottwald, Milwaukee North
Both had top scores of 97.2
Pro/Am Scholarship Divisions
Closed International Standard B
1. Lindsey Willis and Dimitriy Saykovskyy, Tarrytown
2. Sharman Olsen, Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
Open International Standard Amateur Couple A
1. Luis and Lynne Mijangos, NY West
American Smooth Bronze Closed A
1. Amanda Conner and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
2. Jen Crossen and Edgar Walker, Atlanta Downtown
3. Victoria Ritter and Oleg Skrypnyk, Tarrytown
American Smooth Bronze Closed B
1. Vivian Ehrlich and Darius Mosteika, NY West
2. Sharman Olsen and Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
3. Penelope Rostad and Rick Soppa, Milwaukee North
American Smooth Bronze Open A
1. Nicole Powers and Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
2. Amanda Conner and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
3. Jen Crossen and Christjohn Batters, Atlanta Downtown
American Smooth Bronze Open B
1. Susan Miller and Stephen Knight, Milwaukee Central
2. Cecelia Gilchriest and Darius Mosteika, NY West
3. Robert McComsey and Olga Bylim, Tarrytown
Open Smooth Champion Junior
Sarah Haworth and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
American Closed Smooth Rhythm A
1. Patrick Alonsagay and Lindsey Rutherford, Indianapolis
2. Giovanni Fortezza and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
3. Jen Crossen and Edgar Walker, Atlanta Downtown
American Closed Smooth Rhythm B
1. Sharman Olsen and Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
2. Heidi Lewis and Jeff Lewis, Columbus East
3. Janet Bruttell and AJ Molter, Boca Raton
American Open Smooth Rhythm A
1. Danielle Beriault and Ben Castellano, Sarasota
2. Philip Widlanski and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
3. Nicole Powers and Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
American Open Smooth Rhythm B
1. Philip Widlanski and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
2. Melanie Gerber and Stefan Dobrev, St Petersburg
3. Robert McComsey and Olga Bylim, Tarrytown
1. Aaron DeSoto & Jackie Josephs, Chicago North
2. Ben Seifert & SabineHeydecker, Woodlands
3. Victor Luna & Diedre Williams, Fort Walton Beach
4. Enrique Curi & Michelle Mols, Sarasota
5. Jeff Woraratanaoharm & Elena Ivanchenko, Charleston
6. Pierre Bush & Jaime Bristol, Atlanta Downtown
7. David Chancellor & Stephanie Peacock, Tallahassee
American Closed Novice
1. Ben Seifert & SabineHeydecker, Woodlands
2. Guillermo Rubio & Erica Brown, Boca Raton
3. Chris Schultz & Diedre Williams, Fort Walton Beach
4. Kevin Prothro & Dinorah Gonzales, Sugarland
5. Robert Porch & Brittney Cole, Ft. Myers
6. Samuel Mann & Jessica Rice, Atlanta
American Closed Pre-Championship
1. Pierre Bush & Michelle Rigo, Atlanta
2. Ben Seifert & Sabine Heydecker, Woodlands
3. Guillermo Rubio & Erica Brown, Boca Raton
4. Chris Schultz & Diedre Williams, Fort Walton Beach
5. Shawn Hafer & Stephanie Peacock, Tallahassee
6. Kevin Prothro & Dinorah Gonzales, Sugarland
International Open Standard 5-Dance
1. Randy Dias & Viktoriya Dias, Fort Walton Beach
2. Warren Brown & Babette Brown, Jupiter
American Closed Bronze/Silver Smooth
1. Darian Chancellor & Tiffany Chancellor, Tallahassee
2. Viktor Luna & Gabriela Ocipova, Fort Walton Beach
3. John Money & Michelle Rigo, Atlanta North
4. Dustin Jones & Alexandra Ahern, Youngstown
5. Tommy Alejandro & Nicole Harford, Kingwood
6. Glen Gandelman & Tiffany Sims, Charleston and Palm Harbor
American Rising Star Smooth
1. Darian Chancellor & Tiffany Chancellor, Tallahassee
2. Dustin Jones & Alexandra Ahern, Youngstown
American Open Smooth 4-Dance
1. Kostadin Bidjourov & Carrie Babcock, Upper Montclair
2. Randy Dias & Viktoriya Dias, Ft. Walton Beach
3. Victor Luna & Dawn Westberry, Ft. Walton Beach
4. Tony Scheppler & Tonja Martin, West Side
5. Darian Chancellor & Tiffany Chancellor, Tallahassee
6. Dustin Jones & Alexandra Ahern, Youngstown
American Closed Bronze/Silver Rhythm
1. Christov Schuster & Andrea Bergbauer, Glastonbury
2. Nedko Petrov & Marieta Nedialkova, Phoenix
3. Josh Ortiz & Lacey Bramblett, Charleston
4. Paul Millington & Caroline Pendland, Greensboro
5. Viktor Luna & Gabriela Ocipova, Ft. Walton Beach
