Meet the Dance Passion Staff and Learn Their Stories
Ivan
Founder
Dance Instructor
Ivan began dancing as a child in Bulgaria to overcome shyness. It worked! What started as a way to build confidence quickly grew into a lifelong passion. Over the years, dance became more than a skill—it became his way of connecting with people and bringing joy into their lives.
After moving to the United States and becoming an American citizen, Ivan made a bold choice: leaving behind a career in technology to follow his true calling. With over 35 years of dance experience, he has taught, performed, and inspired students across the globe. His greatest reward, however, is seeing how dance transforms the lives of his students—helping them gain confidence, build community, and discover happiness.
As the founder of Dance Passion Studio in Saint Petersburg, Ivan’s vision is simple: to make dance accessible, welcoming, and life-changing for adults of all ages. Under his leadership, the studio has become a space where beginners feel supported, experienced dancers are challenged, and everyone is encouraged to grow while having fun.
For Ivan, Dance Passion is more than a studio—it’s the shortest path to happiness.
Kate
Choreographer
Dance Instructor
Kate is a talented dancer with training in a variety of styles, from ballet and contemporary to salsa and bachata! She started ballet at age 3, and began training in the Vaganova Ballet method while dancing with the Madison Ballet Company. When she moved to Florida in 2017, she began training in modern contemporary styles and jazz. While attending the University of Florida, she discovered a love of Latin social dancing, focusing on LA Salsa, Casino Rueda Salsa, Dominican Bachata, and Modern Bachata. She is the proud founder of AscenDance Salsa Company, where she teaches guest workshops and choreographs performances for the members.
She has taught workshops at various studios across Florida and has performed at various festivals and congresses. She is a regular in the Latin dance scene, so if you go dancing, you’ll probably see her! Kate focuses on the technique, etiquette, and safety of partner dancing, and she believes that dance should be a space for everyone to learn and have fun!
Our Mission:
When Ivan first founded Dance Passion he wanted to give people a place to dance that made them feel like they were at home. He wanted them to feel completely comfortable and safe as they started learning how to dance. That way if they messed up, they know that they were still safe and supported by the staff and other students. But while being comfortable he also wanted the experience to be fun. That way everyone was smiling and laughing and enjoying every minute that they were there. As many of our students will tell you, this place really has become a second home for them. They are able to escape the craziness of everyday life and really shine as their true selves here. All while learning to dance and laughing and having an amazing time.
He also wanted to have a studio that felt like one big happy family. And in this family, he wanted to have people of every background and from every walk of life. That way everyone could shine as exactly who they are, while still sharing the wonderful passion of dance! As you walk in the door everyone says hello and makes you feel like part of the Dance Passion Family! Your dance journey is super personalized to who you are as an individual and you learn the things that will make you feel as if you are a shining star! That way, no matter where you fit into the family, there is always a spot just for you.
Free Dance Teacher Training Classes:
At Dance Passion, our enthusiasm for dance drives us to constantly seek out talented instructors. We’re on the lookout for passionate individuals, both men and women, who share our love for dance. Our studio regularly conducts Dance Teacher Training Classes to identify and nurture bright and aspiring teachers. The upcoming round of our Training Class is just around the corner, and the exciting news is that no prior experience is required. If you possess the passion and eagerness to dance every day, we are ready to provide the training you need!
Our training program starts by covering the fundamentals of dance, such as frame, posture, and basic steps. It then progressively builds on this foundation, ensuring that you never feel overwhelmed. We place a strong emphasis on teaching techniques, equipping you not only with dance skills but also with the ability to convey them in a fun, easy, and engaging manner. Our goal is to make sure everyone has a great time while learning.
If you’re intrigued about joining our dynamic and exciting team, simply give us a call at (727) 304-5904. We can’t wait to share the joy of dancing with you soon!