Run by internationally accredited performer and adjudicator Lydia Petrigova, and her team of internationally accredited dance instructors, we offer elite dance classes for all ages. Our students come from all walks of life and range in age, background, and dance experience. We proudly offer a place for every dancer at the Academy – from the social dancer to those who wish to compete internationally.
Lydia Petrigova
Lydia Petrigova
Owner and Creative Director
Lydia is a world-class dancer, choreographer, and coach. Lydia graduated with honors from St. Petersburg’s Humanitarian University with a degree in Dance Performance, Teaching and Choreography as well as having studied children’s physiology and psychology. Her focus areas are Ballroom, Latin, Ballet Character, and Jazz Dance.
Lydia has spent the last 20 years training dancers across the world. She established the very first children’s program in Minneapolis, MN and worked as the Artistic Director for the children’s dance schools Altair in St. Petersburg, Russia, and InterDance in the United States.
Lydia’s competitive dance record and expertise place her in the top echelons of ballroom dance. Her students have won international recognitions at shows and competitions throughout Russia, Europe, and the United States.
Lydia was trained by and has worked with many world famous coaches and choreographers. She is a member of the National Dance Teachers Association of America (NDTA) and the National Dance Council of America (NDCA).
In addition to being a highly-regarded instructor, Lydia has won numerous competitive titles. Among them are:
US Open National Professional Ten Dance Finalist
Ohio Star Professional Rising Star Latin Champion
US Open Professional Rising Star Vice Champion
Youth European World Finalist
2019 Pro-Am Open Smooth World Vice-champion
2019 Pro-Am Open Smooth US National Champion
2019 Pro-Am Open Smooth US Open to the World Champion
Two Times 2009 World Pro-Am Open Latin Champion
Nikita Maiakov
Nikita Maiakov
Professional Ballroom & Latin Dance Instructor | Choreographer
Originally from Altai Krai, Russia, Nikita Maiakov is a professional ballroom and Latin dance instructor, choreographer, and show performer with over 20 years of dance experience and more than 10 years of teaching excellence.
A graduate of the Altai State Institute of Culture with a degree in Choreographic Art and Pedagogy of Ballroom Dancing, Nikita is certified as a choreographer-ballet master, studio director, and coach. His professional background includes leading roles in dance clubs, theatrical productions, and show projects across Russia.
As the founder of the “Academy of Dance” in Russia and a featured choreographer for the “Stars and Dances” show, Nikita has trained children and adults from beginner to competitive levels, produced wedding and stage choreographies, and prepared dancers for major championships.
A silver and bronze medalist of the Altai Krai Governor’s Cup and Candidate for Master of Sports, Nikita combines technical precision with artistic creativity. His teaching style emphasizes strong fundamentals, musicality, and self-expression—empowering each student to grow in skill and confidence.
At DC DanceSport Academy Dubai, Nikita brings his passion, professionalism, and energy to every class, inspiring dancers to move with excellence both on the social floor and in competition.
Belén Valdez
Belén Valdez
Tango Dancer
Born in Buenos Aires, Belén discovered tango at the age of 16 after first exploring other disciplines including artistic gymnastics and contemporary dance. She trained with respected tango teachers in both Tango Pista (Salón) and Tango Escenario (Stage Tango), developing a style that blends strength, elegance, and artistry.
As a professional dancer, Belén has performed shows, taught classes, and led seminars in cities such as Dubai, Salerno, Battipaglia, Castellammare, and Buenos Aires. She had the privilege of studying regularly with the great maestro Aoniken Quiroga and dancing in iconic milongas including Salón Canning, La Baldosa, and El Marabú.
In addition to her performances, Belén is also a model and ambassador for renowned tango shoe brands, currently sponsored by them. With years of international experience and deep Argentine roots, she continues to bring the beauty and authenticity of tango to audiences and students worldwide.
Julio Ariel Azorin
Julio Ariel Azorín
Tango Dancer
Julio began his tango journey in 1999 at just 14 years old, studying with renowned teachers in both Tango Pista (Salón) and Tango Escenario (Stage Tango). His training was enriched by classical dance and Argentine folkloric dance, giving him a strong foundation in movement and expression.
Over the years, Julio has performed across magazines, television, cinema, theaters, and tango houses. Highlights of his career include appearances at Teatro Astros with Hugo Del Carril, Teatro Avenida, and Teatro Moulin Bleu, as well as performances in legendary tango houses such as Señor Tango, Homero Manzi, and Boedo Tango.
In competition, he reached the Final of the 2013 Tango World Championship, a milestone that further established his artistry. Since then, Julio has been dancing and teaching internationally in Spain, Italy, Poland, Dubai, Brazil, and beyond. With over 26 years dedicated to tango, he continues to share his passion and experience with dancers around the world.
Mariia Prokopeva
Mariia Prokopeva
Studio Coordinator
With over 10 years of experience in the wellness, fitness, and dance industries across Russia and the GCC, Mariia ensures the smooth, welcoming, and professional operation of DC DanceSport Academy.
A holder of dual Master’s degrees in Finance and Hospitality Management, she has managed studios, organized large-scale events, and led creative projects across Dubai, Moscow, and Kuwait.
Combining her background in ballet and modern dance with strong organizational and communication skills, Mariia brings warmth, precision, and artistry to every aspect of studio life — helping students and instructors feel supported and inspired.