Your trainers
Want to dance with the professionals from TV? This is now possible from July 31 to August 3, when the fourth edition of the EURO DANCE FESTIVAL in the Freiburg-Edition takes place at the Ballhaus.
There will be 40 trainers, including some professionals from the show "Let's Dance".
You can dance along in 120 workshops. Mainly standard and Latin American dances are taught. But West Coast Swing, Tango Argentino, Salsa, Discofox and much more are also on offer.
EURO DANCE FESTIVAL
Freiburg Edition 2025
These are our trainers. More coming soon!
The "Million Moves Man" of the salsa world
Super Mario is an icon of the international salsa scene. With his unmistakable style, precise leadership and musical sensitivity, he inspires dancers worldwide. He is known for creative combinations that are both technically demanding and pleasantly danceable - which has earned him the nickname "Million Moves Man".
Erfolge:
- Triple award-winning "Best Teacher in Great Britain" (UK Congress Awards)
- One of the most traveled salsa trainers worldwide
- Lessons & shows in over 120 countries
- In demand as a lecturer at congresses in London, Tokyo, Sydney and beyond
Information about the workshops:
Super Mario combines clear technique with humor and lightness in his classes. His workshops are lively, inspiring and offer dancers of all levels an enormous variety of figures - always with a smile and a wink.
Line dancing with heart, humor & aha effect
Sebastian Buttgereit is a passionate dance teacher - and has dedicated himself entirely to line dancing. What once began by chance is now an integral part of his life and his mission: to connect people with fun, music and movement. Clear choreographies, good vibes and a genuine understanding of dancing are his focus.
Erfolge:
- In demand as a line dance trainer at national festivals
- Teaches with a clear methodology and lively didactics
- Known for his humor, his empathy and his very own style
Information about the workshops:
Sebastian's classes are more than just counting and joining in - they are experiences full of energy, musical feeling and little surprises. He not only teaches steps, but also the joy of dancing and the desire to try things out. Those who dance with him learn, laugh and often discover new sides to themselves - with aha moments and good humor guaranteed.
Precision meets passion
Tatiana Müller is a permanent fixture on the international dance scene. Born in Kiev, she started her impressive dance career at the age of just 9 and reached the highest amateur class - the S class - at the age of 15. Today, she is a professional dancer, certified dance sports trainer, DOSB A-trainer and S-class judge in standard and Latin.
Erfolge:
Hessian national champion and Southern German runner-up in the 10 dances, finalist in the Russian professional 10-dance championship as well as the Ukrainian and German professional championships in the freestyle standard. She has also impressed internationally - including as a finalist in the Rising Star category at the prestigious UK Open.
Information about the workshops:
In her workshops, Tatiana inspires with her technical know-how, razor-sharp precision and infectious passion. She knows like no other how to impart her knowledge in a practical and motivating way - ideal for anyone who wants to develop their dance skills.
Expression, technique & show power
Steeve Gaudet and Marioara Cheptene are among the most successful French show dance professionals. Their careers are international: Gaudet started out in France in 2002, while Cheptene - a three-time world champion - is also a professional coach trained in areas such as Ericksonian hypnosis and NLP. Together they inspire with a unique combination of experience, elegance and stage presence.
Erfolge:
- World Champion ShowDance Standard 2018 in Riga
- Marioara: Triple world champion
- Over 200 shows worldwide - from TV productions to international galas
Information about the workshops:
In their workshops, you can expect exciting insights into the standard dances, combined with emotional expression and technical depth. Gaudet & Cheptene teach with dedication, variety and an unmistakable flair for combining show and dance - perfect for anyone who wants to surpass themselves.
Elegance, precision & masterclass
Heiko Kleibrink is one of Germany's most successful professional coaches: an eight-time German Champion, a 26-time Grand Prix winner, and a fixture on the German dance scene. At his side is Feodora Khan, one of Germany's most successful professional dance couple. She is a three-time German Champion in the Standard section and a two-time German Champion in the Freestyle Standard section.
