Happy Holidays from the Fred Astaire Dance Studio Staff! Jessica Lengenfelder - director Jessica began dancing at the age of 4 and has a dance background of ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, acrobatics, and hip hop. She took a break from dancing while attending the university of connecticut, where she received her bachelors degree in child psychology. Jessica started at fred astaire in 1998 where she met and started competing with her husband Clemens. The two took over ownership of the studio in 2001. Clemens Lengenfelder - director Clemens began dancing in Linz, Austria at the age of 15. After completing all of his examinations in dance school, he began competing in major dance competitions throughout europe including the Austrian Open, German Open, Italian Open, Copenhagen Open, Czech Republic Open, and Blackpool. He was recruited by the studio in 1998 and became the owner with his wife in 2001. During his time with Fred Astaire, he has won numerous new england regional championships as well as top teacher awards. He is also the proud winner of the 2004 superhero award. Alexander Lengenfelder - studio host Not dancing yet, but loves the cha cha!   Alexie Lovkin - Manager Started dancing in Russia at age six where he competed in numerous finals around Europe. He started teaching part time at Fred Astaire Dance Studios while attending the University of Hartford. He then switched to full time and has been with fred astaire dance studios for ten years.  Alexie has been promoted to full time manager of the Glastonbury studio and has also taken on the position         of    Regional trainer and will be training all of the instructors on a monthly basis.  Mira Cherkezova-dance instructor Mira began dancing at the age of 10 training in both the International Latin and Standard styles of dancing.  Mira has competed extensively in both styles of dance and more recently has concentrated her efforts toward International Standard.  In 2005 she solidified her name by ranking third among all dancers in her home country of Bulgaria.  Upon joining the Fred Astaire team in March of 2007 she has also been competing in both the American Smooth and Rhythm styles of dancing.   Tamas Kardos-dance instructor Tamas has just joined us from Hungary where he competed in International Latin and Standard dancing.  Tamas taught in Israel for a year and has taught both children and adults from beginner to advanced. Evan Wellemeyer-dance instructor Evan began dancing at the age of 15, taking Ballroom and Latin classes regularly until age 20 when he was hired by Arthur Murray as an instructor.  he then began competing professionally and won numerous regional titles as well as being a finalist in larger national competitions.  Evan joined the Fred Astaire team in the Spring of 2007. Emily Adams  - Office Manager Emily is invaluable to the daily "behind the scenes" activities of the studio.  Her helpful and friendly personality allows her to really show people that we are the "happiest, friendliest, spot in town"!  Jen Crandall-Receptionist Jen has been with the studio for five years and is the "go-to" girl for all important information.  She is happy and friendly and ready to help with all of your non-dancing needs.