Ásta Sigvaldadóttir Interview | From Iceland to Dance Champion

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Ásta Sigvaldadóttir

Professional Ballroom Dancer, Coach, Choreographer and Adjudicator

“From Iceland to the world stage, Asta Sigvaldadottir turned a lifelong obsession with dance into an international career built on discipline, reinvention, and resilience.”

Featured on August 30th 2026

Asta Sigvaldadottir is an internationally recognized ballroom dancer, coach, adjudicator, and educator whose journey through dance has taken her across Iceland, Denmark, England, Poland, Russia, and the United States. Known for her resilience, discipline, and unique artistic identity, Asta built her career through years of relentless work, personal sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to growth. After beginning dance at a young age, Ásta’s life changed when her family moved to Denmark, where she immersed herself completely in the world of competitive ballroom dance. From training daily and living at the studio to eventually becoming a Danish champion, she developed the grit and competitive mindset that would later define her international career. Her professional journey led her through multiple countries and partnerships, eventually bringing her to the United States, where she became widely known in both International Latin and American Rhythm. Together with partner Andrew Esco, Ásta helped redefine the modern approach to American Rhythm by emphasizing deeper mechanics, artistry, and technical clarity within the style. Today, Ásta continues to inspire dancers around the world through teaching, judging, mentorship, and educational platforms like Rhythm Lab, where she shares high-level dance knowledge with the next generation of performers. Beyond dance, she is admired for her honesty, humility, loyalty, and belief that individuality not perfection is what truly creates greatness.

Signature Quote

“Don’t be afraid to let go of what no longer feels right — sometimes knowing when to walk away is what allows you to grow.”

Key Takeaways

From Pigeon-Toed Beginner to Champion - Ásta reveals she wasn't naturally gifted, was pigeon-toed, needed insoles and doctors, and considered herself one of the weaker dancers. That's a fantastic setup considering what she eventually became.
Moving to Denmark Changed Everything - At 13, she didn't even want to leave Iceland. Denmark unexpectedly became the environment where dance went from a hobby to something serious.
Two Suitcases and a Dream: Moving to London - At 19, she saves money working at an insurance company, tells her parents she's not going to school, grabs two suitcases and moves to London to pursue dance.
“I’m Not Naturally a Dancer” - One of the strongest character moments. Ásta openly admits dance didn't come easily to her and explains why grit and commitment can matter more than natural ability.
The Reality of Dating Your Dance Partner - Ásta and Denise get into what happens when your romantic and professional lives become inseparable. Vulnerability, boundaries, emotions and competition all collide.
She Almost Moved to Russia — Then Chose America - She had her Russian work visa and was essentially ready to go, then the U.S. opportunity appeared and she changed direction at the last minute.
“Sometimes Giving Up Is Good” - This is probably the emotional centerpiece of the episode. After nearly 11 years with a partner, she realizes stubborn persistence isn't always strength: know when to exit. This also connects beautifully to the show's “starting over” theme.
Why Ásta Risked Her Career to Switch to American Rhythm - After her Latin career abruptly ended, she wasn't satisfied with simply disappearing. Despite roughly “90%” of people questioning the decision, she followed her instinct, partnered with Andrew Escolme, and reinvented herself.
Why Being Different Is Your Greatest Asset - Excellent broader-life section. Ásta talks about dancers copying champions instead of developing their own identity—and argues that the thing you think makes you different may actually become your greatest strength.
What Actually Makes a Superstar? - Perfect philosophical conclusion. Rapid fire: Consistency. Impact over fame. Discipline over talent. Then Ásta defines a superstar through dedication, humility, obsession, positive energy and being a good ambassador.

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