A new rhythm is moving through Main Street in Center Moriches with the opening of Fearless Dance Company, a fresh and dynamic dance studio led by seasoned instructor and Long Island native Cassandra Scala.
A familiar face in the Center Moriches dance community, Scala was asked by the former owners of the space to take over the studio—a gesture that speaks volumes about the trust and admiration she’s earned over the years. “They told me, ‘You’re the one to carry this forward,’ and I was honored,” said Scala, who brings over two decades of dance experience and 12 years of teaching expertise to the new venture.
Cassandra’s dance journey began at the age of 7. She was a competitive dancer trained in all styles through her teens, earning numerous titles and awards through standout solo and group performances. She served as captain of her high school dance team and was a founding member and soloist of the Arrhythmia Dance Company, one of Long Island’s first pre-professional dance programs. As Dance Captain with Arrhythmia, she performed at prestigious venues including the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater and the A.C.E. Awards, while also participating in charitable performances that supported causes like Toys for Tots.
“I’ve always seen dance as more than just movement,” Cassandra said. “It’s about expressing yourself, building confidence, and creating a space where kids can grow on and off the stage.”
Fearless Dance Company offers jazz, lyrical, choreography, and dance technique classes for all ages and levels. Scala has experience directing competitive and recreational programs, and her choreography is recognized at the regional and national levels. Her goal is to cultivate an atmosphere where dancers feel supported and free to push their limits. “To dance and to live fearlessly—that’s the heart of what I want to teach,” she said.
Among the first students to register was 7-year-old Regan Frame of Center Moriches, who has studied with Cassandra for four years. “Miss Cassandra makes me feel like I can do anything,” Regan said proudly. “She helps me sparkle on stage!” Regan also performed her first solo under Scala’s guidance. “She’s a little nugget,” Cassandra said with a laugh. “Watching her grow has been such a joy.”
Longtime student and competitive dancer Tatyana Thawe of Shirley echoed the praise. “She is amazing; very kind, fun, generous, and loving,” Thawe said. “She always encourages us and makes us believe we can be our best. She’s not just a teacher, she’s a mentor.”
Cassandra credits her success to her experience, passion, and her tight-knit family, especially her mother, Louise. “My mom has been there since day one,” she said. “From late-night costume prep to helping me get the studio ready, she’s my biggest supporter.” Her entire family, her dad Matthew and brother Matt, have played a part, assisting with renovations, registrations, and recital planning, making Fearless a true family-powered project.
With deep community ties, a championship level background, and a bold new vision, Fearless Dance Company is set to become a vibrant part of Center Moriches. For Cassandra Scala, it’s more than just a business—it’s the next step in a lifelong dance that started at age seven and shows no sign of slowing down.
“We move to inspire,” Cassandra says on her website at fearless-dance-company.com. “Our mission is to empower young minds to chase their dreams by embracing their most authentic selves. We believe in living boldly with no fear and no apologies. Through powerful movement, fearless expression, and a supportive community, we ignite passion, build confidence, and create dancers who lead with heart and hustle. Come as you are, and leave as something greater. Come be FEARLESS.”
Fearless Dance is now enrolling for summer and fall sessions, with classes for beginners through advanced dancers. “We’re building something beautiful here,” said Scala. “Fearless is about more than movement. It’s about facing challenges head-on, together.”