If you’ve been around the dance world for more than five minutes, you’ve heard the name Blackpool Dance Festival—and if you haven’t, well… welcome to the big leagues. Founded in 1920, Blackpool isn’t just another competition. It’s the competition. The one dancers whisper about, train for, dream about. Sometimes called The Blackpool, Blackpool Festival, or Blackpool Championships, it stands as the oldest and most prestigious dance event on the planet. And here’s the thing…You

Even the most passionate dancers hit a wall. The key isn’t avoiding it—it’s learning how to move through it. Uffff… today I’m feeling some burnout. You know what I mean. I’ve got my list of “Dan’s Things To Do,” and for some reason, staring at that list for an excessive amount of time doesn’t seem to get anything done. I even tried asking the Universe to complete my tasks for me… no luck. By the way—Universe… hellooooo? I’m still waiting on that million dollars.(Come on… I kn

Not long ago, a student walked into the studio, shook their head, and said,“Dan… last week I felt like Fred Astaire. Today I feel like I’m wearing two different shoes.” We both had a good laugh, but beneath the humor was a very real concern that many dancers experience. How is it possible to feel so confident one week and so unsure the next? How can progress feel so clear one day — and completely confusing the next? After years of teaching, competing, and observing dancers at

Hanging up their competitive dance shoes—but not their passion for the art— Igor Mikushov and Valeriia Belozerova officially closed a remarkable chapter in the competitive arena. As United States Finalists in the International Ballroom Division, Igor and Valeriia delivered elegance, power, and artistry at the very highest level. It was both an honor and a true privilege for all of us to witness their final competitive performance at this year’s Ohio Star Ball —a dance fille

Setting Yourself Up for Success in 2026 Okay… you’re ready to set your New Year’s goals. Maybe you’re thinking 2026 is going to be different. You’re going to win your division. Become the next champion. Move up to the next level. You’re declaring your vision to your partner, your friends, your coach, your family—letting everyone know you’re climbing the ladder of dance success. This is your year. Your moment, dagnabit! (A more polite way of saying damn it .) Now that you

Happy Thanksgiving weekend, everyone! This is an important time in America—a moment to celebrate the early beginnings of a nation, and the one day a year when many of us pause long enough to intentionally acknowledge what we’re grateful for. We go around the table, we say it out loud, we list blessings big and small. And honestly, isn’t that something we should be doing every morning when we wake up? Some years it may feel like your list of blessings is a little short. But i

This has always been my favorite quote — and it still drives me today. I’ve followed this advice throughout my entire career, and I continue to live by it. Yes, even now, With years of experience behind me, I’m still energized by the work and loving every minute. So, when you catch yourself saying you’re not ready — not ready to step onto that competition floor, to turn professional, to open that dance studio, or to start until you lose those extra ten pounds — stop right th

Let’s cut right to the chase — standing and dancing in front of a panel of judges is no easy feat. After all, they’re called judges...

"From my lap to the dance floor—writing stories with a little help today." A friend of mine recently asked, “Do you use A.I. when you...

Picture this: You’ve polished your entry, braved the registration form, and submitted your work with hopeful anticipation—only to...

Ever watched a dance competition and thought, “Pfft, I could totally pick the winner”? Well, buckle up, armchair adjudicator—because...

Oh, the Drama (and Importance) of the Rules! 🎭 Reading through the NDCA rules and regulations for youth competitors might feel a bit...

The Advantages and Drawbacks of using a Mirror During Ballroom Dance Practice Ballroom dancing , a beautiful and complex art form,...

NICK & VICTORIA It’s never easy to step away from the dance floor—especially when it’s been the very heartbeat of who you are. For Nick...

Chewy hoping for a Doggy Dance Division With the month of May wrapping up (already? Who’s been fast-forwarding the calendar again?!), I...

Helping a child cope with a bad result, whether it’s a poor grade, sports performance, or any other type of setback, can be challenging...

The ingredients needed to become a Champion. I’ve been struggling with writing this , as the last thing I want is to come across as...

As I step into this season of growth and opportunity, I’ve been taking time to reflect—usually during a walk or a hike. These moments...

When Ken and Barbie touched down in London, it wasn’t just Heathrow that lit up — the entire city seemed to shimmer in anticipation....

Start Spreading the News! J ust returned from the New York Dance Festival at the Hilton in Midtown Manhattan! As you can see from my...