- International Dance Council Member
- Studio Owner
- With Fred Astaire Dance Studios since 1992
BIO
Darius Mosteika began dancing with Jolanta in 1986 and immigrated from Lithuania to the United States in 1992. They quickly rose to prominence, consistently ranking among the top two couples in the United States National Professional Standard Dance Championships until their retirement from competitive dancing in 2000.
During their competitive career, Darius and Jolanta were 7-time undefeated Fred Astaire Professional International Standard Dance Champions and proudly represented the United States at the World Professional Standard Dance Championships from 1995 through 2000. Their numerous titles include the 1998 North American Professional Standard Championship, the 1995 Rising Star Championship at the prestigious International Championships in London, England, and championship victories at every major dancesport competition across the United States.
Widely admired for their artistry and technical excellence, the Mosteikas captivated audiences with their celebrated performances at the Ohio Star Ball, winning the Show Dance Division in both 1998 and 1999. These performances were nationally televised on PBS, further cementing their reputation as exceptional performers and ambassadors for ballroom dance.
Following their retirement from competitive dancing, Darius and Jolanta transitioned their passion and expertise into coaching, choreography, adjudication, and dance education. They have dedicated themselves to mentoring dancers of all levels, inspiring excellence through their knowledge, artistry, and commitment to the highest standards of the profession.
In addition to his work in the performing arts, Darius serves as an advisor to the board of Youth and Community Dance Initiative, a 501 (c) 3 organization, as well as is the director and producer of the annual fundraising show, Dance Among the Stars, benefiting New York City public schools. Under his leadership, the event combines high-caliber performances with philanthropy, engaging community leaders, dancers, artists, and supporters to raise funds that expand access to arts education and educational programs for thousands of students. His role encompasses artistic direction, event production, strategic planning, and coordination of performers and partners, reflecting his commitment to using the arts as a vehicle for community impact and educational opportunity.
Besides his achievements on the dance floor, Darius holds a master’s degree in economics, reflecting his dedication to excellence both academically and professionally. Darius and Jolanta are the proud parents of two children, Leila and Andrew, and continue to contribute to the growth and development of the international ballroom dance community through their leadership, mentorship, and enduring passion for the art of dance.
ACHIEVEMENTS
- 7-times undefeated Fred Astaire Professional international Standard Dance Champion
- United States representative to the World Professional Standard Dance Championships (1993- 2000)
- Semifinalist at the World Professional Standard Dance Championships (1993-2000)
- North American Professional Standard Dance Champion
- Professional Rising Star Standard Dance Champion at the prestigious International Dancesport Championships annually held in London, England (1995)
- Winner of all major dancesport championships in the Professional Standard Dance division across the United States
- 5-time World Pro-Am Champion in the American Style Smooth
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
- American Style Smooth
- American Style Rhythm
- International Style Latin
- International Style Standard
- Event Management-Planning, Promoting, and Producing
- Fundraising and Community Engagement