6. Christopher Uy & Kimalee Piedad, Ft. Walton Beach
American Open Rhythm 5-Dance
1. Hayk Arshakian & Albina Bashirian, Brookfield
2. Jesse DeSoto & Jackie Josephs, Chicago North
3. Andriy Gergel & Elena Ivanchenko, Charleston
4. Ben Castellano & Diane Velonskis, Sarasota
5. Paul Millington & Caroline Pendland, Greensboro
6. Christopher Uy & Kimalee Piedad, Ft. Walton Beach
American Rising Star Rhythm
1. Anderson Sylvestre & Jessica Downing, Willoughby
2. Christopher Uy & Kimalee Piedad, Ft. Walton Beach
3. Thomas Radon & Caitlin Doldan, Buffalo
International Open Latin 5-Dance
1. Vladimir Velev & Gabriella Bodoc, Jupiter
2. Krystian Grabowski & Irina Grabowski, Vernon Hills
3. Sergh Aliev & Stephanie Frey, Hamden
4. Oscar Garcia & Erika Koberlein, Daytona
Top Teacher
1. Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
2. Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
3. Slavic Bularga, New York West
4. Brian Oakes, Naples
5. Jim Carter, Palm Coast
6. Jeff Hajko, Naples
7. Darius Mosteika, New York West
8. A.J. Molter, Boca Raton
9. Dawn Westberry, Ft. Walton Beach
10. Erika Koberlein, Daytona Beach
Top Studio
1. New York West
2. Ft. Walton Beach
Amateur Couple
1. Bill & Jennifer Stogner, Daytona Beach
Top Student
Results for gentlemen:
1. Jerry Ehrlich, New York West
Results for ladies:
1. Sharman Olshan, Buffalo
Top Newcomer
Andrea Flink, New York West
Top Bronze Student
Sharman Olshan, Buffalo
Top Silver Student
Mary Mitchem, Houston Memorial
Top Gold Student
Prudence Opperman, New York West
Solo
1. Sarah Haworth, Milwaukee Central
2. Cecelia Gilchriest, New York West
3. Kathy Hoffman, New York West
All had top scores of 97
Showcase
1. Prudence Opperman, New York West
2. Sandra Gottwald, Milwaukee North
Both had top scores of 97.2
Pro/Am Scholarship Divisions
Closed International Standard B
1. Lindsey Willis and Dimitriy Saykovskyy, Tarrytown
2. Sharman Olsen, Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
Open International Standard Amateur Couple A
1. Luis and Lynne Mijangos, NY West
American Smooth Bronze Closed A
1. Amanda Conner and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
2. Jen Crossen and Edgar Walker, Atlanta Downtown
3. Victoria Ritter and Oleg Skrypnyk, Tarrytown
American Smooth Bronze Closed B
1. Vivian Ehrlich and Darius Mosteika, NY West
2. Sharman Olsen and Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
3. Penelope Rostad and Rick Soppa, Milwaukee North
American Smooth Bronze Open A
1. Nicole Powers and Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
2. Amanda Conner and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
3. Jen Crossen and Christjohn Batters, Atlanta Downtown
American Smooth Bronze Open B
1. Susan Miller and Stephen Knight, Milwaukee Central
2. Cecelia Gilchriest and Darius Mosteika, NY West
3. Robert McComsey and Olga Bylim, Tarrytown
Open Smooth Champion Junior
Sarah Haworth and Nicholas Plante, Milwaukee Central
American Closed Smooth Rhythm A
1. Patrick Alonsagay and Lindsey Rutherford, Indianapolis
2. Giovanni Fortezza and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
3. Jen Crossen and Edgar Walker, Atlanta Downtown
American Closed Smooth Rhythm B
1. Sharman Olsen and Andrei Abrashin, Buffalo
2. Heidi Lewis and Jeff Lewis, Columbus East
3. Janet Bruttell and AJ Molter, Boca Raton
American Open Smooth Rhythm A
1. Danielle Beriault and Ben Castellano, Sarasota
2. Philip Widlanski and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
3. Nicole Powers and Stefan Dobrev, St. Petersburg
American Open Smooth Rhythm B
1. Philip Widlanski and Jolanta Mosteika, NY West
2. Melanie Gerber and Stefan Dobrev, St Petersburg
3. Robert McComsey and Olga Bylim, Tarrytown
Dancing With The Stars On Tour
The hit reality TV show Dancing With The Stars is hitting the road, bringing a select team of professional dancers and celebrities from the first three seasons to 38 cities through the US.Participating celebrities and dancers include Joey Lawrence and Edyta Sliwinska (Season 3); Harry Hamlin and Ashly DelGrosso (Season 3); Lisa Rinna and Louis van Amstel (Season 2); Willa Ford and Maksim Chmerkovskiy (Season 2); Drew Lachey and Cheryl Burke (Season 2); Joey McIntyre (Season 1) and Kym Johnson (Season 3).
