Simone Arena: The Journey of an Italian Dance Maestro
Simone Arena, born on August 7, 1991, in Catania, Italy, has carved a name for himself as a professional dancer and choreographer, dazzling audiences worldwide with his incredible talent and dedication. Known for his appearances on various international versions of Dancing with the Stars and his championship-level achievements, Simone Arena’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and success.
Quick Info
| Category | Celebrity |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Simone Arena |
| Date of Birth | August 7, 1991 |
| Birthplace | Catania, Italy |
| Height | 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in) |
| Profession | Dancer, Choreographer |
| Notable Shows | Dancing with the Stars (Belgium, Italy, Ireland) |
| Partner | Michelle Tsiakkas |
| Key Achievements | Vice Italian Latin Champion, Winner of Dancing with the Stars Belgium |
| Known For | Ballroom and Latin Dance Expertise |
Early Life and Introduction to Dance
Simone Arena began his journey into the world of dance at the tender age of seven. Growing up in Catania, Italy, he quickly showed an exceptional talent for ballroom and Latin dance styles. By the age of sixteen, he had already claimed the title of Vice Italian Latin Champion, signaling the arrival of a new star in the world of competitive dance.
The Amateur Dancing Career
Simone’s amateur dancing career was marked by remarkable partnerships and notable achievements. In 2007, he briefly teamed up with Maria Laureante before forming a long-standing partnership with Federica Zapulla. The duo enjoyed significant success, including a top-ten finish at the IDSF Open in Maribor, Slovenia.
Between 2009 and 2010, Simone partnered with Malene Meihlen, achieving their best result at an IDSF International Open in Aarhus, Denmark. He later teamed up with Slovakian dancer Linda Manduchova and, subsequently, with Alessia Vernuccio. Simone and Alessia secured a podium finish at the WDSF Open in Ancona, Italy, in 2012, highlighting Simone’s growing prowess in the dance world.
Professional Career and Global Recognition
Simone Arena’s professional career took off in 2014 when he joined the renowned Broadway production Burn the Floor. Touring globally, he performed in prestigious venues, including London’s West End, and traveled to countries such as China, Australia, and Japan. His association with Burn the Floor has spanned over a decade, showcasing his versatility and dedication as a performer.
In 2019, Simone joined the cast of Somnium: A Dancer’s Dream alongside Strictly Come Dancing professionals Katya Jones and Neil Jones. The production further solidified his reputation as one of the premier dancers in the industry.
Dancing with the Stars Appearances
Simone Arena’s journey with Dancing with the Stars has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Belgium
In December 2021, Simone joined the Belgian version of Dancing with the Stars for its third season. Partnered with Olympic gymnast Nina Derwael, the duo mesmerized audiences with their performances, ultimately winning the competition in February 2022. Their dances, marked by precision and creativity, earned them top scores week after week.
Italy
Simone’s talent was recognized in his home country as he joined Ballando con le Stelle, the Italian version of Dancing with the Stars, in its seventeenth season. Partnered with TV presenter Marta Flavi, their journey ended prematurely as they were the first couple eliminated. Simone later expressed dissatisfaction with the production and confirmed he would not return to the show.
Ireland
In 2023, Simone Arena became a professional dancer on the Irish version of Dancing with the Stars. Partnered with RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Blu Hydrangea, the pair made history by earning the most perfect scores in a single season. They finished as joint runners-up, leaving an indelible mark on the competition. Simone is set to return for the show’s eighth season in 2025, partnering with Yasmin Seky, an actress from the hit series Kin.
Personal Life
Off the dance floor, Simone Arena is in a loving relationship with Michelle Tsiakkas, a fellow professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing. The couple met during a Burn the Floor tour and have been together ever since, sharing their passion for dance and supporting each other’s careers.
Achievements and Legacy
Simone Arena’s career is a testament to his dedication to the art of dance. From winning championships in his youth to captivating audiences on global stages, his journey has been nothing short of inspiring. As a dancer, choreographer, and mentor, Simone continues to push boundaries and elevate the world of ballroom and Latin dance.
With his towering height of 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in) and his charismatic presence, Simone commands attention both on and off the stage. His commitment to his craft and his ability to connect with his audience make him a standout figure in the dance community.
The Future of Simone Arena
As Simone Arena continues to shine on the international stage, his contributions to the world of dance remain invaluable. Whether performing, teaching, or inspiring the next generation of dancers, Simone’s legacy is bound to endure. With his upcoming participation in Dancing with the Stars Ireland and his ongoing collaboration with Burn the Floor, the future looks incredibly bright for this Italian dance maestro.
