Guest Coaches
The World’s Best Dancers and Coaches, in Our Studio!
You come to the Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Tarrytown for the best in dance instruction. We’re not shy about saying that, because we believe it and we deliver it. And we continue to work hard to give you more and better opportunities to expand your dance horizons.
So we encourage you to get in touch with us right away and book your time for special coaching and group lessons at the studio this month!
Stay tuned for dates and times!
Taliat Tarsinov
Next Visit – TBA
Taliat has been one of the most sought-after coaches and choreographers in the United States for both amateurs and professionals. He has coached many national champions in all styles of dance sport. He is best known for his innovative choreography, which he enjoys creating for all levels of dancers. Taliat enjoys custom tailoring both technique and style to the individual dancer
Ilya Ifraimov
Next Visit – May 31
Ilya is a World Master Professional Latin Champion and Fred Astaire National International Latin Champion. He coaches and choreographs in all levels and styles. A World Class Adjudicator and choreographer, he has been a member of the Fred Astaire National Dance Council since 2005 and has collaborated in the creation of the International Latin Syllabus
Sergei Shapoval
Next Visit – April 29
Sergei Shapoval began dancing at the age of 8 in the Ukraine and represented his country at the 1993 International Festival of Culture in France, where Ukraine took first place. Sergei has appeared on Ukrainian regional & national TV, & formerly competed as an amateur dancer in International Latin and Standard in Germany, Italy, Czech Republic, Poland & Russia. In 2001 Sergei was invited to teach in the US & that same year he received a full Scholarship as one of the original members of Olympic Hopefuls Dance Program.
With 27 years of dance experience — 20 of those as a dance teacher as well as a competitor — Sergei believes that learning to dance provides valuable benefits in many areas of life!
Eduard Apolonov
Next Visit – June 24
Eddie is a UK Rising Star Finalist and USA Rising Star Champion. He specializes in all areas of International Latin, Standard, American Smooth, American Rhythm, as well as choreography for showcases, solos, and novelties. Eddie is choreography specialist on Open Routines and coaches top competitive couples in the country
Tony Dovolani
Next Visit – TBA
Tony Dovolani was born in Prishtina, Kosova and began folk dancing at age three. He was 15 years old when he and his family moved to the United States. At age 17, he began ballroom lessons at a Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Connecticut and knew he had found his passion. Six months later, he began working as a FADS Dance Instructor, and he has been a strong and successful competitor in the professional ballroom dancing world ever since.
In 2006, Tony joined ABC’s Dancing with the Stars for their second season, and quickly became a fan favorite with his stellar choreography, elegance and bright smile. He spent 21 consecutive seasons on the show; Tony and his dance partner Melissa Rycroft were the Season 15 “Dancing with the Stars: All-Stars” Mirror Ball Trophy Champions. Tony’s professional body of work is impressive.
Tony is coaching all Styles of Dance, helping dancers in Mental & Physical Competitive Development
Stephen Knight
Next Visit – TBA
Stephen is one of the busiest men in the industry. As a Regional Franchise Director for the Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ Wisconsin Region, an NDCA Adjudicator, a Coach, Choreographer, and the Co-National Dance Director for Fred Astaire Dance Studios, his dance card is almost always full. Stephen and his dance partner, Rae Josephs, were 3-Time United States American Rhythm Finalists, and 6-Time undefeated Fred Astaire American Rhythm Champions. Stephen is also responsible for creating a large portion of the Fred Astaire Dance Studios Silver Syllabus. He is well-known for his choreography for Open Routines, Solos, Showcases, and Novelties.