Scheduled Dates are:
12/19/2006 ipayOne Center at the Sports Arena - San Diego
12/20/2006 Save Mart Center - Fresno
12/22/2006 KeyArena - Seattle
12/23/2006 Rose Garden - Portland
12/27/2006 HP Pavilion - San Jose
12/28/2006 Staples Center - Los Angeles
12/29/2006 Glendale Arena - Glendale
12/30/2006 Thomas and Mack Center - Las Vegas
01/02/2007 Qwest Center - Omaha
01/03/2007 Xcel Energy Center - St. Paul
01/05/2007 Allstate Arena - Rosemont
01/06/2007 Palace of Auburn Hills - Auburn Hills
01/07/2007 Nationwide Arena - Columbus
01/09/2007 Wolstein Center - Cleveland
01/10/2007 Air Canada Centre - Toronto
01/12/2007 Bradley Center - Milwaukee
01/13/2007 Mark of the Quad Cities - Moline
01/14/2007 Scottrade Center (formerly Savvis Center) - St. Louis
01/16/2007 Roberts Stadium - Evansville
01/17/2007 US Bank Arena - Cincinnati
01/18/2007 Conseco Fieldhouse - Indianapolis
01/19/2007 Rupp Arena - Lexington
01/21/2007 Gaylord Entertainment Center - Nashville
01/23/2007 St. Pete Times Forum - Tampa
01/24/2007 BankAtlantic Center - Sunrise
01/26/2007 Gwinnett Center - Duluth
01/27/2007 Greensboro Coliseum - Greensboro
01/28/2007 Verizon Center (formerly MCI Center) - Washington
01/30/2007 Richmond Coliseum - Richmond
02/01/2007 Continental Airlines Arena - East Rutherford
02/02/2007 Nassau Veterans Memorial Colliseum - Uniondale
02/03/2007 Mohegan Sun Arena - Uncasville
02/05/2007 DCU Center (formerly Centrum Center) - Worcester
02/06/2007 Wachovia Center - Philadelphia
02/07/2007 Verizon Wireless Arena - Manchester
02/08/2007 Arena at Harbor Yard - Bridgeport
02/10/2007 Dunkin Donuts Center - Providence
02/11/2007 Boardwalk Hall - Atlantic City
Scheduled Dates are:
12/19/2006 ipayOne Center at the Sports Arena - San Diego
12/20/2006 Save Mart Center - Fresno
12/22/2006 KeyArena - Seattle
12/23/2006 Rose Garden - Portland
12/27/2006 HP Pavilion - San Jose
12/28/2006 Staples Center - Los Angeles
12/29/2006 Glendale Arena - Glendale
12/30/2006 Thomas and Mack Center - Las Vegas
01/02/2007 Qwest Center - Omaha
01/03/2007 Xcel Energy Center - St. Paul
01/05/2007 Allstate Arena - Rosemont
01/06/2007 Palace of Auburn Hills - Auburn Hills
01/07/2007 Nationwide Arena - Columbus
01/09/2007 Wolstein Center - Cleveland
01/10/2007 Air Canada Centre - Toronto
01/12/2007 Bradley Center - Milwaukee
01/13/2007 Mark of the Quad Cities - Moline
01/14/2007 Scottrade Center (formerly Savvis Center) - St. Louis
01/16/2007 Roberts Stadium - Evansville
01/17/2007 US Bank Arena - Cincinnati
01/18/2007 Conseco Fieldhouse - Indianapolis
01/19/2007 Rupp Arena - Lexington
01/21/2007 Gaylord Entertainment Center - Nashville
01/23/2007 St. Pete Times Forum - Tampa
01/24/2007 BankAtlantic Center - Sunrise
01/26/2007 Gwinnett Center - Duluth
01/27/2007 Greensboro Coliseum - Greensboro
01/28/2007 Verizon Center (formerly MCI Center) - Washington
01/30/2007 Richmond Coliseum - Richmond
02/01/2007 Continental Airlines Arena - East Rutherford
02/02/2007 Nassau Veterans Memorial Colliseum - Uniondale
02/03/2007 Mohegan Sun Arena - Uncasville
02/05/2007 DCU Center (formerly Centrum Center) - Worcester
02/06/2007 Wachovia Center - Philadelphia
02/07/2007 Verizon Wireless Arena - Manchester
02/08/2007 Arena at Harbor Yard - Bridgeport
02/10/2007 Dunkin Donuts Center - Providence
02/11/2007 Boardwalk Hall - Atlantic City
Children Shine At The West Reading Studio
Inspired by the hit documentary Mad Hot Ballroom, Jerry and Linda Topez, studio owners of the West Reading studio, looked around their local community to see what they could do.They found a partnership with an elementary school about five blocks from the studio. Every Thursday, after school, students walk over to the studio for lessons in ballroom dancing.
