Empowering Lives Through Movement & Connection

Aleksandar Bonev is a professional dancer, instructor, choreographer, and founder of North Shore Dance Society in Glencoe, Illinois. Originally from Ruse, Bulgaria, he began dancing at the age of six, developing a foundation in Bulgarian folk dance, ballroom, and modern dance. His international training and performance career led him to become a professional dancer on Bailando, Bulgaria’s version of Dancing with the Stars, and a Principal dancer for Impulse Ballet, one of Bulgaria’s prominent dance companies. After moving to the United States in 2011, Aleksandar combined his artistic expertise with his business background to build a dance community rooted in excellence, personal growth, and the belief that dance should be accessible to everyone.

As the founder of North Shore Dance Society, Aleksandar has dedicated himself to helping dancers of all ages and experience levels discover their potential. Teaching more than 70 lessons each week, he works with students ranging from beginners discovering dance for the first time to competitive Pro/Am dancers pursuing ambitious goals. His expertise spans International Latin and Standard, as well as American Rhythm and Smooth. Recognized among the top instructors at major DanceSport competitions throughout the United States, Aleksandar is known for his creativity, musicality, versatility, and unwavering commitment to his students’ progress - both on and off the dance floor.

Throughout his competitive career, Aleksandar earned professional finalist placements in American Rhythm and American Smooth at competitions across the country, including a semifinalist placement in the RS Open Professional Smooth division at the prestigious Ohio Star Ball. He also brought his vision to life by organizing the Extravaganza DanceSport Showcase, creating opportunities for dancers to perform, compete, and celebrate their achievements. Beyond the competitive arena, Aleksandar devoted seven years to sharing the joy and transformative power of movement with individuals with special needs at Misericordia, reflecting his belief that dance can foster connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging.

Today, Aleksandar continues to combine his passion for dance with a broader commitment to human development and well-being. After retiring from professional competition in 2023, he chose to focus on his family, his students, and his pursuit of a career in mental health counseling. Recently obtaining master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling, he is deepening his understanding of the relationship between movement, emotional well-being, and personal growth. Through his teaching and leadership at North Shore Dance Society, Aleksandar strives to create more than skilled dancers - he aims to help people build confidence, overcome limitations, express themselves authentically, and experience the lasting impact of dance in their lives.