About
Us
What Sets Us Apart
The Dance Collective (TDC) was established in 2025 and is located in Kendall Park, New Jersey. Owners Gianna and Marissa Rutigliano grew up competitive dancers, have been on many dance teams, and went to high school and college for dance! It has been a dream to provide professional education, creating a supportive environment for our students. Dance is an art in which we encourage one to express and explore their individuality. Our mission as sisters is to create an inclusive and vibrant community where dancers of all ages and skill levels can express themselves, connect with others, and cultivate their passion for dance. Through high-quality instruction, diverse classes, and inspirationalperformances, we aim to empower individuals to discoverthier unique voices, build confidence, and foster lifelong relationships. TOGETHER we celebrate the joy of dance and its ability to inspire, uplift, and unite us all.
Owner and instructor
Gianna Rutigliano
Gianna Rutigliano has been enthusiastically involved in the dance word for 20 years and counting. She has studied and taught ballet, contemporary, lyrical, jazz, pom, hip-hop, and more. Before high school she was committed to both pre professional teams for Rutgers and Soulmates dance teams. Gianna had attended FPAC where she was able to major dance in high school while taking academic classes, and having the opportunity to be on the dance and cheer team. Within 3 1/2 years Gianna received her B.A in dance from Georgian Court University. Gianna had the opportunity to present her award winning choreography at ACDA, a college dance festival. After graduating college Gianna joined two modern dance companies in NY at the "Cannonball Festival" and the "Fringe Arts Festival". Throughout Giannas dance journey she has danced besides many professional mentors/big audiences, has performed in a music video back in 2020, has been marked by numerous awards and recognitions. Currently Gianna judges for many big dance competitions. Above all, Gianna believes that dance is an art form and a sport that allows each participant to express their feelings, show ability, and connect with others and their audiences.
Meet Our Founders
Co- Owner and instructor
Marissa Rutigliano
Marissa Rutigliano has been dancing since she was 3. She has studied and danced multiple genres including; ballet, lyrical, jazz, pom, and more. Before high school she joined her sister on both preprofessional dance teams; Rutgers and Soulmates. Followng through with her love of dance Marissa attended Howell highschpp; for Fpac where it allows students to major in dance while taking academics. During high school she joined their dance team. Marissa knew she wanted to major in dance when going to college. She committed to Georgian Court University where she received her B.A in dance in just 3 and a half years! During her time in college she also had joined the university's dance team. Marissa also had the chance to perform on of the residencies at ACDA. After college Marissa became a full time dance teacher. Marissa believes in giving back the education she received to others to make them a better individual and dancer!