Michael Odikadze
Co-founder and Head Coach of Odika Dance
- Championship Level Licensed Adjudicator with The National Dance Council of America
- Professional Choreographer with 30+ years of teaching experience
Born in Tbilisi in the Republic of Georgia, Michael Odikadze started dancing at the age of 9. But when he was 14 years old, Michael was introduced to the world of ballroom dance, which ignited a lifelong passion for the sport.
Michael quickly rose to prominence as a successful dancer. As a youth competitor, he was the undefeated National Champion in Georgia, competing in Latin, Standard, and 10-dance. He continued his amateur career, successfully competing both styles in Georgia, Russia, and multiple international competitions, as well as Open to the World events. He also went on to achieve recognition as a National Category Certification Judge.
As a youth, Michael was already helping coaches train new dancers and continued his dedication to coaching as he became a studio owner. With over 30 years of teaching experience, he has devoted his career to teaching and sharing his passion for dance with his students.
Michael graduated from the Stage and Theatre Art College and the prestigious University of Choreography in Georgia. He went on to perform with the most popular dance group in show business at the time, touring extensively around the former Soviet Union and abroad. During his 18 years with this group, Michael’s innovative choreography earned him praise and recognition, and with the group he was invited to work with some of the biggest stars in the industry, garnering fame for his performances on television and in music videos.
When he came to the U.S. in 2005, Michael was invited to teach at the biggest ballroom dance studio in the Boston area, where he worked for 9 years, teaching both social and competitive dancing at a very high level. Many of the couples he coached became finalists and prizewinners in major competitions nationwide and abroad, with several of his students earning the title of US Champions.
Now as the co-founder and co-owner of Odika Dance, Michael continues to dance competitively with his pro/am students, competing in both American and International styles – Latin, Standard, Rhythm, and Smooth. As a Championship-Level Adjudicator with The National Dance Council of America, Michael continues to share his expertise, knowledge, and passion with students of all levels. From the over 100 wedding dances and first-dance experiences he’s choreographed, to his competitive open-level students, Michael’s creativity and lifelong commitment to the art of dancesport make him one of the most sought-after coaches in the Boston area.
