the art of actually dancing
Technique with a purpose.We believe learning to dance is about more than memorizing steps. It’s understanding how movement works, how partners communicate, how music shapes the dance, and how technique gives you the freedom to respond naturally.Our instructors bring different backgrounds, specialities, and perspectives to the floor, but share one goal: to develop dancers who are confident, adaptable, and comfortable wherever they dance.Because the real measure of what you learn here is what you can do beyond the lesson.
MEET THE FAMily
mark spivak
Born in Kiev, Mark built his early career in dance as founder of the gold medal-winning Triple Dance Ensemble before bringing his experience to Jacksonville, where he established Mark Spivak’s Dance Institute. His background as a dancer, choreographer, educator, and studio owner spans decades and has influenced generations of dancers.
With degrees in choreography and business and leadership experience with Dance Masters of America, Mark brings a rare combination of artistic tradition and entrepreneurial perspective to All About Ballroom. His lifelong commitment to dance education continues to be part of the foundation on which the studio grows today.
Owner
heather kornick
Owner & Master Dance InstructorA Jacksonville native, Heather began dancing at age four and later studied at Florida State University. After turning her focus to ballroom in 1996, she went on to become a United States Finalist in the American 9 Dance Division, building a career defined by both technical excellence and a deep understanding of the art of ballroom dance.
As Owner and Master Dance Instructor, Heather brings nearly three decades of experience to the studio and remains deeply involved in the development of its students and instructors. Known for seeing exactly what a dancer needs to move forward, she combines technical expertise with an intuitive approach to teaching, helping students refine their dancing, challenge themselves, and continue growing at every level.
gil maldonado
Lead Dance Instructor & Advanced Teaching SpecialistOriginally from Puerto Rico and later rooted in Kansas City, Gil discovered his love of dance through the rhythms of Salsa, Merengue, and Hip Hop. He began his Ballroom and Latin career with TC Dance Club in 1999. Across more than two decades of teaching and competing , he has earned multiple professional dance certifications and developed an exceptional depth of technical knowledge.
His instruction goes far beyond steps, with particular focus on balance and weight transfer, connection, lead and follow, timing and musicality. Known for the details that transform good dancing into great dancing, Gil’s true passion is social dance, giving his students the skill and confidence to dance wherever life takes them.
Megan gonzalez
Chief Operating Officer & Dance InstructorBorn in Tampa and raised in Orlando, Megan grew up immersed in Latin culture and the performing arts, training in ballet, tap, jazz, and acrobatics from age four. Years later, her children’s interest in ballroom brought her back to dance and to the studio she nows calls home.
Drawing on her early dance training, Megan has a particular interest in body mechanics and the technique that gives each dance its distinct character. She loves helping students understand how movement works, build confidence, and experience the moment something clicks and they realize they’re capable of more than they thought. As Chief Operating Officer, Megan also works behind the scenes to shape the experiences and community that extend well beyond the lesson.
Born and raised in Jacksonville, Jalen discovered his love of dance at a young age and has been sharing that passion ever since. Whether it’s East Coast Swing, Salsa, or simply getting people out on the dance floor, he believes dancing is about connection, confidence, and having fun. Known for his approachable teaching style and energetic personality, Jalen enjoys helping students feel comfortable while creating memorable moments both in classes and at social events.
Dance Instructorjalen carabello
After leaving a career in administration to pursue dance full-time, Victoria followed her calling into the ballroom. With a special appreciation for Cha Cha, Bachata, and line dancing, she brings enthusiasm, patience, and plenty of fun to every lesson and party. Known for her warm personality and playful sense of humor, Victoria has a natural ability to make every student feel welcome while creating an enjoyable learning environment. Dedicated to growing as an instructor, she is always refining her skills to provide an exceptional experience for every dancer.
Dance Instructorvictoria zayas
what guides us
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To teach dance in a way that builds genuine skill, confidence, and connection, while creating a community and experiences that give our students the freedom to take their dancing beyond the lesson and wherever life leads.
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To redefine what a dance studio can be. A community where exceptional instruction, meaningful relationships, and shared experiences make dance part of a life well lived, extending far beyond the studio.
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Dance is meant to be lived.
We believe great instruction should give you more than steps to remember. It should give you the technique, confidence, and understanding to make dancing your own, whether you’re at a studio social, celebrating a special occasion, competing, or stepping onto a dance floor somewhere around the world.
Request a Personalized Program Consultation
Meet one-on-one with an instructor to discuss your goals, experience, and interests. Together, we’ll create a dance program that’s thoughtfully tailored to you.