"Michael Susten is a choreographer who creates beautiful and original work" Debbie Allen

Michael is a graduate of the University of the Arts in Philadelphia with a BFA in Jazz Dance Performance and was honored with the Choreography Prize upon graduation. In 2006 Michael moved to Orlando, Florida to pursue a job offer at the Walt Disney World Resorts, where he went on to perform in “The Festival of the Lion King” and Magic Kingdom’s “Trolley” Show. He then became a seasonal employee and continued to perform over the next five years. He also had the opportunity to choreograph and perform for Disney’s ABC Thanksgiving Day Parade and work with American Idol finalists Diana Digarmo and Latoya Lundon.
While a sophomore in college, Michael created the Xhale Dance Company, a contemporary company based in the heart of Philadelphia. He produced and directed eleven shows while he was still a student. In addition to their seasonal productions, the company also performed in the Philadelphia Fringe Festival, The Koresh Artist Showcase and The Choreographer’s Canvas in NYC.

After graduation Michael continued producing his company, while teaching at studios in the Tri-State Area. In 2010 Michael was selected to showcase his work in the Dance Underneath the Stars Choreography Festival in Palm Springs, California. The Xhale Dance Company also had the opportunity to perform as a guest with Tracie Stanfield’s Synthesis Dance Project, before celebrating its 5th Anniversary concert at the Salvatore Capezio Theatre at Peridance in NYC.
Michael was honored to be a finalist in the International Choreography Competition at Jazz Dance World Congress. He was featured in Dance Teacher Magazine (November 2012 issue) and also won the video of the month.

Last March Michael had the debut of his new company Michael Susten & Company which was a two night sold out event held in NYC, which was followed by another sold out weekend in November.
In February Michael showcased his work in the Pushing Progress Showcase for the third time, alongside some of NYC's top choreographers.

Michael has been a dance educator for the past 14 years. He has had the privilege of teaching at dance studios around the country, Performing Arts High Schools and most recently was a guest at Point Park University. Michael has trained and mentored students who have performed on Broadway (Billy Elliot & Matilida) Vegas (Jubilee) Theme Parks (Disney Orlando & Tokyo) Major Dance Companies (Giordano Dance Company) and been accepted into the top dance colleges(Point Park, NYU, University of the Arts, Towson, Pace, Fordham, Marymount Manhattan, Walnut Hill).

Michael Susten can be found teaching Broadway Dance Center and Steps on broadway and The Joffrey Ballet in NYC, Millenium Dance Complex in Philly and is Currently on staff for numerous convention and competitions, traveling the country continuing to inspire a new generation of dancers.