When the program first started, the children showed up in sloppy clothes, more appropriate for the playground than the ballroom. That changed once Jerry, (jokingly nicknamed “The Sergeant” by some of his instructors) stressed the importance of appearances. Now the boys wear neck ties, black pants, and white shirts when they come to dance.
Starting out with the waltz and then the rumba, to give them a feel for both styles of dancing, the children seemed to enjoy the rhythmic dances the most. The cha-cha and merengue were some of their favorites!
About 60 children are enrolled in this program, giving them the opportunity to gain a renewed sense of self-confidence, discipline, and personal achievement. As a testimony to the powers of dancing, one student told his pediatrician (who happened to be another student at the studio) that his after-school lessons were “the most wonderful experience” he’d ever had, “affecting his whole life.”
Even with so many children at the studio, Jerry and Linda were able to maintain discipline. And, along with learning how to dance the cha-cha, the children all gained a respect for women and lessons in the importance in courtesy and manners.
Fred Astaire Dance Studios, An Inspiration, Part II
By Stanley McCalla
Back in the 80’s and through the same Fred Astaire Dance Studio, I met my new dance partner and wife, Jennifer Mc Calla.
What followed was a series of events that took us on the path of winning both the Latin and Standard US Amateur title. Jennifer and I were going to Blackpool, England one year when Vicky Regan, one of our New York friends and teachers, contacted some World Title holders and renowned coaches from England and scheduled some lessons for us.
For the next few years, traveling back and forth to England 3 times annually, we were fortunate to take lessons with Peter Eggleton, the late Benny Tolmeyer, the Laxholms, Kenny and Marion Welsh, the late Sonny Binick, Stephen and Jennifer Hillier (our main standard coaches for the last 20 years), Peter Maxwell, the late Walter Laird, June Mc Murdough, Robert & Helene Ritchie.
Back in the States during the same period of time, I noticed a new couple on the scene while attending the US Championships at Madison Square Garden. They were mesmerizing. It so happened that they represented the Fred Astaire Dance Studios in New York City. The young lady dancer was statuesque and majestic at best with lengthy legs and a fabulous figure. She was partnered with this Cuban-macho looking man, almost like a Mario Dancing with the Stars - type. I remember this vividly. They were dancing Theater Art and he was wearing a white and pink cat – suit; white definitely… pink not quite sure. I don’t recall how they fared but this pair did not pursue their Theater Art career. But during the ensuing year, they took the country by storm -winning just about all the Rising Stars competition there was in Latin and Standard and became United States 10 dance Champions. At just about the same period, Jennifer and I won the US amateur title in both Latin and Standard and became very good friends with—you guessed it—Laura and Armando Martin. Continuing on the success trail, they became owners of a Fred Astaire Dance Studio grossing $ 1 million a year. Wow! What an example of leadership! And they did all that while competing; so you can imagine what was going through our mind:
“Fred Astaire Dance Studios?”
Tune in for the continuation of this article in the next issue.
Stanley McCalla is a FADS Dance Board Member and Coach, former FADS undefeated National Champion, 4 times United States Amateur Standard, Latin and 10 dance Champion, 4 times US representative to World Championships, 7 years principal Dancer of American Ballroom Theater Co (Pierre Dulaine).
Back in the 80’s and through the same Fred Astaire Dance Studio, I met my new dance partner and wife, Jennifer Mc Calla.
What followed was a series of events that took us on the path of winning both the Latin and Standard US Amateur title. Jennifer and I were going to Blackpool, England one year when Vicky Regan, one of our New York friends and teachers, contacted some World Title holders and renowned coaches from England and scheduled some lessons for us.
For the next few years, traveling back and forth to England 3 times annually, we were fortunate to take lessons with Peter Eggleton, the late Benny Tolmeyer, the Laxholms, Kenny and Marion Welsh, the late Sonny Binick, Stephen and Jennifer Hillier (our main standard coaches for the last 20 years), Peter Maxwell, the late Walter Laird, June Mc Murdough, Robert & Helene Ritchie.
