
Bio
Maria Mesheryakova, aka Masha, was born in Moscow, Russia, and moved to the
United States when she was about 10 months old. Her family settled directly in Las Vegas, NV,
due to work and business opportunities. Masha has one brother, making four members in their
immediate family, and she has lived in Las Vegas her entire life since the move.
Raised in a household where Russian was spoken at home, both Masha and her brother grew
up fluent in the language. Their mother enrolled them in dance at a young age, and they trained
extensively in pre-professional ballet. While her brother continued to pursue ballet
professionally, Masha found her passion for ballroom dance at age 17 after teaching ballet
classes at a local ballroom dance studio.
Following a break from ballet due to several ankle injuries, Masha began training in ballroom
dance. Now 25 years old, she has been dedicated to ballroom for 7 years, both training and
teaching. She feels a strong connection to the style’s purpose, movement, and energy.
Like many dancers, Masha dreams of reaching the highest levels of professional dancing and
teaching. She aspires to perform on the world stage and share her passion for ballroom with
dancers worldwide. Traveling, competing, and passing on her knowledge are one of her biggest
dreams and goals. “I hope to one day compete and perform all over the world – this is my
dream!”
Throughout her journey, Masha has had the opportunity to train with and meet some of the
greatest dancers, mentors, and supporters. She is continuing to grow her presence in the dance
community and works hard at anything she feels brings her closer to her dreams. She is deeply
grateful to everyone who has been part of her life—whether students, friends, teachers, or
colleagues. “Everyone that passes through my life is important!”
Outside of dance, Masha enjoys spending time with her family and her adorable boy dog,
Misha, a Shiba Inu who is just as curious about the world as Masha. Misha is Mashas baby, as
Masha does not have any kids – yet! One of her favorite dog breeds is the Shiba Inu. Together,
they love to travel and explore new cities, environments and people watch! She also enjoys
cooking, baking, trying new foods, and staying active with fitness and new group classes that
test and challenge her body.
Despite these interests, dance remains the greatest source of joy and fulfillment in Masha’s life.
She says she has never felt happier than when she’s at the dance studio. “Dance gives me an
outlet for emotions to escape—even when I need a break from dancing, I still find myself drawn
back to more dancing!”
Masha’s greatest message to her students is to never give up on their dreams. “I encourage all
of you to risk everything for what you want to achieve, align yourself with your goals, be
confident in your decision and success will follow! I can’t wait to see your dancing shine!

Awards & Achievements
Currently being written and organized… check back in later to see what’s new!

Fun Facts
Favorite Style: Latin — especially Rumba for its grace and expression.
Go-To Dance Song: Any song — she’ll find a way to move to it! 🎶
Pre-Class Drink: Coffee in the morning, tea later in the day.
Snack: Nuts, fruit, and chocolate — all-day fuel! 🍫
Fun Talent: Speaks English & Russian, sews her own dresses, and once danced ballet nearly professionally! 🩰
Started Dancing: Began teaching ballet at a Las Vegas studio at 17 — and fell in love with ballroom!
Hardest Style: “They all have their challenges.”
Biggest Inspiration: Her coaches, teachers, and family — “They make anything feel possible.”
Performance Nerves?: “Nervous and excited are the same — I choose excited!”
Best Advice for Beginners: Keep dancing — through the hard days and the good ones.
Favorite Part of Teaching: Watching students realize how much they’ve grown.
Funniest Class Moments: “Every day with kids — they always have the funniest stories!”
Most-Used Phrases: “Let’s go!” “Again!” and “See? That was good!”
How She Keeps Class Fun: By getting to know her students and keeping things positive. 🌟
Heels or Sneakers? Sneakers (heels for fancy days!)
Sparkles or Solids? Sparkles — always! ✨
Lead or Follow? Follow… but still leads her partner 😉
Waltz or Cha-Cha? Cha-Cha on the beach, Waltz at the party!
Dream Dance Partner: “Anyone who inspires me to be better — or can I be the celebrity?” 😄