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.
Mira and her partner Brad are currently competing in local and national competitions and are available for hire for shows. Please call the studio for more information. Evan Wellemeyer - dance instructor/manager
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. Evan has consistently been one of the top 10 teachers in the entire region for two years now. His enthusiasm, organization and passion for making the Glastonbury studio the "Best in the Region" propelled him to the position of manager in November 2008.
Heiko Leyhausen - instructor
Heiko began his dancing career at the age of 12 competing in the German Dance Sport Federation. Throughout the 80’s he earned several German, European and World championship titles in Latin and Standard dancing. He represented Germany all over the world, including the US, Africa and China. He has studied dance with several prestigious coaches both in England and the United States. He is knowledgeable in all areas of dance including Argentine Tango, Salsa, Mambo, Tap, Irish Step, Hip Hop and Streetdance. In addition to his many personal dance accomplishments, Heiko is a successful coach and trainer including coaching a world champion Breakdance team in 2003 and several Hip Hop and Breakdance finalists in German and international championships. He is also licensed by several international organizations as an official adjudicator. Heiko recently moved to Connecticut with his family after teaching and managing his own dance studio in Germany for 10 years.
Lisa LaPerriere - dance instructor
Lisa began dancing at the age of 5 starting with jazz, ballet, tap and also performed in several local productions such as Starlight Storybook, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The Pajama Game, Annie Get your Gun and many more. While attending Western Connecticut State University she was part of the Dance Team for 4 years expanding her dancing experience to include; lyrical, modern, hip hop, and African dance. After graduating with a degree in Communications Theatre Arts/Media option she eagerly accepted the opportunity to coach the WCSU Dance Team choreographing several routines with a variety of styles of dance. Lisa has experience in Country Western Line and Couple dancing as well. She started her Ballroom and Latin dancing career in November 2007 competing in numerous regional competitions in the New England area. Lisa proudly just joined the Glastonbury Team in July 2009 and is so thrilled to share with each person her passion for dance that she has held for 21 years, as well as inspiring each and every one to find the passion within them!!
Lisa is newly ZUMBA certified!! Join her for her new exciting classes.
Rachel Stankevich - dance instructor
Rachel began her Ballroom and Latin Dancing career at the age of 11. She began competing in 2001, entering numerous regional competitions which lead her to Nationals in 2003. While attending high school, Rachel entered a competition where she obtained the title of Top Junior in the region. She is very excited about her debut as Glastonbury's newest professional.
Vladyslav Astafiev - dance instructor
Vlad joins the Glastonbury Team from the Ukraine. He has been dancing Ballroom and Latin since he was nine years and competing for last 15 years as a top amateur in the Ukraine. Vlad has three years teaching experience and speaks English and Russian fluently. He is excited to share his knowledge in America!!
Jen Crandall-Receptionist
Jen has been with the studio for over 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.
Nicole Hester - ReceptionistNicole is one of our newest team members to join the studio and is Jen's right-hand woman. She is very excited to have joined the Glastonbury Team and will happily help you with all of your administrative needs.