Erfolge:
– Heiko: 8-time German Champion, 26-time Grand Prix winner
– Feodora: 3-time German Champion Standard, 2-time German Champion Freestyle Standard
– Together: one of Germany’s most renowned dance couples
Information about the workshops:
As a power duo, Heiko & Feodora embody masterful skill, dance precision, and passionate communication. Their workshops are characterized by technical depth, clear structure, and an inspiring atmosphere – ideal for anyone who wants to learn and develop at the highest level.
Show power & world class
Patricija and Alexandru Ionel have been dancing together since 2019 – both on the competition floor and in their personal lives. They have become known to a wide audience since their debut on "Let's Dance" in 2021. In addition to their TV presence, they impress as world-class dancers, members of the national team, and creative personalities: Alexandru is a dentist and founder of "DancingDentist," while Patricija is a successful fashion designer with her label "Bellatricia Refined."
Erfolge:
– Vice World Champion in Showdance Standard 2021
– World Champion in Showdance Standard 2022
– Vice World Champion again in 2023
– Finalists at numerous world championships
– Members of the national squad of the German Dance Sport Association
Information about the workshops:
In their workshops, show fireworks and technical brilliance merge into a thrilling experience. Alexandru & Patricija inspire with modern methods, clear instruction, and their unmistakable energy – perfect for anyone who wants to be inspired and moved by dance.
Expression, Excellence & Latin Power
Melissa Ortiz-Gomez began classical ballet and flamenco at an early age before switching to competitive ballroom and Latin at the age of twelve. After graduating from high school, she moved to Madrid to pursue her career. She has been performing professionally since 2008 and is one of Germany's most well-known Latin dancers. She became known to a wide audience through her performances on "Let's Dance" – in 2013, she won the show with Manuel Cortez.
Erfolge:
– 2-time German Champion Freestyle Latin (2011 & 2012)
– 5th place in the German Latin rankings (2011)
– Semi-finalist of the 2021 Latin World Championships
– Finalist of national and international championships
– Winner of “Let's Dance” 2013
Information about the workshops:
In her classes, Melissa combines technical precision with expressive dance style and passion. Her workshops are a highlight for anyone who wants to deepen their Latin dance skills and benefit from real stage experience.
Competence, passion & Latin excellence
Manuela Faller hails from Freiburg's rich dance scene and has been a major figure in German Latin dance for years. After a successful amateur career, she transitioned to the professional ranks early on and was mentored by international stars such as Espen Salberg, Donnie Burns, and Walter Laird. She represented Germany at European and World Championships, regularly reaching the finals.
Erfolge:
– Finalist in international professional tournaments
– Multiple winner of the German Open Championships (GOC), including in the Rising Stars category
– Coach of successful couples such as Anton Skuratov & Alena Uehlin (European Championship 10 Dances) and Daniel Schmuck & Veronika Obholz (“Got to Dance”)
Information about the workshops:
Today, Manuela is a German Dance Association (DTV) Latin coach, an S-level judge, and a trainer for coaches and judges. In her workshops, she combines many years of competitive experience with didactic depth and passion—ideal for dancers who want to experience technique, expression, and structure at the highest level.
Innovation, structure & swing competence
Marc Heldt is a prominent figure in the German West Coast Swing scene. His career began in the national team for Standard and Latin, later becoming an ADTV dance instructor and founding his own dance school in Düsseldorf. Today, he is one of the most renowned WCS instructors in Europe and is active internationally as a judge and tournament director.
Erfolge:
– US Open Champion in West Coast Swing (2023)
– Certified WCS Master Instructor
– Many years of training for dance teachers
– International workshop and festival management
– Development of innovative teaching methods in WCS
Information about the workshops:
Marc teaches even complex movements with impressive clarity and structure. His workshops are characterized by innovative teaching methods, effective technique teaching, and a deep sense of movement – a must for anyone who wants to truly understand and experience West Coast Swing.
