ARISMEL NAYA

- Studio Owner -

Hi and welcome!
I’m Arismel Naya, a professional dancer, teacher, and coach, and I’m so excited to share our dream with you at Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Palm Harbor.

Dance has always been a part of who I am. From my earliest memories, it has shaped my life, and sharing it with others brings me so much joy. I love not only performing, but also teaching and creating choreography, and discovering the many ways dance can inspire, connect, and transform people. Alongside dance, I’m also a chemical engineer and a deep lover of culture, artistry, and music in all their forms.

My journey began in Cuba, where I was born, and continued in Spain, where I grew up and started ballroom dancing at the age of seven. I fell in love with Ballroom International Style (Standard & Latin) and spent many years immersed in the beauty and discipline of the competitive dance world.

When I started university, I took a break from competitions but never stopped dancing. It was during this time that I partnered with Roger Romero, and together we began exploring new dance styles, including Jazz and Commercial dance. This journey led to opportunities in television, including Dancing With the Stars (Spain) and The Dancer, as well as creating our own dance company, StarDance. I also performed at some of Europe’s most renowned theme parks, including PortAventura World and Ferrari Land, and had the chance to participate in music videos and various events.

In May 2022, we moved to the United States and joined Fred Astaire Dance Studios, where I discovered a deep love for Ballroom American Style (Rhythm & Smooth). I also returned to competing, this time in American Rhythm, which brought me so much joy and allowed me to make new friends while exploring cities and states across the country—making the dance journey even more exciting and fun!

 

Finally, in February 2026, together with Roger, we opened our own studio, Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Palm Harbor. A new adventure begins, and we couldn’t be more excited. It is truly a dream come true, and we can’t wait to share our passion for dance with the community and be part of your journey.

Step by step, I continue building my career in the U.S., sharing my love for dance, and helping students discover the joy, freedom, and confidence it can bring. Every day reminds me why I started dancing in the first place: to connect with yourself and find ways to express your inner personality to the fullest.

 

Achievements

  • U.S. National Rising Star American Rhythm Champion
  • NDCA Premier National Ranking Open Professional American Rhythm Champion
  • 2nd Place – U.S. Mambo Championships
  • Finalist – Blackpool Dance Festival
  • National & World Fred Astaire Dance Studios Rising Star Champion
  • Finalist – Fred Astaire Dance Studios Open Professional
  • Rising Star American Rhythm Champion at Ohio Star Ball, Emerald Ball, Embassy Dance Championship, and many more