Boston Tea Party 2026 – Ballroom Dancing at Its Finest in Boston
Did you know that sometimes one competition can feel like stepping into another world? That’s exactly what Boston Tea Party 2026 felt like for our dancers at MI Fiesta Dance Studio. From February 20–22, our team had the incredible opportunity to compete at one of Boston’s most stunning venues, the iconic Fairmont Copley Plaza. The grand ballroom, with its breathtaking fresco ceilings and classic architectural details, created an atmosphere that felt like a little piece of Blackpool in the heart of Boston. And for MI Fiesta, this wasn’t just another event. It was our first time competing at Boston Tea Party — and it exceeded every expectation.
Boston Tea Party 2026 – Friday Rhythm & Masquerade Magic
The weekend kicked off Friday morning with American Rhythm.
Sharon Pywell competed in the Senior 2 Bronze category in the 3-Dance Scholarship Closed Bronze S2 American Rhythm event (Cha Cha, Rumba, Swing). In only her second competition, Sharon earned 1st place out of four couples. Watching her confidence grow from one competition to the next is exactly why we love what we do.
But Friday night took a dramatic turn — in the best way possible.
The Night Club themed event, The Masquerade Ball, was held in the hotel’s elegant Oval Room. Competitors wore masks and formal attire, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a Venetian carnival. Eleanor Paglia and Irina Shapeton competed in Salsa, Bachata, and Hustle, earning first place in every category they danced.
The night wasn’t just about placements. It was about celebration. Before the costumes and spotlights, our dancers continued a MI Fiesta tradition — sharing a team dinner together. Because yes, we compete… but more importantly, we grow together.
Join Us for a Free Intro Lesson!
Saturday – Smooth Elegance & A Show-Stopping Performance
Saturday morning brought American Smooth to the grand ballroom floor, and the energy shifted from dynamic rhythm to sweeping elegance.
Eleanor competed in the Bronze C category in the 3-Dance Scholarship Closed Bronze C American Smooth (Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot). This marked her third Smooth competition — and her first time performing Viennese Waltz. Out of seven competitors, she earned a strong 2nd place finish in a very tight field. Her confidence in using the large floor space and shaping through musical phrasing was a beautiful progression to witness.
Irina competed in one of the weekend’s most competitive divisions: 4-Dance Scholarship Closed Silver S1 American Smooth (Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz). Due to the size of the field, a semifinal round was required. Irina advanced confidently to the final and finished an impressive 5th place, just shy of 4th. Reaching a final in such a strong field is a serious accomplishment.
Saturday also featured one of the weekend’s highlights — a special show performance by Stewart and Mariasha, joined by the Jani Dance team. The exhibition piece captivated both judges and audience members alike. The performance received outstanding marks and enthusiastic applause, adding a powerful artistic moment to an already memorable day. It was a reminder that ballroom dancing is not just competition — it’s storytelling, artistry, and connection.
Why Competitions Matter
People often ask: why compete?
Because competitions give structure to training.
They create focus.
They accelerate growth.
They reveal strengths — and areas to refine.
After every competition, we return to the studio with clear goals. We know exactly what to polish, what to strengthen, and what to elevate next time.
But even beyond the results, what truly matters are the shared meals, the backstage laughs, the nervous excitement before stepping on the floor, and that one look between partners that says, “We’re ready.”
For us, Boston Tea Party 2026 wasn’t just a competition.
It was an experience. A celebration. A collective victory.
Ballroom Dancing Near Newton
While Boston Tea Party 2026 took place in downtown Boston, your ballroom journey can start much closer to home.
MI Fiesta Dance Studio offers ballroom dance lessons in:
📍 Waltham
📍 Natick
Both locations are extremely convenient for students coming from Newton, Watertown, Weston, Wellesley, and Lexington. Many of our Newton students choose our Waltham location because it’s just minutes away and easy to access.
You don’t need experience.
You don’t need a partner.
You don’t need rhythm.
You just need to start.
👉 Claim your free intro ballroom dance lesson here:
https://mifiestadance.com/intro-ballroom-dance-lesson/
