Nicholas has been Ballroom Dancing for over 20 years. He was a teacher, a manager and a competitor. He and his partner in dance and life, Melinda, competed professionally in American Smooth, American Rhythm and Open Cabaret. They retired professionally as Fred Astaire National Finalists. In addition to running the studio, Nicholas also produces Ballroom Dance shows and competitions around the United States.
Which dances do you love the most?
All the American Smooth dances…in my opinion they have the biggest range of dynamics and emotional range. And Salsa…there is simply no other dance that is more fun to dance socially!
What is the all-time best “Dance” Movie?
It’s a tie between Strictly Ballroom and Happy Feet. They are both fun examples of challenging the status-quo and the “underdog triumphs in the end”. The former because it comes across as a tongue-in-cheek satire of the Ballroom Dancing World, but actually it is much closer to reality. And the latter because it is my daughter’s and my favorite movie to watch together!
What is the best thing about your hometown?
Every September they celebrate the “Defeat of Jesse James”. The whole town reenacts the infamous outlaw’s failed bank raid of 1876. Gunfights, parades, carnival rides and funnel cakes…the best of small town festivals!
Who is your favorite dancer?
Um…Fred Astaire! My biases aside…he was the greatest multi-talented dancer of his generation of truly renowned dancers. His precision and pursuit of dance perfection is legendary!
Favorite weekend binge-watch guilty pleasure?
The X-Files…the truth is out there!
What do you love most about Ballroom Dancing?
I love the mixture of disciplines it involves. The artistry of music and expression, the science of motion and balance, and the synchronicity of dancing in harmony with your partner…especially if that partner is the love or your life!
What is the most rewarding part of your career?
I love to watch how students change and grow along their dance journey. The most rewarding thing is seeing a student dancing…and actually enjoying dancing…when only 3 months ago they would have sworn they had 2 “left” feet.
Piece of advice for students/new students?
Dance as much as you can, while you can…sooner or later you won’t be able to.
