What'd They Say | Dance With Me Dance

Julian Thorn, Showstopper, America's #1 Dance Competition Host for 27 years

"I am so happy to say that it has been years knowing a true professional like Diana and if anyone has the opportunity to work with her, it is a pure pleasure!"

Kelly Marie Gordon, Director at StarPower National Talent Competition

"Diana is a respected member of the dance community that I have known forever and someone I consider a friend. I recommend her to anyone who is looking for an awesome way to level up."

Pete Amadeo, Supervisor of Recreation for the City of Bayonne

“Diana and her staff at Dance With Me are an absolute gem of Bayonne! They truly care and love the interaction with children. Their professionalism is incredible and is an absolute pleasure to work with!"

Teresa Fellion, Founder and Artistic Director of BodyStories: Teresa Fellion Dance, Choreographer, Dance Educator, Dancer

“I have worked with Diana Castore in different capacities since 2007, and witnessed her excel over the past ten years. I have taught and choreographed ballet for Dance With Me Dance Studio, MC’d their recital, and led workshops and performances with my company, BodyStories: Teresa Fellion Dance, and DWM students. Through these experiences, I have had the chance to see Diana work successfully as a dance educator, choreographer, and studio owner. She has trained many students to advance to their full potential in performances and competitions, and choreographed countless student pieces in the process. Diana is a smart business owner who runs Dance With Me Dance Studio as a welcoming family studio with a positive attitude that motivates students, as well as an efficient and innovative business model fueled with a passion for the arts.”

Carol Brienza, Professional Dance Educator and Choreographer

"I have known Diana for over 20 years. It has been my privilege and honor to work alongside her as a dance educator. Diana has a vast array of knowledge and expertise in various aspects of the performing arts, entertainment, education, and business. Her experience as a performer, choreographer, educator, and business owner is a unique and valuable tool which allows her to advise and guide others who are seeking insight to the world of dance and all it has to offer. Diana is one of the most generous, thoughtful and sincere humans I have ever had the pleasure of calling a colleague and friend."

Ashani Mfuko, Professional Dancer, Media Strategist

"Diana is a class act! She has excelled in every aspect of the dance biz, and has decades of experience as a Professional Dancer, Choreographer, Director, and Studio Owner. She really knows her stuff! Diana is extremely professional, and has a wealth of knowledge to share that will help you experience the level of success that you desire. I would highly recommend Diana to anyone and everyone in the dance industry. Her warm and bubbly personality will make you feel comfortable, and she is an absolute joy to work with!"

Gina Castore, President Dance With Me Dance Studio

One person in particular comes to mind when I think of hard work and talent and the magic it makes when they come together and make an extraordinary outcome......................................D I A N A C A S T O R E !Sister by default, best friend, business partner and confidant by choice!! I’d choose you one million times over. Your perseverance and work ethic is remarkable. Your teaching methods and connection with students are admirable. Your kind heart and young soul leaves footprints on the lives you touch whether it be your peers or students. You leave a little bit of pixie dust on each persons heart making them feel special in their own way

Guinevere DiPiazza , Aerialist, Dancer, Choreographer, Circus Coach

" Diana, owner of Dance With Me in Bayonne, NJ, puts her heart and soul into every detail of her school. I've worked with Diana to provide workshops for her students and entertainment at her recitals. I always have a blast when I work with her school. Diana's vast knowledge of the industry, professionalism and positive attitude is so refreshing, she's an absolute joy to work with. Her passion for dance is obvious as it shines through her staff and students. You can tell it's more than just teaching children how to dance, it’s also about learning life skills, building confidence and empowering her students with the know-how to make it in showbiz today. When it comes to dance, you want to dance with her, the one and only, Diana!"

