photo credit: © Genevieve Parker Photography
American Smooth Coach
BIOGRAPHY
Kris Suakjian was born and raised in Fresno, California where his primary interests as a child and teen were sports. He trained and excelled in Football, Soccer, Baseball and Track, giving him the athleticism and coordination necessary to continue into the artistic arena of dance.
He captured the attention of a Fred Astaire representative during a school dance, who convinced him to audition for a teacher training program. Passing with flying colors, he continued on to teach and compete with his students in American Smooth and Rhythm.
At the same time, he attended college and earned his degree in Psychology, making the decision to become a full-time independent Ballroom professional after graduation.
He started competing with his professional Rhythm partner in 2004 and became a United States Rising Star Finalist in 2007. Taking advantage of his strength and agility, he also taught theatre arts and achieved the United States and World Pro/Am Theatre Arts titles in 2005, 2006, and 2007.
He continued his training in International Ballroom and Latin and by 2010, he and his professional partner had earned the United States Professional Rising Star American Smooth title and became a World Open Professional American Smooth Finalist.
He has choreographed and assisted on the show “So You Think You Can Dance” with Toni Redpath and Toni Meredith, and has also worked on “Dancing With The Stars” helping Donnie Osmond and Kim with Heather Smith.
Titles & Accomplishments
- U.S. Professional Rising Star American Smooth Champion
- World Open Professional American Smooth Finalist
- 3x World & U.S. Pro/Am Theatre Arts Champion
Video
Coaching Style
Kris’s coaching style is highlighted by his wit, humor and ease in showing others how to use their strengths to their advantage. His videos share vital information for competitors in a manner that is entertaining and down-to-earth for any dancer, no matter at what level they are.
