ABOUT WESTMOR BALLROOM
A Family, a Ballroom,
and The City That Loves Both.
OUR HISTORY
A Legacy That Continues With Every Dance
For nearly a century, the Westmor Ballroom has been more than a dance studio—it has been a place where artistry, dedication, and unforgettable moments come to life. Every step taken across its floor becomes part of a story that stretches from Hollywood's Golden Age to today's thriving dance community.
Where Hollywood's Dance Legends Began
Long before it became known as Westmor Ballroom, this historic space was home to the renowned Ernest Belcher Dance Studio, one of Southern California's most influential dance institutions.
Ernest Belcher was an accomplished ballet dancer, choreographer, and instructor whose expertise extended well beyond classical ballet. His studio became a training ground for some of the most celebrated performers of the twentieth century, attracting legendary talents including Fred Astaire, Shirley Temple, Cyd Charisse, Maria Tallchief, and countless other performers who helped define Hollywood's Golden Age.
A Studio Filled With History
The stories woven into these walls are extraordinary. Marg Belcher grew up dancing in this very studio, while Shirley Temple earned her third-grade ballet certification here as a young performer before becoming one of Hollywood's brightest stars.
For generations, dancers have refined their craft beneath these ceilings, carrying forward a tradition of excellence that continues to inspire everyone who walks through our doors.
The Westmor Ballroom has hosted a veritable who’s who of professional ballroom dancers. The talent that has graced the floor at the Westmor include world champion dancers, legends in the Dancesport community, Dancing with the Stars celebrities, and competitors in American Smooth.
OUR TEAM
A New Generation Takes the Floor
As the years passed, the ballroom became a destination for competitive ballroom dancers, accomplished instructors, social dancers, and performers from around the world. While styles and generations have evolved, the spirit of the Westmor has remained the same: a place where passion for dance is celebrated, excellence is nurtured, and lifelong memories are created.
Today, whether you're taking your very first dance lesson, preparing for competition, celebrating your wedding, or hosting an unforgettable event, you're becoming part of a legacy nearly 100 years in the making.
LITHUANIA → LOS ANGELES
Lilia Padriezas
OWNER & DANCE INSTRUCTOR
Lilia Padriezas is the co-owner of Westmor Ballroom, an accomplished ballroom dance professional, and a certified teacher and adjudicator recognized by the National Dance Council of America (NDCA) and the World Dance Council (WDC).
She began dancing at the age of six and has been a finalist in some of the most prestigious ballroom dance competitions in the United States and around the world. With decades of experience, Lilia is passionate about sharing her love of dance through exceptional instruction, whether teaching beginners, preparing couples for their first dance, or coaching competitive dancers.
Known for her warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail, Lilia is dedicated to helping every student and guest create unforgettable memories at Westmor Ballroom.
Lilia and Valdas have been featured on numerous television productions, including guests star performers on Dharma & Greg, the Oprah Winfrey Show, and Cherish the Day. They have also performed and provided choreography for TV series Germany's Next Topmodel.
Valdas Padriezas
OWNER & DANCE INSTRUCTOR
Valdas Padriezas is the co-owner of Westmor Ballroom, an accomplished ballroom dance professional, and a certified teacher and adjudicator recognized by the National Dance Council of America (NDCA) and the World Dance Council (WDC).
He began dancing at the age of 11 and has been dancing with his wife and partner, Lilia, since the age of 17. Together, they have been finalists in some of the most prestigious ballroom dance competitions in the United States and around the world. With decades of experience, Valdas is passionate about helping students of all levels develop confidence, elegance, and a lifelong love of dance.
Known for his patient teaching style, professionalism, and dedication to every student, Valdas takes pride in creating a welcoming environment where couples, social dancers, and competitive students can achieve their goals while enjoying the beauty of ballroom dancing.
Uros Markovic
DANCE INSTRUCTOR
Born and raised in Serbia, Uros began ballroom dancing at just seven years old and quickly rose through the ranks of competitive dance. He became the National Champion of Serbia in both Ballroom and Latin dance and proudly represented his country at four World Championships, establishing an accomplished international career as a competitive dancer.
As a professional performer, Uros has shared the stage with some of Europe's most celebrated recording artists, including Balkan superstar Jelena Karleuša during her sold-out "All About Diva Show" at the Belgrade Arena. His passion for dance has taken him around the globe in world-class productions and live performances. In 2025, Uros was honored to appear as a guest artist during the U.S. tour of legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli.
In addition to his dance career, Uros is an accomplished international model and actor. He has appeared in national and global advertising campaigns for leading brands including Chevrolet, Toyota, Gillette, Jim Beam, Marriott, Bosch, and Meta.
Today, Uros brings his world-class performance experience, championship-level technique, and passion for teaching to every lesson at Westmor Ballroom. Whether you're taking your very first dance class or training for competition, his approachable coaching style and extensive professional background help students of every level build confidence, refine technique, and enjoy the art of dance.
Anna
DANCE INSTRUCTOR
Kiril Kish
DANCE INSTRUCTOR
THE NEXT CHAPTER IS YOURS
MAKE HISTORY WITH US
The history of Westmor Ballroom began with Hollywood legends. It continued through generations of world-class dancers and teachers. Today, that story continues with every lesson, every celebration, every performance, and every person who enters our doors.