Musicality, style & WCS spirit
Christian Spengler is one of the pioneers of West Coast Swing in Germany and played a key role in establishing this dance style in Freiburg. As a dancer, coach, and internationally sought-after judge, he shapes the scene far beyond Germany's borders.
Erfolge:
– One of the first active WCS trainers in Germany
– Development of the WCS scene in Freiburg
– Internationally active as a coach and judge
– Workshops & performances at festivals at home and abroad
Information about the workshops:
Christian demonstrates how musicality, charm, and a cool look in dance are accessible to everyone. His classes combine a relaxed atmosphere with precise technique, making West Coast Swing accessible, inspiring, and stylish.
Salsa with heart, structure & joie de vivre
Roberto Fasiello has been one of Europe's most sought-after salsa instructors for many years. The former competitive dancer brings his passion for music, rhythm, and movement to the dance floor with clear methodology and captivating energy. Since 2009, he has successfully directed the Tanzloft in Karlsruhe and is active throughout Europe as a teacher, coach, and adjudicator.
Erfolge:
– Sought-after salsa instructor at international congresses
– Director of Tanzloft Karlsruhe since 2009
– Judge & recognized Salsa instructor
– Known for structured teaching and charismatic style
Information about the workshops:
Roberto presents salsa as an experience – full of emotion, musicality, and ease. His workshops combine technique and emotion, inviting authentic expression through dance. With his warm personality, humor, and expertise, he inspires dancers of all levels.
Stage tango with soul & experience
Juan and Mirabai have been passionately dedicated to tango for over 20 years – as dancers, choreographers, and teachers with worldwide stage experience. Both have performed in prestigious shows, competed in international competitions, and influenced the tango scene with their creative style.
Erfolge:
– Mirabai: 9th place at the Tango World Championship (Mundial Buenos Aires, 2010), 2nd place at the Stage Tango in La Plata (2024), three-time winning choreographer of the USA Tango Team
– Juan: Engagements in shows such as La Ventana, Señor Tango, Café Tortoni and Stravaganza Tango; Choreographer & Director of the Training Program for Stage Dancers
– Both: International performances in countless countries, leading active companies such as Esencia Tanguera and Reviviendo Tango
Information about the workshops:
Their workshops are an invitation to greater expression, depth, and connection in tango. With empathy, humor, and professional precision, Juan & Mirabai make complex movements accessible and encourage their participants' artistic freedom—ideal for anyone who wants to experience tango on and off stage.
Bachata power with signature style
Kira (from Mexico) and Ilhan (from Turkey) are Switzerland's leading Bachata couple and live in Basel. Since 2022, they have performed together on international stages, impressing audiences with a stylish blend of elegance, technique, and energy. With their IK Signature Style—a fusion of various Bachata styles—they are setting new standards in the dance world.
Erfolge:
– Kira: first Swiss salsa dancer at the World Championships
– Ilhan: certified Bachata Sensual instructor (Korke & Judith)
– International workshops, including at ABC Studios Milano
– Founding of the IK Dance Studio in Basel (2024)
Information about the workshops:
Their courses are characterized by modern teaching methods, creative elements, and clear technique teaching. Whether Bachata, Salsa, or Zouk, Ilhan & Kira teach with passion, professionalism, and a strong focus on connection and musicality. Their workshops are lively, structured, and make progress tangible.
Swing, jazz & pure joie de vivre
Tomer & Rivital are passionate dancers and teachers of Lindy Hop and Balboa. Their love of jazz music led them to swing – and they live this passion with every movement. With their own dance school, they are dedicated to teaching dance as an expression of joy, connection, and musicality.
In her lessons, the focus is not only on technique, but above all on the experience: the connection between music and dance partner, the conscious leading and following, and the lightness that makes swing so special.
