“Ballroom dancing is that perfect combination of physical activity, social interaction and mental stimulation, and it can bring so much to your life,” explains Briana Ustymovych. “It’s a great workout, has documented physical and mental health benefits. can enhance your social life and self-confidence, reduces stress and depression, promotes relaxation, is a wonderful outlet for self-expression and creativity, and it’s FUN!!
Ustymovych owns the Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Paradise Valley (FredAstaire.com/Paradise-Valley) along with her husband, Igor. The location first opened in 2007, and the couple purchased it four years ago.
Dance as always part of their lives.
“We both have danced since our youth,” Ustymovych explains, saying she began dancing at age 3. “Our parents believed that it was important for us to have connections to the arts and it stuck with us through adulthood.”
The pair met 12 years ago in San Diego through dancing. Since then, the now husband-and-wife team has competed throughout the United States.
“Igor is internationally trained since age 4 and has many titles from various prestigious competitions nationally and internationally,” Ustymovych shares.
Now, they also share their love for the practice through the studio.
“At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we provide instruction in both International and American Ballroom styles, and then some!,” she explains. “And as a Fred Astaire dance student, you can choose which dance style you’d like to learn first based on your individual dance goals and what’s most appealing to you. For example, students interested in high-energy lessons for improved physical health would likely choose a different style of dance than couples looking for an elegant first dance for their wedding. No matter your age, your ability level or whether you’re planning to take lessons with a partner or on your own—you’ve come to the right place.”
In addition to ballroom dance, the location also offers Country Western lessons; dance camps, private lessons and more for kids; and wedding lessons.
Those interested in lessons can participate in private lessons, group classes and practice parties.
Private lessons provide specialized and personalized attention.
Group classes complement the private lessons, and are “where patterns, technique, and style are learned.” They also enable students to meet others with similar dancing goals.
Finally, the practice parties are fun events where students can put their new moves to work in a relaxed social setting. The lights are turned down, the music is turned up, and everyone gets to enjoy time dancing with different people.
“Ballroom dance is a fun activity for everyone, from children to senior citizens, which is another reason it’s such an effective form of exercise,” Ustymovych says. “At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we work with students of all age groups, physical abilities and skill levels—and will create a custom dance program that’s comfortable yet challenging, and will help you attain your dance AND exercise goals.”
Why does the couple love what they do?
“We enrich people’s lives through dancing,” they say.
