WHYM Dance + Movement + More

WHYM Dance + Movement + More teaches ballroom and Latin dance in both American and International styles. The studio is led by Ilia Volokh, founder and lead instructor, who brings over 30 years of dancing, teaching and performing in the United States and Russia. Ilia trained formally in ballet and holds a Master of Dance Education degree from Moscow's Institute of Theater Arts. He teaches all ballroom and Latin dance styles.

The teaching team includes Renata Nitscheova-Knaus, who has more than 20 years of teaching experience and 10+ years of competition experience. Renata started ballroom dancing at age 12 in the Czech Republic and began competing at the amateur level at age 15 in Latin and Standard styles. After moving to Cleveland in 1999, she focused on teaching and learning rhythm and smooth styles, competing in the American smooth professional division and pro/am events. Thomas Kindt began his ballroom career in 2006 and has since competed all over the country and twice outside of it, with professional competition in American Smooth style. He works with students on both competing and performing. Yulia Frid teaches group and private ballroom dance classes, working with both kids and adults. She has been dancing since childhood in Russia and began teaching and performing professionally in 2007, specialising in Salsa, American Rhythm and Smooth.

The studio emphasises connection over steps: "We teach you how to dance, not just dance steps. The patterns we teach will allow you to practice your connection with your partner." Private lessons are scheduled by appointment. Group dance classes run every other Friday from 7 to 10 PM, combining a class (7–8 PM, $20) with a social dance party (8–10 PM, $20). Classes are open to dancers of all levels. The studio also hosts showcases, competitions, exhibitions and special events, and runs Latin workshops.

The main studio space is 2,200 square feet with a cushioned hardwood floor, mirrors, bright colours and spot lights. A second ballroom can serve as a dinner and bar area. The lobby includes a coat room and changing room. Audio equipment is provided. The studio is available for private and group lessons, and can host private and group events, with optional professional ballroom performances for guests.

Group classes run every other Friday from 7–8 PM ($20), followed by a social dance party from 8–10 PM ($20). Classes are open to all levels. Private lessons are available by appointment. The studio has a cushioned hardwood floor, mirrors, and bright lighting suited to ballroom dancing.

Ilia Volokh (founder, lead instructor) brings 30+ years of dancing, teaching and performing, with formal ballet training and a Master of Dance Education from Moscow's Institute of Theater Arts. Renata Nitscheova-Knaus has 20+ years of teaching and 10+ years of competition experience in Latin, Standard, rhythm and smooth. Thomas Kindt has competed professionally in American Smooth and works with students on competition and performance. Yulia Frid teaches group and private classes and specialises in Salsa, American Rhythm and Smooth.

Group classes are open to dancers of all levels.