Erfolge:
– Management of my own dance school with a focus on Lindy Hop & Balboa
– Teaching experience at international workshops and festivals
– Known for her musical style and creative teaching methodology
Information about the workshops:
Tomer & Rivital design their workshops with energy, depth, and a keen sense for what defines dance. Their classes are an experience – dance-wise, musically, and humanly. Perfect for anyone who wants to not just dance swing, but feel it.
House, Afro & pure energy
Virginia "Big Mama" Breitenbaumer is part of the renowned team at the Dance Academy Freiburg and has been a hit at the EURO DANCE FESTIVAL for years. With a wealth of experience, passion and unmistakable energy, she brings hip hop to the stage - authentically, professionally and full of joie de vivre.
Big Mama specializes in House and Afro dance styles, which she embodies with groove, depth and absolute dedication. Her sessions are not only technically demanding, but also full of energy, musical sensitivity and empowerment.
Erfolge:
- Trainer at the Dance Academy Freiburg
- Regular guest at the EURO DANCE FESTIVAL
- Many years of teaching experience in hip hop
- Participation in numerous shows, projects & youth programs
Information about the workshops:
Big Mama's workshops thrive on her sense of rhythm, her stage presence and her ability to move people - both internally and externally. Whether groove, flow or expression: anyone who dances with her feels what dance really means - free, powerful and with a lot of soul.
Kizomba out of passion
Silvia Pinto is originally from Portugal and discovered her love for kizomba in her home country in 2007. For her, the dance, which originated in Angola, is much more than just movement—it is an expression of culture, identity, and belonging. Since 2011, she has played a key role in shaping the kizomba scene in Freiburg and has been teaching since 2016, including at the renowned Mamita Club.
She deepened her dance foundation with professional training at a renowned dance school in Porto. As a passionate dancer, she has performed at nearly 100 international festivals—both as a follower and as a leader—and developed her own unique style.
Erfolge:
– Building the Kizomba scene in Freiburg since 2011
– Solid training in Porto
– Worldwide festival experience as a dancer & trainer
– Lessons at established Kizomba locations such as the Mamita Club
Information about the workshops:
Silvia designs her classes with passion, structure, and a keen sense for individual learning levels. She combines traditional and modern elements, placing a special emphasis on Kizomba Fusion – conscious movement in harmony with music and emotion.
Urban dance, show power & pedagogical excellence
Heinrich Herrmann is a permanent fixture on the German and international urban dance scene. His dance style combines technique, expression and stage experience at the highest level. Trained at renowned studios such as Millennium Dance Complex, Movement Lifestyle or Debbie Reynolds Studio (Los Angeles) as well as the HIP DROP Program in Malmö, he has constantly expanded his versatility.
Erfolge:
- Winner of numerous international crew competitions (e.g. World of Dance, Starmoves, German Championships)
- TV appearances on Germany's Got Talent, Got to Dance, Masters of Dance
- Dancer, choreographer and teacher for over 50 events, including Euro Dance Festival, Ladies Only Festival, World Dance Gala, FOXCruise
- Theater productions with Theater Pan.Optikum throughout Europe
Information about the workshops:
Heinrich teaches throughout Europe - from festivals and dance camps to dance education. His teaching is characterized by energy, structure, creativity and a deep connection to the music. Whether on stage or in the classroom, he inspires dancers of all ages and abilities with his experience, passion and pedagogical strength.
Brazil Zouk with depth & dynamics
Florence & Alexej are international Brazilian Zouk teachers from Freiburg. Since 2022, they have been teaching together with great passion and dance diversity - both locally and on international stages. They are regularly active in Freiburg (Salsa con Pasión) and Basel (Bachata Basel), give workshops at congresses and develop their own shows and tutorials.
