May 23-24 Event Dates
A weekend of rhythm, passion, and dancing brilliance awaits you.
You're in the Spotlight.
Join us for an unforgettable weekend of music, movement, and celebration at the luxurious Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront in Saint Petersburg, Florida. Experience great performances and a vibrant atmosphere that will keep you on your feet all night long. Secure your spot today and be part of an extraordinary dance event you won't want to miss!
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About Us
Dear friends and colleagues, we are thrilled to invite you to another exciting weekend of dancing:
Dance Spectacular, hosted by Dean Abraham, Letizia Di Carlo, and Mario Drobny.
What to Expect
Our panel of esteemed judges will observe every performance and provide constructive insights to help elevate your technique and presentation. We're also excited to introduce a new interactive format: Spotlights.
Spotlight Coaching
Each student will be featured once per session in a Spotlight — immediately following a heat, a judge will offer brief, targeted coaching to enhance that performance. For those who love Spotlights, additional sessions will be available for a small fee.
For the Competitive Spirits
We're offering friendly Multi-Dance Challenges — both closed and open — across all levels and styles, divided into two age categories. It's a great chance to test your skills in a fun, encouraging setting.
Event Highlights
Welcome Party: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Showcase & Feedback Sessions: Sunday, May 24, 2026
Spotlight Coaching: One included per student per session; extras available for purchase
About the Event
Experience the elegance and passion of ballroom and Latin dance at this unforgettable event, hosted at the stunning Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront in Saint Petersburg, Florida.
We are thrilled to invite you to our Dance Spectacular event, hosted by Dean Abraham, Letizia Di Carlo, and Mario Drobny — a vibrant weekend of dancing, connection, and growth!
View Venue
Spotlight
Receive feedback from the judges and be offered spotlight heats to receive immediate verbal feedback from our experts.
Each student will be featured once per session in a Spotlight — immediately following a heat, a judge will offer brief, targeted coaching to enhance that performance.
Event Makeover Experience
Elevate your look for Dance Spectacular with the expert touch of Purple Tiger.
Specializing in sophisticated hairstyles and flawless makeup, Purple Tiger ensures you step onto the dance floor radiating confidence and elegance. Book your exclusive makeover and let your style shine all weekend long.
Book an AppointmentConnect with the Event
Dance
An unforgettable weekend of world-class dance and celebration awaits.
Venue
Elegant venue. Electric energy. Extraordinary dancers. Dance Spectacular delivers perfection.
Spotlight
The spotlight's yours — feel the music, live the movement.
Our Judges
Margaret Burns
US Ten-Dance Champion
British Rising Star Latin Champion
World & British Exhibition Champion
World Class Adjudicator
Wilson Barrera
World Class Championship Adjudicator
Wilson Barrera is a World Class Championship Adjudicator and a certified member of the World Dance & DanceSport Council, the National DanceSport Council of America, the Professional Dancers Federation, the International Dance Teachers Association, the National Dance Teachers Association, and the Pan American Teachers Association.
Through his sought-after instruction and mentoring, Wilson has built a team of professional dance instructors uniquely qualified to train and prepare students for success in the world of DanceSport competition. His mission is to keep the art of dance and entertainment vibrant and appealing to people of all ages.
Timothy & Michele Mason
Ohio Star Ball International Ballroom Champions
United States Vice Champions
United States Open British Team Match Representatives
Winner of numerous US titles in the United States including Heritage Classic, North American, South Eastern & Semi Finalist of International Championships at Royal Albert Hall, London.
NDCA Championship & WDC Licensed Adjudicators & Examiners for Dance Vision DVIDA & Pan American Teachers of Dancing.
Officials
James Clemens
CEO, MC & Dance Instructor
James Clemens started his Ballroom Dancing career with his wife and partner Tammy Clemens in 1984. Together they competed professionally around the country in the American Smooth Division.
"My favorite part of Ballroom Dancing is the Social Dancing. No Judges. No routines. Just my partner, the music, and me. Though social dancing is where I find the most joy, I could never dance with any partner the way I am able, had I not competed and performed first. Testing and pushing myself in competitions and shows prepared me to be able to dance with anyone, regardless of their skill level."
Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront
333 1st St SE, Saint Petersburg, Florida, 33701-4342, USA
The Venue
Explore the downtown St. Petersburg waterfront — find us at the heart of St. Petersburg Waterfront District, across from the Salvador Dali Museum and Al Lang Stadium. The downtown trolley passes by our door, providing links to Tropicana Field stadium. Our palm-lined courtyard is home to a heated pool, and we boast a 24-hour fitness center. Cure cravings at our 1st St. Coffee Co., Tangerine Restaurant or Dali Lounge.
The Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront provides the perfect backdrop for the upcoming dance event on May 23rd and 24th, 2026.
Guest Experience
Between sessions, guests can recharge at the hotel's restaurant and lounge or relax in the lush tropical pool area, complete with a cozy fire pit for evening gatherings. Thoughtfully designed guest rooms support rest and recovery, while amenities like the fitness center and convenient access to downtown St. Petersburg make every stay comfortable and easy.
Contact Us
More Information
Please feel free to get in touch with us using the contact form provided. Alternatively, you can call or email directly.
Event Address
Email Address
Phone Numbers
(941) 807-0737 – Dean
(727) 455-9175 – Mario