BIOGRAPHY

Kristina Rihanoff was born in Siberia, Russia. As a competitive dancer since the age of 7, Kristina’s years of dancing experience extends from the standard styles of ballet and Latin, to Rhythm and Theatre Arts. Her passion and exceptional talent, has seen her become a renowned dancer to audiences all over the World.
 
Having spent her early years in Russia where she was first introduced to dance, Kristina relocated to the United States in 2001. By this time she had gained an honourable Master’s degree in Tourism and Hospitality, and moved to the United States to advance her career. It was during this time she was introduced to new style of dances she is known for today, including the Salsa, Mambo and American Rhythm. It was in the USA that she devoted her life to competitive dance. She went on to tour the World winning a number of titles along the way, some of her achievements include : first place in the South African International Latin Championship (2005-2006) and second in the US National American Rhythm Finals (2003-2005.) Second in the Open to the World, Mambo Championship (2003-2004). She went on to represent the USA at the World Exhibition at the Blackpool Dance Festival, subsequently placing second in the Theatre Dance category.
 
After retiring from competitive dance, Kristina joined the Dancing on Stars tour in the winter of 2007/2008. Less than a year later, she moved to London to join the cast of Strictly Come Dancing, where she was partnered with the Political Broadcaster John Sergeant. It was at this time she won the hearts of the British Public impressing viewers with her fearless dance prowess and professional routines. She was also part of the 2009 series, where she was partnered with the boxing sensation Joe Clazaghe. 2009 was also a busy year for Kristina as she was seen on the BBC3 show ‘ Dancing on Wheels’, alongside Professional partner Brian Fortuna. For the first time in her career, Kristina choreographed for Wheel chair dance in the hope to promote the sport in Britain, describing it as an ‘ Inspirational experience’.  

In addition to her dance craft, Kristina has extensive knowledge and experience of stage make up, having studied in Russia. She has her own book published on the topic – ‘The Art of Dancesport Make – Up’, which aims to teach newcomers to competitive ballroom. She is also the Celebrity Ambassador for the St Tropez Perfect legs tanning, and has been involved with a number of other commercial brands including Glo Minerals make up range who she is a huge fan of. Kristina also finds time to participate in alot of Charity work.  In 2009 she modelled the Pink Vest to raise money for the Breast Cancer campaign’

2010 has been another whirlwind year for Kristina. She toured with her fellow dancers and Celebrities in the Strictly Come Dancing series 7 tour, at the start of the year. She later went on an extensive tour of the UK with her professional partner Brian, performing their showcase to sold out theatres alongside comedian Mike Newman Jr. Shortly after, Kristina embarked on yet another sold out tour alongside 7 other world class dancers, from the smash hit TV series Strictly Come Dancing. This sensational show, ‘ The Professionals Tour’, was the first of its kind, concentrating on the flawless routines of the dancers, with not a judge or celebrity in sight.

Kristina will be on our screens again this winter in series 8 of Strictly Come Dancing.