MEET THE TEAM
Learn more about the passionate professionals who help make our studio a joyful and welcoming place to dance!
Igor Afonkin
Owner
If you could create a new dance style, what would you name it and what would it look like?
I’d like to create both a morning and evening dance routine: one that energizes and uplifts you in the morning, and another that helps calm your mind and body in the evening.
What’s the strangest place you’ve ever practiced your dance moves?
There’s hardly a place left where I haven’t practiced my moves.
What does dance mean to you on a personal level?
Dancing is my personal bridge to a happy place where you’re free to be yourself, and all the little worries fade away. It’s a simple way to feel truly happy.
What’s the most unexpected thing you’ve learned on your dance journey?
As I have grown from a young little girl dancing into an adult dancer - the most unexpected thing I have learned is how healing dancing is. As a child and now an adult it has allowed me to express in a way that is celebrated. I always can find a dance that will help me get through anything I may be going through (both good and bad). It definitely is my form of therapy.
If you had to choose a song to represent your dance style, but it was a totally ridiculous song, what would it be?
“Creep” by Radiohead. My dance style is not your traditional ballroom style. I grew up learning all forms of dance - from jazz to hip-hop and everything in- between. I now incorporate all these styles in my ballroom. Love it or hate it… It’s me! :)
How has dance changed your life or the way you see the world?
Dancing has changed how I view the world. I see dancing as a universal language. If you look at all cultures you will find that they all dance in some form and when they dance it brings the community together. I know no matter where I go in the world I can connect to others through the art of dance.
Meghan Afonkin
Owner
Gleb Bannikov
Dance Instructor
1. How did your passion for dance begin, and who or what influenced you the most?
My passion for dance began as therapy for back issues, but it quickly became a lifelong love and my true form of artistic expression.
2. How do you approach teaching young dancers, and what methods do you use to keep them motivated?
I balance discipline and inspiration, helping dancers build technique while connecting emotionally and finding joy in the process.
3. How would you describe your dance style in three words, and why?
Expressive — because for me, dance is storytelling. Every movement should speak to the audience and evoke emotion. Precise — because I believe in clean technique and attention to detail; structure is what allows freedom. Passionate — because I dance with my whole heart. Passion is what drives me, and I think audiences can feel that energy.
Johanna Engebretson
Dance Instructor
What's your go-to dance move when no one is watching?
The entire Jungle Love music video.
If you were a dance shoe, what type would you be and why? (Bonus points for shoe puns!)
A tap shoe because you can hear me coming from a mile away. Tappin’ = Yappin’
If you could share one life lesson through dance, what would it be?
Don’t take yourself too seriously. Life's too short to not have fun and move your body in groovy ways.
If you could dance with any fictional character, who would it be and why?
Wonder Woman because she’s powerful and never gives up.
What’s your most embarrassing dance moment that you can laugh about now?
Dancing in tights when I was in a modern dance group in college.
If your life were a dance movie, what would be the title and the theme song?
Title: “New Adventures“ Theme Song: “Hold On I'm Coming” by Sam & Dave
What inspires you to keep dancing and sharing that passion with others?
Watching how happy people are when they dance is my inspiration. I also keep doing it for the exercise.