Every year, more and more dance studios are opening in the United States. After a short recession associated with the pandemic, new growth began, and already in 2022, the number of studios exceeded 68 thousand. And a significant part of this boom is ballroom dancing.

Ballroom dancing is not just repeating certain steps to music; it is a real art that combines grace, elegance, and physical endurance. The history of ballroom dancing goes back centuries, and it still continues to delight people all around the world.

And there is nothing more inspiring for those who have just started training or are planning to attend their first class than the example of dancers who were able to make their path from scratch to the highest echelon. Andrei Cutasevschi and Anna Vasina, who are champions of the UK Open International Dance Festival, vice-champions of the Blackpool Dance Festival, finalists of the WDC World Open, champions of the USA Ultimate Team Match, spoke about their path to success and also gave recommendations to beginner dancers.

History and Specialty of Ballroom Dancing

Ballroom dancing originates from royal balls and palace evenings. Later, in the 20s of the twentieth century, in England, under the Imperial Society of Dance Teachers, a special Council for Ballroom Dancing arose, where all dances known at that time were standardised: waltz, fast and slow foxtrots, tango. In the 1930s-1950s, five Latin American dances were added to the number of standard ballroom dances (Rumba, Samba, Jive, Paso Doble, Cha-cha-cha). Today, ballroom dance (also called DanceSport) is a competitive sport, as well as an art form.

The Story of Andrei Cutasevschi and Anna Vasina

An example of what heights can be achieved in ballroom dancing is the success of the duet of Andrei Cutasevschi and Anna Vasina, one of the brightest stars of the modern dance scene.

Their joint creative journey started in 2019. Since then, they have become not only champions but also the embodiment of determination, artistry, and professionalism in ballroom dancing.

This duet from Ukraine became one more confirmation that talent and passion for art can overcome any difficulties. Andrei, who grew up in the unrecognized region of Moldova (Transnistria), had to move to Ukraine on his own at the age of 16 to follow his big dream. He not only achieved outstanding success in his studies, including medicine, but also became a multiple champion in ballroom dancing. He received the status of vice-world champion, European and world champion, vice-champion and champion of Ukraine.

Anna also faced several life changes when she moved from Donetsk to Kyiv as a child and then from Ukraine to Poland and to the United States due to a full-scale invasion. A fragile but ambitious girl, she always found the strength to overcome difficulties. Her multifaceted talent blossomed not only in dance but also in the visual arts. She went from a simple girl who loved to dance, draw, and do handicrafts to a master of sports in Ukraine and vice-champion of Europe, an ambassador of famous brands, such as Tania International Design, International Dance Shoes, and NY Fashion.

Under the guidance of respected coaches Maksym Bulaniy and Kateryna Spasitel, Andrei and Anna created their own style, combining wide, smooth movements with infectious drive and real drama. Their approach to dancing is not only highly technical but also possesses a deep artistry that captures the attention of judges and spectators. Their techniques and constant striving to incorporate novel steps and choreography have improved DanceSport overall. This artistry and some of their signature themes, such as pop, leg hooks, and wide and expansive gestures, have filtered down to other competitors in this sport, many of whom now incorporate their steps and choreographic style when they compete, thus incrementally evolving the art form further.

They have won prizes in competitions in Europe and the USA and have already created a name for themselves in the dance niche. So, in September 2023, they took first place at the US Dance Championships in Orlando (Florida).

Recommendations for Beginners from World Champions

The dancers themselves regularly share their experiences and recommend everyone to try their abilities in ballroom dancing. They pay extra attention to the fact that ballroom dancing is not only a sport but also an art of self-expression and interaction. For beginners, Andrei and Anna recommend not being afraid to start, overcoming difficulties, and enjoying each movement.

The story of Andrei Cutasevschi and Anna Vasina proves that real talent, sensuality, and a constant desire for excellence permit the achievement of any goals. They inspire viewers and aspiring dancers to find a place for beauty in their lives.

About Author

One notable author who writes about dance is Deborah Jowitt. Jowitt is a renowned dance critic and author known for her insightful commentary on various forms of dance, ranging from classical ballet to contemporary dance. Her writings often delve deep into the cultural, historical, and artistic dimensions of dance, offering readers a rich understanding of its significance and evolution.

Published by: Aly Cinco