Erfolge:
- International workshop instructors and show dancers
- Lessons in established dance schools in Freiburg and Basel
- Production of Zouk tutorials & stage shows
- Diverse dance background: jazz dance, gymnastics, martial arts, salsa, bachata, kizomba, West Coast Swing
Information about the workshops:
Florence & Alexej harmonize technique, musicality and personality. Their classes are characterized by clear structure, playful energy and a deep understanding of movement. Both combine their individual backgrounds to create a harmonious, dynamic Zouk style that unites dance development and joy in a unique way.
Discofox with style, drive & passion
Klaus Lustig & Jennifer Striegan-Willscheidt are among the best-known and most active Discofox trainers in Germany. Klaus is a multiple German champion in discofox and freestyle and has been a finalist at several world and European championships. Jenni is an active S-class ballroom dancer and brings fresh energy to every event.
Together they are represented at almost all major discofox festivals - from Euro Dance Festival to "Schwerte tanzt" and the FoxCruise on the AIDA. Klaus also works nationwide as a speaker and is considered a driving force in the further development of discofox in Germany.
Erfolge:
- Klaus: German Discofox & Freestyle Champion, multiple bronze medals at world championships
- Jenni: Active competition dancer in the S class
- Workshops & shows at all major discofox events at home and abroad
Information about the workshops:
With their mix of technique, humor and entertainment, Klaus & Jenni offer modern social dancing workshops at a high level. Their sessions are dynamic, up-to-date and exciting - ideal for anyone who wants to experience Discofox in style and with fun.
Expression, technique & world class
Oxana Lebedev has been dancing since the age of 7 and is one of the most successful Latin dancers in Germany. She became junior world champion in the 10 dances back in 2002. She is an award-winning dance teacher, choreographer and workshop instructor and works with top international couples. Today she is a permanent fixture at the most important tournaments in the world.
Erfolge:
- 5-time German Professional Latin Champion
- World Champion Showdance Latin (2016)
- Finalist at World and European Championships
- Podium places at GOC, Blackpool and UK Open
- Junior World Champion 10 Dances (2002)
Information about the workshops:
Oxana inspires with her clear methodology, creative approach and strong stage presence. Her workshops combine expression, technique and international level - a must for anyone who is passionate about Latin dance and wants to develop professionally.
Precision, personality & champion class
Jula Palenga lives and loves West Coast Swing - and with full energy! As a qualified ADTV dance teacher, she brings sound didactics, creative impulses and dancing precision to the dance floor. Her career began early, with stints in jazz, ballet, standard and Latin. She has been active in West Coast Swing for over five years and is now in demand both nationally and internationally.
Erfolge:
- First German in the Champion Division (since 2024)
- German Strictly Champion
- German vice-champion in Jack'n'Jill
- Lecturer and performer at international WCS events
Information about the workshops:
Julia's classes inspire with structure, musicality and lots of charisma. She stands for modern teaching methods, lively energy and real connection in dance - ideal for anyone who wants to combine technique with personality and fun.
Versatility, humor & social dance at the top level
Benny and Anastasia Zentz are experienced ADTV dance teachers who have been teaching couples of all ages since 2005. Their focus is on social dance, which they teach with excellent methodology and a good dose of humor - practical, relaxed and motivating.
Erfolge:
- Finalists at the Discofox World Championships 2015 and European Championship finalists 2016 & 2017
- Successes in Standard and Latin
- Over 200 national and international show appearances
- TV and event presence on large stages
Information about the workshops:
Benny & Anastasia inspire with clear concepts and a relaxed approach to movement. Their repertoire ranges from Discofox and West Coast Swing to Salsa and Tango Argentino. With sound training, stage experience and passion, they create workshops that both entertain and develop - ideal for anyone who wants to develop their dance skills.
Line dancing with heart, structure & creativity
Rudi Nunes de Sousa is a qualified ADTV dance teacher (since 2016) and a permanent fixture at the Euro Dance Festival in Rust. He discovered his enthusiasm for line dancing through further training with Sascha Wolf - since then he has been passionate about this dance style and passes on his knowledge in numerous courses.