Will Tomaskovic, Professional Dancer, Dance Educator

"I have been involved on faculty at Dance With Me Dance Studio with Diana for the past 5 years, and am always impressed by the professionalism and drive she instills in her students and fellow instructors. She has always curated a strong grouping of inspirational leaders for her younger students to gain knowledge from, as well as to demonstrate the professionalism required not only in the studio world, but to succeed in the professionalism world as well. As a working artist, I am thankful for the creative community Diana promotes and am always excited for the opportunities she is able to elicit for those she surrounds herself with."

Heather Smith, Pro Dancer, Choreographer, Dance Educator

"Within moments of meeting Diana, you are immediately whisked away into a world of positivity and possibility. She is knowledgable and professional while maintaining compassion and passion. With over 20 years of industry experience, she is a current, connected and an incredible resource. She is a wonderful educator who will not only teach you, but will care about you: not just your career, YOU. As a colleague and friend, I can say with absolute certainty that Diana Castore is the best in the business."

“I've had the pleasure of working with Diana & her team for well over 10 years. My line of work puts me in direct contact with many business owners and especially choreographers that own their own studios. It takes hard work & dedication to own a business today, especially when it comes to working with children. Diana & her team truly go above and beyond the call of dance instructors. I've personally seen them always put the children first no matter what the situation. In today's world that is a very hard task to achieve, and I must say Dance With Me always does. They are an amazing group of people and a true asset to their community.”

Tess Liantonio, Professional Dancer

"Diana has an infectious energy. Her passion and love of the dance industry exudes in everything she does. As a guest teacher at her studio, I saw firsthand how exceptional she was not only as a professional but as an artist, woman, and teacher. Time and distance has not gotten in the way of Diana managing to cheer me on in my own career. Diana Castore is someone you want in your corner as you take on this incredible industry!"

Massimo Di Donna, Partners in Sound Entertainment Group, C.E.O. * President & Chairman - Carl V. Bini Memorial Fund, Honorary Member - N.Y.P.D. Honor Legion, Advisory Board Member - Michael's Cause, Executive Club Of Staten Island Gold Star Member, Business Council Member - S.I.E.D.C., 2015 Top 31 Future People Of Influence, 2014 Young Professional Of The Year, 2013 Boy Scouts Of America SI Luncheon Honoree

Tricia Tyndorf

“When I walked into Dance With Me Studio to sign up my daughter for her first ballet class 8 1/2 years ago I had no idea I was going to walk out with a friend. Diana’s high energy, passion for the art of dance and consistent positive outlook makes her someone you want to be around and more importantly have your dancer around. Her love for life is contagious and shows in the way she treats others. She is a professional at all levels. And does not stop at trying to better herself and those around her. Diana is a women who empowers others.”

Peg Moore Maioriello, Professional Dance Artist and Choreographer from New York, NY celebrating 40 years of excellence in teaching

“Diana Castore is a distinguished Professional Dance Educator, Artist, and outstanding Business Owner. Her commitment to excellence in everything she does is noteworthy. She is continually growing and learning to ensure an interaction with her is exceptional. Diana has mastered business as well as Social Media with extraordinary skill. Her broad knowledge of every aspect of Professional Dance, as well as her distinguished career, makes her an excellent Consultant in every area of Dance, Art, and Studio Life. Her studio, Dance With Me, is a safe, fun and unique place to learn. Diana Castore will charm you with her luminous personality and dazzle you with her savvy skills”

Chris Cocchi, Entrepreneur

"When I hear the word dance once name comes to mind, Diana Castore. She lives and breathes dance day in and day out. Her training methods teach students life lessons to become great dancers and better people. I have personally watched her students grow from shy children to confident adults. Her love for the art is shown throughout the years of tireless commitment. She has taught me so many valuable lessons."

Caryn LaGreca, Professional Photographer

"I am a professional photographer and have worked with Diana many times. We always have a blast. She is very talented and unique. She has come up with many creative ideas that we have brought to life. Diana is extremely business oriented and passionate about her clients."

