Mile Square Theatre Celebrates 10 Years of Excellence with Dance Director Sarah Weber Gallo

As we step into the new season at Mile Square Theatre (MST), we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on our beloved Dance Director, Sarah Weber Gallo. This year marks a significant milestone for Sarah as she embarks on her 10th year leading MST Dance Academy, a journey defined by her unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where the arts thrive and students flourish.

Since founding the MST Dance Academy, Sarah has stayed true to the core mission of Mile Square Theatre: delivering high-quality arts education in a student-centered, inclusive setting. Her passion for nurturing each student’s unique talents is evident in the growth and success of her students, who continuously inspire her with their creativity and dedication. Sarah’s deep-rooted connections within the Hudson County Community enrich her work, making each interaction a meaningful part of the academy’s vibrant culture.

Beyond her pivotal role at MST, Sarah is also making waves as the Executive Director of Dance New Jersey. This statewide organization plays a crucial role in advocating for a diverse and equitable dance community across the state. Guided by values of connection, shared advocacy, and lifelong learning, Sarah dedicates herself to enhancing the role of dance in New Jersey’s artistic landscape, ensuring that dance continues to be a powerful force for connection and expression.

Sarah’s influence extends into academia as well, where she serves as a professor of ballet at Montclair State University and as a faculty member at the Joffrey School of Ballet. Her teaching philosophy reflects her commitment to mentorship and excellence in dance education, shaping the next generation of dancers with the same passion and dedication she brings to all her endeavors.

Her impressive professional performing career is a testament to her talent and dedication. Sarah recently retired from the Metropolitan Opera stage after a remarkable 25-year tenure, both at Lincoln Center and on international stages. Her extensive resume includes performing as a Radio City Rockette and with notable companies such as Donald Byrd/The Group and American Dance Machine for the 21st Century. Sarah’s choreographic work has been showcased nationally and internationally, including several productions with SWG/dancetheatre at Mile Square Theatre. Notably, she co-produced the inaugural Hoboken Dance Festival, a testament to her commitment to celebrating and advancing the art form in all its diversity.

Sarah’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has received several accolades, including the NY Indie Film Festival People’s Choice award for The Magic Hour, a New Jersey Theatre Alliance Award for Excellence in Arts Education, and a UWM New Works Award. Her academic background, with an M.F.A. in Dance from the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee and a B.A. in Psychology from Goucher College, complements her extensive practical experience.

A proud Hoboken parent and an active member of our community, Sarah balances her professional achievements with her personal life, including an endearing fondness for her lively dog.

As we celebrate Sarah’s 10th year at MST Dance Academy, we also celebrate her remarkable journey and unwavering dedication. Here’s to a decade of excellence and many more years of inspiring dance education and community engagement!

Congratulations, Sarah, and thank you for all that you do!