Firebeat Ballroom Studios

Firebeat Dancesport Studios, LLC was founded in March 2009 by Andre' Strinadko & Ching Kao through their love for ballroom dance and for each other. They wanted to create a sanctuary where people can feel safe to explore their potential, to discover self-acceptance, and to use dance as a modality for healing the body, mind, and spirit. Firebeat found its first home in Boston, Massachusetts on the top floor of a historic firehouse. The studio was encased by a large Plexiglass dome where the fire pole was once hung. The space became an inspiration for the philosophy and the vibe of studio. Given the location of the space, and that both Andre' and Ching are both fire signs (Aries and Leo, respectively), the name Firebeat was born. Firebeat: where passion, dance, music, and heart come together. The studio had humble beginnings, offering only one group class and only Andre' as an instructor. But within a couple of months, the 1000 SF dance floor was bumping with couples & Pro/Am students. During their five years in Boston, Firebeat experienced abundant success and growth. The studio became known for elite training in International Latin. More importantly, the heart and energy of Firebeat created a strong community of students who are all committed to dance and to supporting each other. Andre' formed several fruitful dance partnership and achieved significant milestones. With Agnieska Kaniowska, Andre' placed in the semi-finals of Blackpool R.S. Latin. With Tatiana Banko, Andre' was a finalist in UK Open R.S. Latin and in U.S. Open to the World Latin Championships. Soon, it became clear that Firebeat was outgrowing their Boston home. Andre' and Ching always envisioned a larger space where people can move and dance freely. In the summer of 2013, there were clear signs that pointed to a Firebeat expansion. First, Ching left her career in science to devote 100% of her time to the studio. Second, Andre' professional partnership dissolved upon the retirement of his partner. Together, Andre' and Ching decided to dance professionally and dedicate their entire life to their passion: dance and Firebeat. The moment they made this commitment, the perfect space revealed itself in the perfect location. In Winchester, Andre' and Ching built their dream studio from the ground up. Every decision and décor was made with love. With 7000 SF of raw space to work with, they built a dance studio with three ballrooms, one of which has a competition-sized floor. They also wanted Firebeat to be a place where people can come dance, nourish themselves, and hang out with their friends, so they incorporated locker rooms, retail shop, and a coffee shop / smoothie bar into the studio. The Winchester space is truly a refuge for all dance lovers. The primary goal of Firebeat is to empower students, allowing them to feel and experience full self-acceptance, physical and spiritual strength through dance. Firebeat encourages students to trust their intuition and to fully embrace their present journey, whether they are just starting their first class or whether they are competing professionally. And here, in Winchester, Firebeat has created a sanctuary where all dreams are possible. Through dance, we ignite our love for ourselves and for each other.