Our Instructors

Alisa Hryn is the owner, creative director, and lead instructor at Dream Ballroom Academy. Originally from Ukraine, Alisa brings a diverse and international background in movement, performance, and dance.
Her journey began with a strong foundation rhythmic gymnastics, where she developed discipline, body awareness, and competitive experience at a high level. Over time, she expanded her training across multiple dance styles including jazz, ballet, hip hop, and contemporary, and performed internationally in professional productions across Asia and the Middle East.
With over a decade of experience in Ballroom and Latin dance, Alisa trained with top-level coaches across the United States and has spent years competing professionally. Her background combines both high-level technical training and real-world performance experience, allowing her to bring a unique depth and understanding to her teaching.
Alisa is passionate about continuous professional development and continues to refine her skills through coaching, training, and involvement in the competitive dance world.
At Dream Ballroom Academy, her focus goes beyond teaching steps. She is dedicated to helping students build confidence, develop strong technique, and experience the transformative power of dance – both physically and mentally. Her approach blends high-level training with a supportive, welcoming environment where students of all backgrounds can grow and thrive.

Iurii Kora, ‘Yura’, is originally from Nikopol, Ukraine.  Yura started dancing when he was seven years old.  Having realized that he had a big interest in ballroom dancing, Yura enjoyed working hard to improve his skills and started to compete at the age of seven in both Latin and Standard.  He traveled to different cities in Ukraine and other countries  to compete and received numerous awards. ​ 

His love of dancing led to the opportunity of learning the American style​s of ballroom dance and teaching in the U.S.  Yura competes with his students regularly at national and international competitions, placing in many prestigious events ​in all four styles (American Rhythm and Smooth and International Latin and Standard).  In addition to competing with his students ​and his professional partner, he enjoys performing in showcases.  His show dances are always a pleasure to watch as his love of dancing and teaching shine through. ​His ability to cater to the needs of each student as an individual makes him one of the area’s best teachers. Even his students that don’t choose to perform/compete, are given his full attention and effort. Their progress is his goal. Yura is ambitious, energetic and outgoing making friends everywhere he goes.   Yura and his professional partner have extensive competition experience in International Latin, American Smooth, and American Rhythm. In addition, they were invited to perform show dances at competitions and at a regional Dancing with Stars event.

With over a decade of teaching experience, Matt brings professionalism, passion, and precision to every class.  He has trained students in ballroom, swing, salsa, country western, and more — helping each dancer reach their personal and competitive goals.

Matt’s teaching style combines clear technique with an encouraging approach, making every student feel confident and inspired on the dance floor.

Whether you are preparing for competition, a special event, or simply want to discover the joy of dancing, Matt will guide you every step of the way.  Contact us today to schedule your first class!

Here are the videos of our instructors in action competing in Professional Rhythm.  Enjoy!

Windy City Open 2022 – Presentation