Erfolge:
- Regularly teaches line dancing with her own choreographies
- Long-standing coach of the swing formation "The Swinging Peps"
- Organization & implementation of the Line Dance Festival in Rust & Freiburg
- Over a decade of teaching experience at the Gutmann dance school
Information about the workshops:
Rudi's classes are energetic, well-structured and full of positive vibes. He combines technique with creativity, teaches his own choreos with joy and ensures that participants of all experience levels feel comfortable and motivated. You can feel his passion for line dancing in every step - a real highlight for dance enthusiasts!
Dynamics, precision & a passion for Latin
Fabian and Darja are among the most outstanding Latin couples in Germany. Both have been dancing since early childhood, are in the highest starting class (S class) and are members of the Hessen and national squads of the German Dancesport Association (DTV). Fabian started with hip-hop at the age of 5 and found his way to couple dancing at the age of 9. Darja was on the dance floor at the age of 6 and became involved in social projects in dance sport at an early age.
Erfolge:
- Multiple national and runner-up champions
- Finalists at German championships and international tournaments
- Placements at Holland Masters, World Open Helsinki & WDSF World Open Berlin
- Currently in the top 10 German Latin couples worldwide
- 237th place in the WDSF world rankings
Information about the workshops:
As a real power duo, Fabian & Darja bring concentrated experience, technique and energy to the dance floor. Their workshops are characterized by dynamism, methodical clarity and inspiring team spirit - ideal for dancers who want more than just steps.
Passion, precision & tournament power
Tommy & Ines Unterer belong to the top class in German Latin dance. As multiple reigning state champions in the Senior I S class, they successfully represent the Regio Tanzclub Freiburg. They also perform well internationally - most recently as the best German couple with 6th place in the final of the WDSF Open in Lyon.
Erfolge:
- Multiple state champion Baden-Württemberg (seniors I S Latin)
- Finalists at international WDSF tournaments
- 6th place at the WDSF Open Lyon as best German couple
Information about the workshops:
Tommy is a qualified ADTV dance instructor. Together they bring sound technique, extensive tournament experience and a lot of passion for training to the dance floor. Their workshops offer an ideal mix of discipline, motivation and practical instruction - perfect for all tournament and Latin enthusiasts.
Vintage swing with heart, style & authenticity
Ju stands for vintage swing with feeling, rhythm and historical subtlety. Ju is an ADTV dance teacher and as a committed member of the Swingin' Freiburg team, Ju brings Lindy Hop, Charleston and solo jazz to the dance floor with passion. Her classes inspire both beginners and experienced dancers with their clear structure, stylistic variety and loving attention to detail.
Erfolge:
- ADTV dance teacher training
- Active team member at Swingin' Freiburg
Information about the workshops:
In the courses, musicality, dance freedom and vintage flair merge into a rousing experience. Ju creates a space in which learning is fun, expression is encouraged and swing remains alive - stylish, open and inspiring.
Yoga Flow Dance: Where movement breathes
Jill Weiberg combines dance, yoga and body awareness in a unique way. Her journey into the world of dance began at the age of three and she led her first dance group at 14. Since then, she has completed numerous training courses in dance, fitness and yoga - including at Starmoves College and as part of certified yoga teacher training courses (585h RYS).
Her studies in Sport & Health and her long-standing connection to the Dance Academy Freiburg give her classes depth and professionalism. She is particularly fond of the Yoga Flow Dance she developed - a creative combination of yoga, music and lightness of dance.
Erfolge:
- Certified yoga teacher (585h RYS), currently in 300h Advanced Training
- Starmoves College - Masters League
- Lecturer for Yoga Flow Dance
- Training in Zumba, step aerobics & street dance
- Study "Sport & Health"
- Member of the Dance Academy Freiburg since 2015
Information about the workshops:
In the Yoga Flow Dance workshop, yoga elements merge with dance vibes to create an energetic experience. Suitable for all levels, Jill combines movement, music and breathing - flowing, creative and inspiring.