Back in the States during the same period of time, I noticed a new couple on the scene while attending the US Championships at Madison Square Garden. They were mesmerizing. It so happened that they represented the Fred Astaire Dance Studios in New York City. The young lady dancer was statuesque and majestic at best with lengthy legs and a fabulous figure. She was partnered with this Cuban-macho looking man, almost like a Mario Dancing with the Stars - type. I remember this vividly. They were dancing Theater Art and he was wearing a white and pink cat – suit; white definitely… pink not quite sure. I don’t recall how they fared but this pair did not pursue their Theater Art career. But during the ensuing year, they took the country by storm -winning just about all the Rising Stars competition there was in Latin and Standard and became United States 10 dance Champions. At just about the same period, Jennifer and I won the US amateur title in both Latin and Standard and became very good friends with—you guessed it—Laura and Armando Martin. Continuing on the success trail, they became owners of a Fred Astaire Dance Studio grossing $ 1 million a year. Wow! What an example of leadership! And they did all that while competing; so you can imagine what was going through our mind:
“Fred Astaire Dance Studios?”
Tune in for the continuation of this article in the next issue.
Stanley McCalla is a FADS Dance Board Member and Coach, former FADS undefeated National Champion, 4 times United States Amateur Standard, Latin and 10 dance Champion, 4 times US representative to World Championships, 7 years principal Dancer of American Ballroom Theater Co (Pierre Dulaine).
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Congratulations to Upper Montclair resident Deborah “Gina” Gianelli
Congratulations to Upper Montclair resident Deborah “Gina” Gianelli. Gina traveled to Jacksonville to compete in the United States pro-am Theatrical Championships in October of 2006, where she placed 3rd in the country. Gina dances Theatrical Ballroom with her professional partner, Kostadin Bidjourov.
Theatrical ballroom is characterized by 50% floor dancing and 50% aerial dancing, lifts and tricks. Gina takes lessons with Kostadin, who himself is a 5 Time U.S. National Professional Theatrical Champion, at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Upper Montclair. For more information contact Carrie at the Upper Montclair NJ Dance Studio or 973-783-8999.
Theatrical ballroom is characterized by 50% floor dancing and 50% aerial dancing, lifts and tricks. Gina takes lessons with Kostadin, who himself is a 5 Time U.S. National Professional Theatrical Champion, at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Upper Montclair. For more information contact Carrie at the Upper Montclair NJ Dance Studio or 973-783-8999.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Who Do You Think Will Win Dancing With The Stars?
According to one online poll (http://realitytv.about.com/gi/pages/poll.htm?poll_id=2448082808&linkback=http://realitytv.about.com/), fans are rooting for Emmitt Smith:
Joey (101) 12%
Mario(316) 39%
Emmitt (383) 47%
(out of a total 800 votes)
Who do you think should be the next Dancing With The Stars champion? We want to hear from you!
Joey (101) 12%
Mario(316) 39%
Emmitt (383) 47%
(out of a total 800 votes)
Who do you think should be the next Dancing With The Stars champion? We want to hear from you!
Monday, November 06, 2006
Last Dance In Chicago
4 Chicago area dance students pair off with Fred Astaire Dance Studio instructors on ABC7's "Last Dance" competition. The dancers will perform on ABC7 News This Morning Monday through Friday of this week. The winners will be determined by three sets of scores from ABC7 anchors, an expert judge and the audience! Participating Fred Astaire studios include Vernon Hills, Buffalo Grove, Mt. Prospect, Tinley Park, and Chicago Downtown. For more information, click here.
Friday, October 27, 2006
Dancing With The Stars On Tour
Dancing With The Stars is hitting the road, bringing a team of professional dancers and celebrities from seasons 1-3 to 38 cities through the Unites States. Tickets will go on sale on November 4th.
Participating celebrities and dancers are Joey Lawrence and Edyta Sliwinska (Season 3), Harry Hamlin and Ashly DelGrosso (Season 3), Lisa Rinna and Lousi van Amstel (Season 2), Willa Ford and Maksim Chmerkovskiy (Season 2), Drew Lachey and Cherly Burke (Season 2), Joey McIntyre (Season 1), and Kym Johnson (Season 3).
