Jani and Viktoria Szukk
Jani and Viktoria Szukk are the husband-and-wife powerhouse behind Derby City Ballroom in Louisville, Kentucky. Born and classically trained in Hungary, both carved out elite competitive careers before bringing their European flair to the Bluegrass. Viktoria is a six-time undefeated Hungarian National Latin Champion, having leapt from ballet slippers into the Latin spotlight at age five. Jani’s résumé is equally distinguished; he launched his professional career in 1995 and was a World Latin Formation Dance finalist during the early 1990s. Since relocating to the United States, the Szukks have become pillars of Louisville’s dance scene. Through their studio they coach everyone from social beginners and wedding couples to serious competitors, covering Ballroom, Latin, Swing, Salsa and Country-Western styles. Students praise their crisp choreography, patient instruction and infectious enthusiasm, qualities that have guided hundreds to competitive success and fueled community showcases for local charities. Away from the dance floor, the pair channel that same drive into real-estate ventures—Jani and Viktoria are both active Louisville Realtors—while raising two daughters. Blending old-world technique with warm Kentucky hospitality, the Szukks continue to elevate Louisville’s ballroom culture and prove that a little Hungarian spice can make magic in the heartland.
