Biography
Australian born and of Russian descent, dancer and choreographer Henry Byalikov is the true definition of a triple threat.
Henry danced his way into the entertainment industry after finishing in the top four men on the first season of "So You Think You Can Dance Australia", which solidified his place as one of Australia's top dancers and the best ballroom dancer in the country as he beat out all others in the competition. Henry's talents were in demand as he became a professional on "Dancing With The Stars" in Australia, and then represented Australia in the international dance competition show "Superstars of Dance" on NBC, where he received third place with his partner.
Henry was then hand picked as a professional dancer in the Broadway stage production "Burn The Floor" at the Longacre theatre in NYC. After the show's run was complete Henry took time to expand his artistry and he studied ballet and gymnastics. Always being one to give 110% at everything he does, Henry mastered the beautiful art of ballet and was cast as a principal dancer in one of Australia's leading Contemporary Ballet companies run by Graeme Murphy, called "MOD Dance Company - Suite Synergy". Henry received rave reviews for his feature performances. Australian Stage remarked of Henry, "he creates the fire, passion, and a build of tension that such a piece demands and deserves." Dance Australia raved "Standouts included Henry Byalikov in Tap Attack, whose powerful intensity of focus and dramatic use of footwork, upper torso and arms unfortunately showed up the inadequacies of the accompanying quartet of dancers in this style."
When Henry auditioned for the hit show "So You Think You Can Dance" in the U.S. with his then dance partner Giselle Peacock, the judges offered incredible praise for their Latin ballroom routine. Mia Michaels called the routine "Smokin!" and director/choreographer Adam Shankman remarked that Henry and Giselle "tore up that floor and were fantastic." Show creator and judge Nigel Lythgoe called Henry and Giselle "sensational dancers" and raved "The last time I saw you was in "Burn The Floor" and you had other "stars" in "Burn The Floor" but you two were the stars for me and you continue to be the stars. You were absolutely fabulous."
Henry moved on to work in the musical workshop of "King Kong." He was also a featured dancer in "The Great Gatsby" and was a rehearsal partner to the film's star Carrie Mulligan. In 2012, Henry was sought out to be part of ABC's hit show "Dancing With The Stars" where he danced both in the Troupe and as a professional partnered with long-distance swimmer, Diana Nyad.
Henry dances with Paralympian athlete and "Dancing with the Stars" finalist Amy Purdy at charity benefits and special events across the country. Most recently the pair danced in front of 10,000 guests at the Million Dollar Round Table event in New Orleans featuring an audience of CEOs from around the world and at the Challenged Athletes Foundation's annual gala in New York City.
Henry's gift of dance landed him onstage as a featured dancer for the legendary Gladys Knight's concert at The Hollywood Bowl. In June 2015, Henry was featured as a principal dancer in the sold out massive success live dance spectacular "Sway: A Dance Trilogy" at Hammerstein Ballroom, which was created, produced and also starred his friends Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Valentin Chmerkovskiy and Tony Dovolani from "Dancing with the Stars" fame. Henry's gorgeous and graceful ballet and contemporary mix solo to "Clarity", his memorable 80's inspired dance moves to "Apache" and his sexy salsa moves in "Sway" won him rave reviews in the all star production. The duality of masculinity and grace that Henry brings to each dance, along with his charisma and heart throb appeal, have many comparing Henry to the late great Patrick Swayze. Like his idol Swayze, Henry is looking forward to a continued successful career where he can apply his talents in dance, acting and singing to create timeless art and memorable stage, television and film productions.
