Elena, born in Russia, raised in Chicago, has been welcomed on to the South Barrington Fred Astaire team. She has been dancing since the mere age of 5 going through stages of ballet, jazz, and of course falling in love with ballroom and has never stopped dancing since. Whether it is going to the symphony orchestra or the rhythm of a dynamic cha cha followed by an exquisite foxtrot, she indulges herself in all types and forms of music.

Some of her other hobbies include playing the piano, playing tennis, reading and writing poetry, and traveling to destinations in Europe, South America and the US. In addition to being fluent in English and Russian, she has also studied abroad in Italy pursuing communication in the Italian language.

She looks forward to working with and devoting herself to her students. There will never be a dull moment with the level of excitement and anticipation she has for every lesson. Let's Dance!