Scheduled Dates are:
12/19/2006 ipayOne Center at the Sports Arena - San Diego
12/20/2006 Save Mart Center - Fresno
12/22/2006 KeyArena - Seattle
12/23/2006 Rose Garden - Portland
12/27/2006 HP Pavilion - San Jose
12/28/2006 Staples Center - Los Angeles
12/29/2006 Glendale Arena - Glendale
12/30/2006 Thomas and Mack Center - Las Vegas
01/02/2007 Qwest Center - Omaha
01/03/2007 Xcel Energy Center - St. Paul
01/05/2007 Allstate Arena - Rosemont
01/06/2007 Palace of Auburn Hills - Auburn Hills
01/07/2007 Nationwide Arena - Columbus
01/09/2007 Wolstein Center - Cleveland
01/10/2007 Air Canada Centre - Toronto
01/12/2007 Bradley Center - Milwaukee
01/13/2007 Mark of the Quad Cities - Moline
01/14/2007 Scottrade Center (formerly Savvis Center) - St. Louis
01/16/2007 Roberts Stadium - Evansville
01/17/2007 US Bank Arena - Cincinnati
01/18/2007 Conseco Fieldhouse - Indianapolis
01/19/2007 Rupp Arena - Lexington
01/21/2007 Gaylord Entertainment Center - Nashville
01/23/2007 St. Pete Times Forum - Tampa
01/24/2007 BankAtlantic Center - Sunrise
01/26/2007 Gwinnett Center - Duluth
01/27/2007 Greensboro Coliseum - Greensboro
01/28/2007 Verizon Center (formerly MCI Center) - Washington
01/30/2007 Richmond Coliseum - Richmond
02/01/2007 Continental Airlines Arena - East Rutherford
02/02/2007 Nassau Veterans Memorial Colliseum - Uniondale
02/03/2007 Mohegan Sun Arena - Uncasville
02/05/2007 DCU Center (formerly Centrum Center) - Worcester
02/06/2007 Wachovia Center - Philadelphia
02/07/2007 Verizon Wireless Arena - Manchester
02/08/2007 Arena at Harbor Yard - Bridgeport
02/10/2007 Dunkin Donuts Center - Providence
02/11/2007 Boardwalk Hall - Atlantic City
Participating celebrities and dancers are Joey Lawrence and Edyta Sliwinska (Season 3), Harry Hamlin and Ashly DelGrosso (Season 3), Lisa Rinna and Lousi van Amstel (Season 2), Willa Ford and Maksim Chmerkovskiy (Season 2), Drew Lachey and Cherly Burke (Season 2), Joey McIntyre (Season 1), and Kym Johnson (Season 3).
Scheduled Dates are:
12/19/2006 ipayOne Center at the Sports Arena - San Diego
12/20/2006 Save Mart Center - Fresno
12/22/2006 KeyArena - Seattle
12/23/2006 Rose Garden - Portland
12/27/2006 HP Pavilion - San Jose
12/28/2006 Staples Center - Los Angeles
12/29/2006 Glendale Arena - Glendale
12/30/2006 Thomas and Mack Center - Las Vegas
01/02/2007 Qwest Center - Omaha
01/03/2007 Xcel Energy Center - St. Paul
01/05/2007 Allstate Arena - Rosemont
01/06/2007 Palace of Auburn Hills - Auburn Hills
01/07/2007 Nationwide Arena - Columbus
01/09/2007 Wolstein Center - Cleveland
01/10/2007 Air Canada Centre - Toronto
01/12/2007 Bradley Center - Milwaukee
01/13/2007 Mark of the Quad Cities - Moline
01/14/2007 Scottrade Center (formerly Savvis Center) - St. Louis
01/16/2007 Roberts Stadium - Evansville
01/17/2007 US Bank Arena - Cincinnati
01/18/2007 Conseco Fieldhouse - Indianapolis
01/19/2007 Rupp Arena - Lexington
01/21/2007 Gaylord Entertainment Center - Nashville
01/23/2007 St. Pete Times Forum - Tampa
01/24/2007 BankAtlantic Center - Sunrise
01/26/2007 Gwinnett Center - Duluth
01/27/2007 Greensboro Coliseum - Greensboro
01/28/2007 Verizon Center (formerly MCI Center) - Washington
01/30/2007 Richmond Coliseum - Richmond
02/01/2007 Continental Airlines Arena - East Rutherford
02/02/2007 Nassau Veterans Memorial Colliseum - Uniondale
02/03/2007 Mohegan Sun Arena - Uncasville
02/05/2007 DCU Center (formerly Centrum Center) - Worcester
02/06/2007 Wachovia Center - Philadelphia
02/07/2007 Verizon Wireless Arena - Manchester
02/08/2007 Arena at Harbor Yard - Bridgeport
02/10/2007 Dunkin Donuts Center - Providence
02/11/2007 Boardwalk Hall - Atlantic City
Coming Soon - Holiday Trophy Ball in Connecticut
On December 2, 2006, the South Windsor studio is throwing a Holiday Trophy Ball. Each ticket sold includes a $10 donation to Variety Childrens Charity and each attendee will receive a Top Hat pin.
