Ivan Koumaev
Experimental hip-hop-influenced movement rooted in hip-hop
- Pronouns
- He/Him
- Joined team
- 2019
- Birthplace
- Khabarovsk, Russia, Asia
Revive faculty since 2019
Ivan Koumaev biography
- Ivan Koumaev birthplace:
- Khabarovsk, Russia, Asia
- Pronouns:
- He/Him
- Joined team:
- 2019
- Dance training:
- Began dancing in Seattle at 13 before relocating to Los Angeles at 16.
Ivan Koumaev’s route into professional dance began after his family moved from Russia to Seattle in 1996. Music and movement became central interests in his early teens, and by 16 he had relocated to Los Angeles to pursue live art and production. A Nike industrial provided his first professional opportunity. His breakthrough followed on the second season of So You Think You Can Dance, where he finished in the top six and went on tour with the show.
What to wear to an Ivan Koumaev dance class
- Kneepads for added support during floorwork
- Loose, oversized clothing such as sweatpants, athletic pants, roomy T-shirts, or sweatshirts
- Comfortable athletic sneakers that allow you to move easily
Ivan Koumaev dance styles
- Primary dance styles:
- Experimental hip-hop-influenced movement rooted in hip-hop
Koumaev brings an athletic and exploratory quality to hip-hop, placing equal value on clean execution and the freedom to communicate through movement. His class material asks dancers to use strength and agility without losing the cultural grounding or personal intention behind the choreography. Because the movement can be physically demanding, athletic shoes, baggy or oversized clothing and kneepads are recommended.
Ivan Koumaev choreography and dance career highlights
- Choreography credits:
- Justin Timberlake, Khalid and Big Time Rush
- Performance credits:
- Two world tours with Justin Timberlake; work with Chris Brown, Usher, Justin Bieber and Ne-Yo; Footloose, Rock of Ages, Step Up 3-D and the first three Trolls films; commercials for Pepsi, Nike and Rémy Martin
- Teaching and convention experience:
- Revive and Adrenaline faculty since 2019; workshops, conventions and events around the world
- Awards and career achievements:
- Top-six finalist and touring cast member on Season 2 of So You Think You Can Dance; Super Bowl halftime show performer; appearances at the Oscars, Grammys, VMAs, BET Awards, BRIT Awards and Emmys
Our Ivan Koumaev choreographer profile reflects his transition from commercial performer to choreographer and director while continuing to work as a dancer. His projects include Justin Timberlake, Khalid and Big Time Rush, supported by experience across touring, film, television, music videos, advertising and major awards shows. At Revive, he brings that professional perspective into the classroom and encourages dancers to develop clarity, confidence and an individual connection to the movement.
You can also find Ivan Koumaev on Adrenaline Dance.
In the studio
Ivan Koumaev latest news and updates
Ivan shares recent movement, rehearsal and project updates through his official Instagram account.