About I Love to (I.L.T.) Dance Studio

Owner | Director

Michelle Verissimo

Michelle Verissimo is the Founder and Artistic Director of I.L.T. Dance Studio. With over 25 years of experience, Michelle has dedicated her life to the art of dance and the growth of her students. Throughout her career, she has turned a lifelong passion for dance into a thriving and supportive community at I.L.T. Dance Studio.

Michelle trained with Marc Platt, a renowned ballet dancer, musical theater performer, and actor who was an original member of the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo and who also directed ballet productions at Radio City Music Hall. She also trained with dancer Jean Goodall, who appeared in the films Carousel, Guys and Dolls, and The Pajama Game. These formative experiences helped shape her strong technical foundation, artistic discipline, and performance-driven approach to teaching.

She is known for a teaching style that is both encouraging and technically grounded, blending authentic classical technique with expressive artistry. Having mentored hundreds of dancers, Michelle focuses on creating a high-caliber environment where experience-driven instruction meets a lifelong passion for the art.

At I.L.T. Dance Studio, her teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that dance should be joyful, accessible, and grounded in authentic technique. For Michelle, the greatest reward is seeing a student achieve their personal best, finding confidence on stage and strength through movement. From the first class to the final curtain call, she is committed to the long-term success of every student who walks through her doors.

Stephanie Espinosa

Dance Instructor / Choreographer

Stephanie Held has a true passion for teaching and because of that she started teaching her first class at the age of sixteen under the mentorship of Joffery Ballet Dancers. Obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree from the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale she has been submerging herself in her passion of teaching in the public, private, charter and after-school program settings for the past 20 years. Stephanie is always striving to hone her craft by working on side productions, choreographing and directing over 20 different children's theater productions, choreographing for various South Florida Competitive dance studios and performing and choreographing as a principal dancer for the Body and Soul Dance Company of South Florida. Many of her students have gone on to have successful careers in the entertainment field such as performing for Busch Gardens, Disney, Miami Dolphins, FSU Golden Girls, Broadway, in music videos and So You Think You Can Dance. Stephanie has always felt her calling is to spread artistry and self expression in students of all ages.

Teya Schlieffer

Dance Instructor / Choreographer

Teya is an accomplished dancer and choreographer with over two decades of experience in the industry. An original member of the I.L.T. Dance Studio dance team, she is expertly trained in ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, lyrical, and hip hop. A graduate of both the Cypress Lake High School Center for the Arts and the University of Central Florida, Teya has earned numerous accolades, including scholarships, top competitive placements, and "Best Dancer" honors.

Beyond her performance career, Teya is a dedicated educator and choreographer. Her award-winning choreography is recognized for its technical precision and creativity. She is committed to fostering a supportive environment at I.L.T., where she mentors the next generation of dancers to build confidence, strength, and sportsmanship.

Eliana Schleiffer

Dance Instructor / Choreographer

 Eliana has been a part of the I.L.T. Dance family since she was three years old. She grew up as a dedicated and passionate student through her love of dance. As an original member of the I.L.T. Dance team, she spent twelve years competing and performing, earning numerous top placements and scholarships. Eliana furthered her technical training at the Cypress Lake High School Center For The Arts and has both taken classes and performed at the University of South Florida. After years of volunteering and assisting, she officially launched her professional career as a teacher and choreographer. Her award-winning choreography and positive teaching style are fueled by her commitment to making every dancer feel confident and encouraged

Sara Ratcliff

Dance Instructor / Choreographer

Sara is a passionate and dedicated dance instructor with a strong foundation in both performance and education. She trained as a student at I.L.T. Dance Studio, where she was also a proud member of the I.L.T. Dance Team. During her time at I.L.T., Sara earned multiple awards for her performances, reflecting her commitment, artistry, and technical skill.

In addition to performing, Sara has gained valuable teaching experience as a class assistant at I.L.T. Dance Studio, working closely with instructors and students in a supportive learning environment. She currently serves as a preschool dance teacher, where she specializes in introducing young dancers to movement, rhythm, and a love for dance in a fun and nurturing way.

Sara is currently a student at Florida Gulf Coast University, where she continues to further her education while sharing her passion for dance with the next generation. Her enthusiasm, patience, and positive energy make her a wonderful role model for young dancers a truly valuable part of the I.L.T Dance Program.