Ballroom Spirit Tour Grand Final Shines in New York

Ballroom Spirit Tour Finalists 2024/2025

The grand stage of New York City became the center of the ballroom world as the Ballroom Spirit Tour Grand Final brought together five outstanding couples for a night of artistry, athleticism, and unforgettable performances. This event marked the culmination of the 2024–25 Ballroom Spirit Tour, a journey that featured five qualifying events across North America and brought together the best of competitive ballroom in an inspiring finale.

A Unique Formula: Judges and Audience Together

What made this Grand Final truly special was its balanced format. Couples were evaluated through their showdance programs, the five-dance international ballroom round, and the voices of fans through the audience vote. This combination highlighted not only precision and discipline, but also charisma and the ability to connect with spectators both in the ballroom and across the continent.

Parley Ford & Natalie Jolley: A Glorious Victory

Parley Ford & Natalie Jolley (#586) emerged as the champions of the evening, bringing together superb technical quality and extraordinary audience appeal. Their showdance, “Dark”, radiated intensity and sophistication. Dressed in striking black costumes, they created an atmosphere of mystery and allure, blending dramatic shapes with sweeping ballroom lines. Their partnering was seamless, and their chemistry gave the piece its emotional depth.

With a 95.43 showdance average, a strong five-dance performance, and an overwhelming 27.35 audience votes, their grand total of 137.78 secured them the championship. Their performance demonstrated how ballroom can combine artistry, power, and audience connection in radiant fashion.

Nathan Zaytsev & Alisa Bankova: Masters of Precision

Nathan Zaytsev & Alisa Bankova (#501) delivered a technically masterful performance that set the bar for excellence. Their showdance, “Loose Strings”, blended lyrical artistry with perfect precision. Alisa’s flowing costume enhanced their sweeping lines, while Nathan’s strength provided a grounded frame for their expressive choreography. Every movement carried musicality, balancing delicate extensions with powerful sweeps across the floor.

Their 95.71 showdance average was the highest of the evening, and their flawless 30 points in the five-dance round underlined their competitive mastery. With a grand total of 129.01, they earned second place, leaving an indelible impression on both judges and spectators.

Danylo Afonin & Stanislava Klishch: Elegant Balance

The bronze medal went to Danylo Afonin & Stanislava Klishch (#729), whose showdance “Mask” captured drama and elegance in equal measure. Their choreography played with mystery, alternating between poised stillness and bursts of energy that kept the audience engaged. Stanislava’s presence was expressive and magnetic, while Danylo’s partnering provided both strength and precision.

With a 94.00 showdance average, 24 five-dance points, and 8.45 audience votes, their total of 126.45 secured them a place on the podium. Their performance highlighted how storytelling and artistry can be beautifully integrated into a competitive setting.

Roman Shchochka & Marta Tyutyunnyk: Graceful and Strong

Roman Shchochka & Marta Tyutyunnyk (#551) enchanted the audience with their fairytale-inspired showdance, “Cinderella”. Marta, in a flowing blue gown, embodied the grace of the princess, while Roman’s regal presence gave the performance its strength and poise. The choreography blended sweeping ballroom lines with theatrical storytelling — from delicate turns to elegant lifts that suggested the magic of the ball.

Their 94.86 showdance average and strong five-dance marks brought them to a total of 123.21, earning them fourth place. Their graceful performance left the lasting impression of a dream fulfilled on the dance floor.

Christopher Affonso & Holly Hatleberg: Inspirational Performers

Completing the lineup, Christopher Affonso & Holly Hatleberg (#552) delighted the audience with their playful showdance, “Ratatouille”. Inspired by the beloved animated story, their performance was filled with humor, creativity, and crisp partnering. Holly’s expressive presence and Christopher’s animated character work gave the routine charm and variety, showcasing the lighter side of ballroom artistry.

Their 87.29 showdance average and a total of 100.84 points placed them fifth in the Grand Final, but their joyful performance added richness to the evening and reminded everyone that ballroom is as much about entertainment and connection as it is about competition.

A Celebration of Ballroom Spirit

The 2024–25 Ballroom Spirit Tour Grand Final in New York was not just about rankings — it was a celebration of dance in its purest form. From breathtaking showdances to the classic five-dance discipline, and from the precision of technique to the emotional impact of audience connection, each couple brought something unique to the stage.

With five qualifying events leading up to this moment, and with videos and photographs capturing these unforgettable performances, the Grand Final stands as a shining example of how ballroom unites artistry, athleticism, and community.

Final Scores at a Glance

Place	Couple	Show	Five-Dance	Audience Vote	Grand Total
🥇 1st	Parley Ford & Natalie Jolley (#586)	95.43	15	27.35	137.78
🥈 2nd	Nathan Zaytsev & Alisa Bankova (#501)	95.71	30	3.30	129.01
🥉 3rd	Danylo Afonin & Stanislava Klishch (#729)	94.00	24	8.45	126.45
4th	Roman Shchochka & Marta Tyutyunnyk (#551)	94.86	21	7.35	123.21
5th	Christopher Affonso & Holly Hatleberg (#552)	87.29	10	3.55	100.84