PROFESSIONAL BIO
CELEBRITY PARTNER: Kelly Osbourne
BACKGROUND:
Trivia time—did you know that in addition to competing in five previous seasons of the show, this Emmy-nominated dancer is also the coach of fellow
DWTS pro Dmitry Chaplin?
Louis van Amstel began his dance career at an early age, training in a theatre school and gaining a solid background in ballet, tap, and jazz. Upon graduating, Louis attended the University of the Arts in Amsterdam to further strengthen his skills in the classical dances and theory.
Upon immigrating to the United States, Louis quickly became the U.S. National Latin Champion in 2000 and founded the company VanDance, LLC. Through VanDance Louis directed, choreographed and performed in Latin Fusion, a feature production on Broadway.
Louis has a strong psychological approach to teaching. He trains under legendary dance guru Dr. Ruud Vermeij, who has a holistic approach towards dancing. Louis is also a student of Laban choreology and is well-versed in human movement dynamics.
Additionally, van Amstel has appeared on
The Suite Life of Zack and Cody,
All My Children and
So You Think You Can Dance.
ACHIEVEMENTS:
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- United States Professional Latin American champion (2000)
- Seven-Time Dutch National Amateur Champion
- World Professional Showdance Champion ('96)
- Professional World Latin Finalist (1996)
- European Amateur Latin Champion ('95)
- World Amateur Latin Champion ('94, '95)
- Grand Slam Latin Champion ('95)
PRIOR CELEBRITY PARTNERS:
Priscilla Presley
Monique Coleman
Lisa Rinna
Trista Rehn Sutter