Starting Young - Building a Dance Career
Hi Dorotka, when did you start dancing, and what made you fall in love with it?
– I started at the age of 6 at a sports school in Poland, where we trained rhythmic gymnastics – a tough environment that also included basic ballet. When I moved to Sweden a year later, I joined a dance school, still doing gymnastics on the side. It felt like stepping into a completely different world. Here, there was joy, playfulness, a whole new energy – that’s when I truly fell for dance.
What styles of dance have you tried over the years, and which ones are closest to your heart?
– I started with jazz ballet, which really helped me technically – it made me a much better dancer overall. Then I explored various jazz styles, broadway, funk, street, and later got into hip-hop, house, dancehall, and West African dance. Those last four are especially dear to me. I’ve also trained specifically in those styles. I love when dance is expressive, energetic, and rooted in culture.
Dorotka Baburin.
How did your dance journey evolve from a hobby into what you do today?
– I danced a lot during my teens, in show groups, with amazing instructors, and gained both stage experience and discovered my talent for creating – choreography became a natural part of it. During high school and a year in the U.S., I danced in a dance company while also taking classes in different styles.
In the 90s, I tried aerobics in Gävle, Sweden and instantly fell in love with the mix of training and dance – it felt like coming home. I was asked to become an instructor… and yes, the rest is history. This year I’m celebrating 30 years as an instructor – just realized that now – definitely something to celebrate!
I took SAFE’s basic and advanced instructor training, which opened so many doors. I started presenting at big conventions both in Sweden and abroad, was sponsored by Adidas and later Nike, with gigs as both a dancer and a model. When Les Mills launched BODYJAM in the Nordics, they were looking for dance profiles – and that became the start of a long-term collaboration. It’s pretty amazing that I still teach BODYJAM – and still love it.
Is there a moment in your dance career you’ll never forget?
– Dancing and instructing at Globen (now Avicii Arena) in front of thousands of participants – it’s hard to top that. I especially remember one class where I brought in a live electric guitarist to play along at the end to Beat It by Michael Jackson. It was surreal. Unforgettable!
Have you had a role model or mentor in dance?
– So many have inspired me. I’ve danced for countless incredible teachers, but one who stands out is Per Jäderberg in Gävle – he pushed me hard in dance technique, and I’m incredibly grateful for that today. Among Swedish choreographers, I love Ambra Succi’s style. And back in the day, I was really inspired by Paula Abdul and Fatima Robinson.
Within Les Mills, Gandalf Archer Mills and Rachael Newsham have been especially important. I love how they combine music, movement, and coaching with warmth and humor – and a relaxed attitude in an otherwise performance-driven dance world.
SH'BAM 31 filming.
Dance as a Lifestyle - It's Therapy
How would you describe what dance means to you in everyday life?
– It’s my passion, my outlet, my lifeline. I call it “dance therapy” – no matter what you’re going through, an hour of dance helps. It lets me express my creativity and artistic side – it’s part of who I am.
How has dance affected your life outside the dance floor?
– It’s amazing exercise, of course, but also a way to be fully present in the moment. I think that’s why it feels so therapeutic. Socially, it’s also incredible – I’ve met so many people through dance. I’ve seen students go from shy and reserved to real performers on stage. It’s magic!
Always smiling on stage.
Has dance influenced other life choices – like career, education, or travel?
– Absolutely. It was through dance that I discovered group training, which led me to become an instructor, presenter, and educator. I eventually chose to study health education instead of going to dance university – but dance has always been by my side in my career.
How do you incorporate dance into your life today?
– I teach several classes a week – both BODYJAM, Les Mills Dance, and my own choreography classes. I run workshops, attend events, and try to take classes myself when I can. To keep up and stay injury-free, I also strength train at least twice a week. I’d love to take more classes in different styles – it gives me so much.
What would you say to someone who’s curious about starting to dance but feels hesitant?
– Try something simple to start – take a beginner class, ideally with a friend. Ask for recommendations for great instructors. There’s no right or wrong – the important thing is to give it a shot. And don’t compare yourself to others! If it feels safer, start with group fitness classes like Les Mills Dance – it’s a great gateway. But above all – don’t give up! It takes time to find your rhythm, but it’s so worth it.
Performance in Adidas Store.
Memories and Highlights
Tell us about a dance memory that made you feel especially alive.
– Les Mills Live 2013 when we filmed BODYJAM 68 at Globen. I was instructing to Levels by Avicii and the audience response was incredible – especially a group from Spain in the front row who cheered nonstop. I remember thinking: “This is life!”
Has there been a dance experience that really challenged you – and how did you get through it?
– In the beginning, I often felt like I wasn’t good enough – that others were better, cooler, more graceful. I constantly compared myself, which held me back. But then, at a convention one time, something shifted – I dared to be myself, and it was so liberating.
Have you participated in any event that left a particularly strong impression?
– So many! One I clearly remember is Les Mills Live (then called Super Saturday) at Eriksdalshallen in Stockholm, with Gandalf on stage. It wasn’t super flashy. Just a few spotlights, a backdrop – but it was pure joy. And of course, the SH’BAM tribute at Avicii Arena in 2023. It was an emotional farewell to a beloved program.
BODYJAM i Göteborg, Sweden.
Reflections and Inspiration
What have you learned about yourself through dance?
– That I need to create. I’m curious, creative, full of ideas and I ask a lot of questions! “no more questions” my husband says. And I have this inner performer who loves being on stage. Dance lets me be all of that.
How would you say dance can contribute to a richer life?
– Dance is joy in motion, therapy, energy, and a way to express yourself. You lose track of time and space, get lost in the music – and along the way, you gain friends for life.
What’s the best thing about the dance community, in your opinion?
– It’s so inclusive. Especially in the group fitness world. There’s warmth, support – we cheer each other on. And you quickly become part of something bigger – many instructors and participants have become lifelong friends.
If you could wish for anything regarding the future of dance, what would it be?
– I wish dance schools offered more opportunities and classes at more levels – for all ages. Sometimes there’s a big focus on learning tons of choreography super fast, which makes it less accessible, especially for beginners or those returning after a break who need more time and guidance. I wish more people dared to try dance classes and let go of the idea that it’s “not for them.” So to today’s youth I’d say: dare to try – and be patient!