Erica Turcotte, Operations Manager & Former Pre-Pro Company Dancer at DWM

“Dance With Me is more than just a dance school, it is truly a family! I have been dancing at Dance With Me since I was 8 years old and I have loved every minute of it. Diana, Gina, and the whole staff at DWM are wonderful at what they do, and help each and every dancer reach their fullest potential. I can honestly say that I would not be who I am today without them. It has been such a rewarding experience to be a part of DWM and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to learn dance in a fun and nurturing environment.

Elom Bowman, Artist, Ecentrik Artistry

“I have known Diana for a few years now and had the opportunity to work with her with various projects. Some of the things that stuck out to me about her is her passion for her craft, her creativity, her positive energy, and her desire to bring out the best in those she works with. She is an amazingly talented person and although she takes her business and craft very seriously, she also keeps it fun. She's an absolute blast to work with and I look forward to collaborating with her again in the near future.”

Ravi Idupuganti, Stat 10 Productions, Owner, DJ, MC, Entertainer

“As I sit down to write this testimonial about Diana Castore and Dance With Me Bayonne Dance Studio, I wonder how to begin.

It's easy for anyone to just write a testimonial for the sake of doing it, however, I am writing this as a business owner and a friend of Diana's.

Diana and the entire staff at Dance With Me Bayonne are phenomenal. They have a great attitude and care about the kids like they are their own.

I am working with Diana for 3 years now, doing her Awards Dinner every year and you can see the love her kids give her and her staff.

Nothing beats that, and it makes people, looking from the outside, feel like they are missing something because of the love that is shown.

Diana and the staff have great hearts and all I can say is if you are considering bringing them to any dance studio, I would highly recommend going to DANCE WITH ME BAYONNE!!!” @djindianfury

Jacqueline Agrusa, Professional Dancer, Dance Educator

"From the moment I met Diana, I knew she was a great person. She is not only an amazing professional choreographer and teacher, but a beautiful person inside and out. I am on the staff at Dance With Me, and have absolutely loved working here this season. Diana provides a positive, fun, and educational environment where students not only learn to dance but learn the life lessons they will be able to take with them, no matter what they go on to pursue. Diana inspires all those around her and I feel so lucky to teach alongside one of the best."

Stacy Dittrich, Parent of Former DWM Students

"Since the age of 6, DWM has been my oldest daughters second home. She has made many friends at the studio and learned a lot through the years. Watching her and all the dancers over the years have been amazing. You can see the progression in their ability and it truly is wonderful to watch them all perform, not just my own girls. The teachers are all currently involved in the industry and are extremely knowledgable in their craft. We can't say enough about Miss Diana, Miss Gina, Miss Michelle, and all the staff. I look forward to many more memories with our DWM Family."

Amanda and Ayra Castro

“We have had the pleasure of dancing at Dance With Me Dance Studio since it opened in 2004. Being a part of Dance With Me for so many years has taught us both confidence, the power of team work, and the ability to work outside of our comfort zone. Miss Diana has grown to be not only our dance teacher but also a mentor, and friend. She has made Dance With Me a second home for us and the dance environment so welcoming and loving. We have been able to take her teachings and lessons way beyond the dance room and incorporate them in our everyday lives and careers. She is truly inspiring and it has been an honor to be a part of the Dance With Me family for so many years".

Scott Wordsman, Professor of English, LIM College

" I interviewed Diana for an assignment for a local paper, and, despite not knowing much about her work from the start, I came out of our interview with not only a ton of information to write about, but also a feeling of good will and high energy. It became clear to me through our discussion that Diana was not only passionate about her own work, but even more so in the way that her work inspires others. These qualities exemplify everything a dancer could want in an instructor: someone passionate, dedicated, and ultimately, very warm."