Happy Birthday South Windsor, CT Studio!
The Fred Astaire Studio in South Windsor, Connecticut is celebrating its first anniversary on November 19th! A big thank you to all the students and staff who made this first year so memorable!
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Win Tickets To The Dancing With The Stars Finale!
Be there when a new champ is crowned!
It's one of the hottest shows on TV and we want you to be part of it! The competition is heating up on ABC's 'Dancing With the Stars' and you could win a trip to the finals. Airfare, hotel, transfers and tickets to the show are included. Our Fred Astaire Studio in Houston is throwing a contest to send one lucky winner to the finale. Contact the Fred Astaire Studio in Houston for more information and you could be on your way! You'll also receive 10 private lessons with a Fred Astaire professional teacher and eight groups or parties at one of the five locations! Good luck from Fred Astaire Dance Studios!
*Ten runners-up will receive a Dancing with the Stars poster.
It's one of the hottest shows on TV and we want you to be part of it! The competition is heating up on ABC's 'Dancing With the Stars' and you could win a trip to the finals. Airfare, hotel, transfers and tickets to the show are included. Our Fred Astaire Studio in Houston is throwing a contest to send one lucky winner to the finale. Contact the Fred Astaire Studio in Houston for more information and you could be on your way! You'll also receive 10 private lessons with a Fred Astaire professional teacher and eight groups or parties at one of the five locations! Good luck from Fred Astaire Dance Studios!
*Ten runners-up will receive a Dancing with the Stars poster.
Spotlight On...Ilya Ifraimov and Nadia Goulina
One of the top professional Latin couples in the dance world today, Ilya Ifraimov and Nadia Goulina are shining stars in the Fred Astaire family.
Their dancing careers started early. Growing up in Moscow, Nadia began dancing when she was 11 years old. She started in the rock and roll style but then became the Russian Standard Champion for ages 16-18, representing Russia in the Olympics in Norway. Originally from Russia, Ilya began dancing when he was 15, focusing on Latin dancing from the start.
They met at Fred Astaire’s Upper Montclair studio where they had both been recruited by Kay Connors. A year after meeting, they began their partnership and now compete in about 15-20 competitions a year. Their list of recent achievements in the past year is long and includes (but is not limited to!):
• 1st at the Yankee Classic.
• 1st at the Maryland DanceSport Championship.
• 1st in Yuletide Ball Championship.
• 1st at the Atlanta Open.
• 2nd at the Embassy Ball.
• 2nd at the Manhattan Dancesport.
• 3rd at the US Nationals.
• 5th at the famous Blackpool competition.
Hard to believe they’ve only been dancing together for 6 years!
To prepare for these competitions, Ilya and Nadia practice about 4 to 5 times a week for 2 hours at a time.
The strength in Ilya and Nadia’s partnership lie in the authenticity of their dancing where the relationship between the man and woman is clearly defined. In their dancing, Ilya and Nadia emphasize traditional male and female roles, where the man is strong and confident and the woman is feminine and sexy. Music helps provide that feeling and their dancing adds passion to the music. Indeed, they focus on what partnership dancing is all about: the love triangle between a man, woman, and the music.
Their role models include top Latin couples such as Bryan Watson and Carmen, and Slavik and Karina. Like Ilya and Nadia, these couples are famous for their musicality, flexibility, and ability to produce a strong image of a man and woman.
As if competing, coaching, and teaching weren’t enough, Ilya and Nadia recently opened their own studio in Montville, New Jersey.
“We feel like we’re Fred Astaire people,” Ilya elaborates about his decision to open a studio, “We believe in the company and we want to stay in it.”
What free time they do have (when they’re not thinking about the designs of their next outfits) is spent going out to clubs and movies, and relaxing with friends.
When asked about the future, Ilya doesn’t hesitate. “Our goal,” he says, “is to make people happy and share our knowledge.”
Ilya and Nadia, you’ve made all of us happy with your dynamic dancing and magical partnership. We’re glad to have you as part of our chain and wish you much continued success.
Their dancing careers started early. Growing up in Moscow, Nadia began dancing when she was 11 years old. She started in the rock and roll style but then became the Russian Standard Champion for ages 16-18, representing Russia in the Olympics in Norway. Originally from Russia, Ilya began dancing when he was 15, focusing on Latin dancing from the start.
