The Big Apple Ballroom faculty is exclusively composed of full-time, career dance professionals. We do not hire hobbyists. When you take the floor here, you are learning from artists who have dedicated their lives to mastering this craft.
Meet The Pros
Current competitors. Former champions. Lifelong educators.
Instruction at the Highest Level.
Michael Choi
Co-Founder
Michael began his professional career in New York working with icons of early Swing and American social dancing. He has competed professionally nationally and internationally, becoming a finalist in Rising Star Ballroom and Classic Showdance, and winning many Open Professional Smooth competitions. As a teacher, he has coached actors like Nicole Kidman, and has led pro-am students to US Championship and Best of the Best titles.
Vanda Polakova
Co-Founder / Artistic Director
Vanda began dancing in Bratislava, Slovakia at the age of 9 where she became a two-time Amateur Latin Champion. As a Rhythm dancer, she is a 2-time World, U.S., and Ohio Star Ball finalist. Well known for her fiery, authentic personality, Vanda is also a certified dance teacher with the USISTD/AIDA and the winner of the Mirror Ball Trophy on 'Let's Dance!', the Slovak edition of Dancing With the Stars.
Ema
Manager
Ema's dance journey began at age four with ballet, taking the stage of the Slovak National Theatre by age 12. Transitioning to ballroom, she became a multiple-time champion representing Taiwan internationally. Ema is a significant advocate within the Integrative Dance community and serves as a judge in World and European Championships. She is also an acclaimed designer of ballroom dance attire.
Sophie
Movement & Dance Coach
With over 20 years of experience, Sophie Cazeneuve is a skilled instructor and performer specializing in West Coast Swing, Salsa, and Ballroom. Based in NYC, she is passionate about helping dancers achieve their goals, from performance to social dancing, combining her dance teaching with a deep commitment to movement and wellness.
Sasha
Professional Dancer
Sasha started her dance journey at 5 years old in Ukraine. She moved to New York at 19 to pursue her career in International Standard. Sasha has competed in numerous national-level competitions, reaching the finals of major Amateur events. She has extensive experience working with youth, the elderly, and those with special needs, making dancing accessible to all.
Enxhi
Professional Dancer
Born in Albania, Enxhi fell in love with Ballroom dancing at age twelve. Earning her certification, she began teaching students of all ages—from young children to wedding couples and competitive athletes. A Rising Star US and Open to the World Finalist in Professional Ballroom, she continues to share her passion for dance with students across all levels and abilities.
Ready to meet your instructor?
We carefully select which professional you will work with during your mandatory Introductory Lesson based on your reported goals.