Est. 2006 · Hauppauge, New York
Our Story
Twenty years. One studio. Thousands of dancers who found their confidence here.
A Different Kind of Studio
Dance Xtreme New York was founded with a clear vision: to change the way a dance studio is viewed. From day one, the goal has been to create a family-friendly, nurturing environment that is inclusive of all learning styles and levels.
We believe every dancer deserves the opportunity to thrive — whether they're dancing for fun, training competitively, or pursuing dance at any level. With over 30 years of combined classroom experience across all ages and skill levels, our staff brings knowledge, passion, and professionalism to every single class.
Twenty years later, DXNY has grown into a 10,000 square foot studio — one of the largest dedicated dance spaces in Suffolk County. The space is bigger. The programs are broader. But the spirit that started it all never left.
As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we're not just proud of what we've built — we're proud of who we've helped build. Every dancer who found their confidence on our stage. Every shy kindergartner who walked out of class a little taller. Every family that became part of ours.
Celebrating 20 Years of Dance in Hauppauge
Two decades of classes, recitals, competitions, and communities built right here on Long Island. Thank you for being part of the story.
Meet the Founders
DXNY is family-owned and founder-led. The same two people who started this in a gym are still on the studio floor every week.
Michelle Carufe
Co-Owner · Instructor · Educator
Michelle brings an extensive and highly respected background in dance education and coaching. A lifelong member of the Commack community, she led the Commack Varsity Kickline team to four national championship titles and guided them to participate in the 80th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. She is also a former NDA (National Dance Alliance) instructor, having trained and mentored dancers across the country.
Michelle holds a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary and Special Education and a Master's Degree from Stony Brook University. That background shapes everything she does — she understands how children learn, grow, and thrive, and it shows in every interaction she has with dancers and their families.
She is CPR, First Aid, and AED certified, and a proud mother of three who has been part of the Commack community for over 40 years.
Mike Cardascia
Co-Owner · Choreographer · Creative Director
Mike is much more than a dance director and choreographer — he's a mentor with a 33-year legacy of inspiring the next generation of performers. His journey is one of resilience: after stepping away from dance for 15 years following bullying as a child, he returned with renewed purpose, training at Broadway Dance Center and Steps on Broadway in Manhattan under masters including Frank Hatchett and Joe Lanteri.
Nominated by the dance community as one of the Top 10 Dance Instructors in the United States in both 2022 and 2023, Mike holds over 24 choreography awards and brings 20+ years of judging experience to the studio. His students have gone on to compete nationally — including So You Think You Can Dance finalist Courtney Galiano.
But his mission goes beyond the stage. Whether a dancer becomes a professional performer or a healthcare provider, Mike's goal is the same: to send them into the world with confidence and character.
Beyond the Studio
20+ Dancers Placed on College Dance Teams
Through personalized coaching, private training, video submissions, application support, and one-on-one mentorship, Michelle and Mike have helped over 20 dancers earn spots on collegiate dance teams at prestigious universities.
Why Families Choose DXNY
Rooted in the Community
We've been serving Hauppauge, Smithtown, Commack, Nesconset, and surrounding Suffolk County communities for 20 years. We're not a franchise — we're your neighbors.
Every Age, Every Level
From our Mommy & Me classes for babies to competition teams and beyond — DXNY is built to grow with your dancer from their very first class.
Safe, Nurturing Environment
Every child deserves to feel seen and valued. Our instructors are chosen not just for their talent, but for their ability to connect with kids.
Real Results, Real Joy
Whether your goal is confidence, technique, or competition — we meet dancers where they are and help them get where they want to go.
Visit Our Hauppauge Dance Studio
Our 10,000 sq ft facility is located at 415 Oser Ave in Hauppauge — easy access from Smithtown, Commack, Nesconset, and all of central Suffolk County.
Studio Hours
- Mon–Thu: 3:30–9:30 PM
- Fri: 3:30–6:30 PM
- Sat: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
- Sun: Closed