Bob Powers & Julia Gorchakova
Julia Gorchakova was born in St. Petersburg, Russia. She was trained in International style of dance in both the Latin and the Ballroom dances. She competed as a junior throughout Russia and Japan winning numerous competitions as an amateur. Julia taught ballroom dancing to children at the local schools in St. Petersburg where she lived. Bob Powers was born in Philadelphia, PA and started dancing after seeing the movie Saturday Night Fever. He started teaching at an Arthur Murray Studio at age 18. Bob taught at, and managed the studio for 16 years He is a member of the International Dance Board of Arthur Murray International as well as a certified examiner in all styles of dance. Bob and Julia met in St. Petersburg, Russia while Bob was there on a dance tour with another partner. After dancing with one another at a local studio party hosted by Julia's mother, the two decided to try out together. Through an interpreter they decided to have Julia move to the U.S. for a period of one month during which time they would consider a long-term commitment. Three years later they were married. Bob and Julia are 12 time U.S. Rhythm Champions as well as the 2001 World Mambo Champs. The two have performed throughout the U.S., Canada, China, Russia, Germany, England, and Japan. They have been featured on PBS's "Championship Ballroom Dancing" as well as "The Heritage Classic" hosted by Cyd Charisse.