This gala evening consisted of spectacular Pro-Am, Youth and Professional performances that did exactly what the hosts wanted -- allowed us to escape our own lives for just a moment and get lost in the movement of their story. Held at the W Hollywood Hotel, this venue offered the full glitz and glamour with endless red carpets, walls covered with Hollywood icons and overall a sophisticated ambiance. A three course dinner was accompanied by a live three-piece band that allowed all guests to do an abundance of social dancing! The MC was none other than Nick Kosovich. The audience was filled with people of all ages – ages 8 to age 85. Attendees and performers came from across the world – Russia, Ukraine, China, Hungary and the U.S.

The evening consisted of two acts. Act One had eight Pro-Am numbers, the finale being an impressively powerful Paso Doble by Pak Ling from Tokyo with the hosts Slavik Kryklyvvy and Justinas Duknauskas. I have honestly never seen such choreography before. The balance between the two male figures around Ling was breathtaking, especially with the lifts. Other numbers included Susan Norton & Alex Demkin, Lisa Liao & Yaroslav Beley and Eva Israyelyant & Armen Way, among all others.

The second act began with CBZ Foundation Ambassadors - Blackpool champion Daniel Novikov and Daniele Koretskaya – performing a cha-cha number prooving that the quality of dancing is quickly increasing at a younger age. This was followed by a three and a half minute non-stop jive by U.S. Latin and Ballroom Champions Erik Linder & Rickie Taylor. CBZ foundation was a partner for this event. One year ago Karina Smirnoff was an honorary guest at a CBZ Foundation Gala in Orange Country and grew strong interest in the foundation’s goals and mission. The importance of having an organization that allows kids to have an artistic education is a vital component of the industry and “A Night to Remember” credits that.

The second act continued with six performances by the hosts. From a sultry rumba by Justinas and Anna, to a captivating tango/paso from Slavik and Karina, their dancing was concentrated, unique and catering to the guests! The event was followed by an after party on the hotel rooftop where the hotel holds its traditional Sunday Jazz Night. 

Throughout the evening it was visible that the hosts put all efforts into this night with their heart and soul, from the months of planning to decorating the ballroom. “A Night to a Remember” was truly about doing something new and special, something this country doesn’t have, just a gathering of friends for dance. We are looking forward to the next event in 2017.