Stephanie Minnigan

From an early age, dance and the arts was Stephanie’s passion. She spent countless hours honing her craft at a studio where ballet and performance were the focus. Thriving on the excitement of performing for live audiences and expressing herself through movement, is where Stephanie’s dedication paid off.  She went on to compete in groups and solos, earning regional and national titles, championships and scholarships. The pinnacle of her dance career came when she was selected to represent the United States at the World Championship in the year 2000.  She was hired as a young teen to perform at openings and galas, supporting local charities, such as Carol Baldwin research, Hope House ministries and the highest peak, performing at Disney World.

Stephanie continued her education at Stony Brook University, where she discovered a love for costume design and sewing. Graduating magna cum laude with a BFA in theater, she was able to pursue her passions of dance and education, teaching classes while continuing her studies.

Stephanie is a passionate educator who continues to push the boundaries of her craft and challenge herself to stay timely. As a certified teacher with The American Ballet Theatre and a holder of the "Progressing Ballet Technique" certificate, she brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her students' growth.  She understands the heavy impact of being a positive role model, viewing it not merely as a job, but as a privilege, sharing the love for the arts.

Stephanie finds equal fulfillment in passing on her expertise, serving as a judge at both regional and national dance competitions. By providing feedback and insights to dancers across the country, she continues to advance her education and stay connected to others within the dance community.

Over the past two decades, Stephanie has trained young dancers who have gone on to appear in major regional tours and prestigious ballet companies, such as “Grease”, “Billy Elliott”,  Beauty & The Beast”, “Radio City Christmas Spectacular” and Miami City Ballet”.

Now, as the director of NSD, Stephanie is dedicated to providing quality dance education in a warm and structured environment, where her dancers can flourish performing.

Under Stephanie’s guidance, the North Shore dancers have had the opportunities of a lifetime, performing on some of the greatest stages of the world. From the grand spectacle of Disney World to the iconic stage of Radio City Music Hall and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, her dancers have captivated crowds and have made memories dancers dream of.