They met at Fred Astaire’s Upper Montclair studio where they had both been recruited by Kay Connors. A year after meeting, they began their partnership and now compete in about 15-20 competitions a year. Their list of recent achievements in the past year is long and includes (but is not limited to!):
• 1st at the Yankee Classic.
• 1st at the Maryland DanceSport Championship.
• 1st in Yuletide Ball Championship.
• 1st at the Atlanta Open.
• 2nd at the Embassy Ball.
• 2nd at the Manhattan Dancesport.
• 3rd at the US Nationals.
• 5th at the famous Blackpool competition.
Hard to believe they’ve only been dancing together for 6 years!
To prepare for these competitions, Ilya and Nadia practice about 4 to 5 times a week for 2 hours at a time.
The strength in Ilya and Nadia’s partnership lie in the authenticity of their dancing where the relationship between the man and woman is clearly defined. In their dancing, Ilya and Nadia emphasize traditional male and female roles, where the man is strong and confident and the woman is feminine and sexy. Music helps provide that feeling and their dancing adds passion to the music. Indeed, they focus on what partnership dancing is all about: the love triangle between a man, woman, and the music.
Their role models include top Latin couples such as Bryan Watson and Carmen, and Slavik and Karina. Like Ilya and Nadia, these couples are famous for their musicality, flexibility, and ability to produce a strong image of a man and woman.
As if competing, coaching, and teaching weren’t enough, Ilya and Nadia recently opened their own studio in Montville, New Jersey.
“We feel like we’re Fred Astaire people,” Ilya elaborates about his decision to open a studio, “We believe in the company and we want to stay in it.”
What free time they do have (when they’re not thinking about the designs of their next outfits) is spent going out to clubs and movies, and relaxing with friends.
When asked about the future, Ilya doesn’t hesitate. “Our goal,” he says, “is to make people happy and share our knowledge.”
Ilya and Nadia, you’ve made all of us happy with your dynamic dancing and magical partnership. We’re glad to have you as part of our chain and wish you much continued success.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
What's New?
ABC’s Dancing With The Stars is back. Tune in on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8/7c to watch a host of celebrities turn into ballroom dancers with the help of professionals, including Fred Astaire Dance Champions Tony Dovolani, Jesse DeSoto, and Elena Grinenko!
The 2006 United States Dance Sport Championship (USDSC) was an exciting event and we’re proud to announce that several Fred Astaire professionals swept the competition away. Congratulations to our champions: Tony Dovolani & Elena Grinenko (Professional Rhythm), Victor Luna & Dawn Westberry (Theatrical Dance), Eric Luna & Georgia Ambarian (Cabaret), and Fabian Sanchez & Christina Penatello (US Mambo Champions).
Fred Astaire Dancers Ready to Rumba in Orlando!
Fred Astaire Dancers Ready To Rumba In Orlando
Orlando, FL – September 29, 2006 (Fred Astaire Dance Studios) – Fred Astaire Dance Studios will hold their 2006 National DanceSport Championships (NDC) at the Hilton Walt Disney Resort in Orlando, Florida on October 25-29th, 2006. The NDC will feature top-ranked dancers from around the country competing in a variety of different dance styles and categories. The competition is open to spectators; ticket prices range from $35-50 and can be purchased at the hotel. Highlights of the event will include a professional competition on October 27th at 8:30pm and a dance showcase beginning at 9:00pm on October 28th.
“We’re anticipating,” says Mr. Jack Rothweiler, President and CEO of Fred Astaire Dance Studios, Inc., “that NDC 2006 will be our biggest competition ever since we’re up nationwide 30% in new students and 25% in overall enrollments. This is the best year we’ve ever had in all aspects of the business.”
Fred Astaire Dance Studios are located throughout the United States. Visit Fred Astaire Dance Studios for more information.
Orlando, FL – September 29, 2006 (Fred Astaire Dance Studios) – Fred Astaire Dance Studios will hold their 2006 National DanceSport Championships (NDC) at the Hilton Walt Disney Resort in Orlando, Florida on October 25-29th, 2006. The NDC will feature top-ranked dancers from around the country competing in a variety of different dance styles and categories. The competition is open to spectators; ticket prices range from $35-50 and can be purchased at the hotel. Highlights of the event will include a professional competition on October 27th at 8:30pm and a dance showcase beginning at 9:00pm on October 28th.
“We’re anticipating,” says Mr. Jack Rothweiler, President and CEO of Fred Astaire Dance Studios, Inc., “that NDC 2006 will be our biggest competition ever since we’re up nationwide 30% in new students and 25% in overall enrollments. This is the best year we’ve ever had in all aspects of the business.”
Fred Astaire Dance Studios are located throughout the United States. Visit Fred Astaire Dance Studios for more information.