Michelle Duvall, Creator of Barre Variations, Dance Educator, Pilates Method Alliance -CPT

“Diana is an experienced professional who has dedicated her life to her passion for dance, choreography, and educating the future of the industry. She is a skilled choreographer who has worked with the top names in the business, and makes you feel as if you’re one of them. Her humble and relatable approach to her craft brings the best out of her students and colleagues. Working under Diana has given me the opportunity to learn from the dance industry’s best, and absorb the knowledge she brings to the table. Her dedication is tireless, and I have an enormous amount of respect for her ability to constantly show up for whatever project is set in front of her. If you want to up level our training, teaching, or even business this is the woman to go to in order to make it happen!” “Diana is an experienced professional who has dedicated her life to her passion for dance, choreography, and educating the future of the industry. She is a skilled choreographer who has worked with the top names in the business, and makes you feel as if you’re one of them. Her humble and relatable approach to her craft brings the best out of her students and colleagues. Working under Diana has given me the opportunity to learn from the dance industry’s best, and absorb the knowledge she brings to the table. Her dedication is tireless, and I have an enormous amount of respect for her ability to constantly show up for whatever project is set in front of her. If you want to up level our training, teaching, or even business this is the woman to go to in order to make it happen!”

Rich Casella, The Guitar Den, Bayonne, NJ

"My name is Rich Casella from the Guitar Den. I have had the pleasure of exhibiting at several events with Dance With Me and I have seen a level of affection and love between the staff and young dancers that is an absolute delight to witness. Dance With Me is an unequivocal pioneer in the burgeoning business community in Bayonne and the courage to grow with Bayonne clea4rly finds its way into the approach taken to teaching young people to dance. Another very impressive quality Dance With Me has is the continuous presence at community events that further strengthens the confidence of the clientele. This can only come from an organization that cares deeply about its dancers."

Judith Cardona-Frank, MaryMount Manhattan College, Assistant to VP & Dean/Coordinator

"It feels like it was just yesterday that we spotted a hot pink flyer at the Blockbuster Video Store advertising Dance classes at the Dance With Me Dance Studio back in 2004. My daughter Jasmine joined the studio when she was 7 years old and was a company dancer until she was 16. She is now 21. Looking back, those were the best years of our lives and we owe that to Ms. Diana and the Dance With Me Dance Studio family. We are so thankful for Ms. Diana's guidance throughout all of these years. My daughter always says, "Ms. Diana is such a good role model! She is a very creative, dedicated, talented professional, and an inspiration to her students, their families, and the community". Ms. Diana, Ms. Gina, and Dance With Me will always hold a special place in our hearts. We love you Ms. Diana! P.S. My daughter loves Dance With Me so much she returned this year, 2018, for a last hurrah!"

The One and Only Captain Bayonne, Superhero for Fitness, Defender of Righteousness/Justice and Proud Resident of Bayonne, NJ

"Firstly, I wish to express how honored I am to be able to write a testimonial on behalf of my friend, creative visionary, and extraordinaire Diana Castore! I am not just a testifier but a client... having been taught by Diana to help improve my own footwork. Diana is not just a teacher at Dance With Me in Bayonne, Diana is an extra parent guiding you along the right path. Self development is what we all owe to ourselves. Diana s providing all of her students with the mental and physical skills needed to navigate our world. These skills carry forward and will help each student positively figure out the complexities and issues of life with ease while welcoming those challenges. It is an amazing thing to see all of the endless hours spent learning the perfect choreographed costumed dance routine, to finally be able to present to her students proud family and friends in a Broadway style grand celebration. It is a great sensed of accomplishment and rightfully so! Kids do not lie and smiles are their truth. I placed Diana in the category of people in Bayonne who I often say to myself, "I wish we had more people like her helping to develop young people to reach their ultimate and limitless potential in out special city". And then I always immediately answer myself, " Diana is already creating more people like her and thank goodness for that!".

John Henry Soto, Artist

"Diana Castore is not just an incredibly talented dancer-choreographer and teacher but she is also an extremely caring person and makes you feel like you can accomplish anything. I'm sure it's this quality that has made her school and her environment so successful. I enjoy being in that environment and working with people of her caliber. It is a true honor for me and one that I do not take for granted".

