Oleg Iakushev & Viktoriia Iakusheva

Oleg Iakushev was born in Nizhniy Novgorod, Russia, and began dancing at the age of five. He trained extensively in International Latin and Ballroom from an early age, developing a strong technical foundation and years of competitive experience. Oleg and Viktoriia began dancing together in 2010, building a partnership that would eventually span more than a decade in International Latin. In 2019, Oleg relocated to the United States with Viktoriia to continue their careers as professional dancers and educators. After concluding their competitive Latin career in 2022, Oleg discovered a new artistic direction in American Rhythm. Drawn to the style’s musicality, individuality, and connection between partners, he embraced the transition and has quickly established himself as a competitive professional. Today, Oleg teaches at Fred Astaire Dance Studios Montville, where he is committed to helping students develop strong technique, confidence, and a genuine love of dance. 

Viktoriia Iakusheva was born in Nizhniy Novgorod, Russia, and began dancing at just four years old. Her early training in International Latin and Ballroom gave her a strong technical foundation and a lifelong passion for competitive dance. In 2010, she began her partnership with Oleg, and together they spent more than a decade competing in International Latin while developing their careers as professional dancers and teachers. In 2013, Viktoriia and Oleg welcomed their son while continuing to pursue their shared goals in dance. After moving to the United States in 2019, Viktoriia continued to grow as both a competitor and educator. Following the couple’s decision to transition into American Rhythm in 2023, she embraced the style’s expressive freedom, musicality, and distinctive partnership dynamics. Viktoriia now teaches at Fred Astaire Dance Studios Montville and takes great pride in helping her students achieve success on and off the competition floor. 

Oleg and Viktoriia began dancing together in November 2010 and spent more than twelve years building their partnership through International Latin. Their shared experience as competitors, teachers, and parents has shaped a partnership grounded in trust, discipline, and a deep understanding of one another. After concluding their Latin career in November 2022, they took time to consider their next direction before making the decision to transition into American Rhythm in December 2023. The style immediately connected with them through its musicality, expressive freedom, and emphasis on authentic connection between partners. As a Professional American Rhythm couple, Oleg and Viktoriia have quickly made their presence known in the division. Their dancing combines strong technique with a clear masculine and feminine dynamic, sensual expression, and a confident competitive presence. Their goal is to continue rising among the top American Rhythm couples while sharing the beauty and depth of the style with audiences and students alike.