Nel Mickiewicz, Former DWM Company Dancer

"I have known Mrs. Diana and Mrs. Gina since I was 2 years old. They have been teaching me for 8 years now. They teach boys and girls on being better dancers. Mrs. Diana and Mrs. Gina are my inspiration. They give me confidence. Mrs. Diana has told me many stories of how her being a professional dancer created her career. The girls at the studio are very nice and sweet. Dancing always inspires me to do more, especially with my friends. Dance With Me is like a second home to me. I have made memories that will be with me all my life."

Frank Maglio, Pro Filmmaker, Realtor

"My Name is Frank Maglio, I am a local Bayonne Realtor. I met Diana almost 2 years ago through a mutual friend. From the moment I met Diana, we became great friends, you know when you just hit it off with someone. Because of our mutual love for art, a group of us were trying to start an art circle with local Bayonne artist of all kinds. Diana opened her studio for us to meet on several occasions. It was amazing to get together with other artists and just sit around on the studio floor and shoot ideas back and forth with each other. It was not long after when my business partner, John Soto and I decided we wanted to do a video with Diana about her and Dance with me. Yes, I am also a photographer and short filmmaker. Well, we got to meet and work with many of Diana ’s students from 4 to about 18 years old I believe. This is when I truly realized who Diana Castore really was. When she was with her students her love for them was overwhelmingly visible, her desire for them to be the best they could be. It was evident and I could tell that the kids just love her. She was like mother goose in her element. It was amazing to watch these little dancers perform and follow Diana’s direction to the beat. In one word Professional. I even took a quick dance break with Diana, John, and crew lol. That was fun. You can see us in the video. I will post it in a link below. I just wanted to say a few words about Diana because she is a great person with a real passion for art, her family and friends, and has a real vision for her young students. Bayonne would not be the same without her or Dance With Me Dance Studio. Link to the video Shot by John, myself and Lisa Zalenski with Diana. Diana did expose a bit of her heart so be sure to check it out. https://youtu.be/NLjHehzwUKg".

Irene Post, Advertising and Marketing Specialist

“One of the highlights of my work as an Advertising and Marketing Specialist is meeting a variety of business owners. Over the years I’ve developed close relationships with many of my clients but one that will always stand out is Diana Castore of Dance With Me, Dance Studio. We hit it off right from the start! She’s a consummate professional, hysterically funny and so easy to talk to that it feels like I’ve known her forever. From a business perspective, Diana knows exactly what she wants and makes my job so much easier, she’s a delight to work with. She’s loved by all of “her kids” and anyone in Bayonne that’s been fortunate enough to meet and get to know her. She’s accomplished so much and I’m sure the best is yet to come. Cheers My Girl!”

Mia Crimaldi, National Securities Major at New Jersey City University

"Working at Dance With Me this last year has been absolutely amazing. I could not have asked for a better environment to be in. Diana, Gina, and the rest of the Dance With Me Crew are incredible people with unique personalities, that go above and Bayonne to make the learning environment fun while being professional. I have learned so many skills from everyone that I will carry with me throughout life and my future jobs and career. It is amazing to think that this studio i once danced at, has now a deeper connection to me than I have ever imagined. Being a part of Dance With Me is like being a part of another family... the studio, like too many others, is truly a second home."

Ileana Kovacs, DWM Company Alumni

"Dance With Me Dance Studio is so much more than just a dance studio. It became a home, an escape, somewhere we can all express our feelings as we grew through our lives, together."

Judith Cardona, Parent of a Former Company Dancer

"My daughter, Jasmine, joined the studio when she was 7 years old and was a company dancer until she was 16. Looking back, those were the best years of our lives and we owe that to Ms. Diana and the Dance With Me Dance Studio Family."