Annabelle Fox

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about Annabelle

Annabelle Fox is a professional actress, singer and dancer originally from Wilton, CT. She discovered her love for performing at the young age of 11. She went on to pursue performance through high school and received her BFA in Musical Theatre from Belmont University, where she also fell in love with Nashville.

Select performance credits include OFF BROADWAY: Jeanette, No Strings, (Theatre Row). Select: Savannah, Disney’s Freaky Friday, (North Shore Music Theatre);Kathy Selden, Singin’ in the Rain, (Summer Theatre of New Canaan: CT Critics Circle Nom.);and Wendla, Spring Awakening, (The Secret Theatre). She recently originated the role of Abigail King in the sold out regional premiere run of Johnny & The Devil’s Box at the Cumberland County Playhouse alongside her husband Douglas, for which it received Nashville First Night Honor’s “Best Original New Work” award. Her mission in life is to bring joy to people through performance. She is specifically drawn to material that elevates the human mind and radiates justice, all the while sprinkling in her creative spark and boldness into each character.

In August 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, Annabelle and her husband moved back to Tennessee after performing in and out of New York City for 5 years. They currently live in Franklin, TN with their 19 month old son, Oliver, and golden doodle, Dandy. Annabelle could not be happier to be a part of the Roots mentor team as they help to raise up the next generation of performers!

Teaching Philosophy

“I aim to lead with empathy and encourage and empower young people through their voice. I hope to create a safe, comfortable space to help them explore their unique instrument!”

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“One of the highlights of my career was getting to originate the role of Abigail King in the musical JOHNNY & the DEVIL’S BOX at the Cumberland County Playhouse. After nearly a decade of development it was a dream come true to get to finally perform the role for an audience!”

What type of student will excel best with you as his/her mentor?
“The type of student that will excel with me is someone who is willing to be open, try their best, and bring positivity to the room!”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?
“Being a mentor is much more than just being a teacher. It’s being a friend, a listening ear, and a cheerleader. I was fortunate enough to have wonderful teachers and mentors and it is one of my greatest joys to get to give back to the next generation of singers with the insight and wisdom I have accrued over the years and the same love and support I received as a young, aspiring performer!”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“I grew up on Broadway cast albums, Christian music, and Celine Dion greatest hits! As a young child I listened to Broadway Kids on repeat. I was so inspired by these young kids my age performing on Broadway. To this day my favorite way to spend roadtrips is singing through the cast albums of WICKED, LEGALLY BLONDE, and THE SECRET GARDEN.”

Where is your favorite local spot? 
“My current favorite local coffee spot is forever and always Frothy Monkey, favorite restaurant is Culaccino, and favorite park is Pinkerton! But let’s be honest… every place and every THING is so cute in Franklin it’s hard to choose!”

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
“From a very early age I knew I wanted to be an actress. I started ballet when I was three, performed in a few little shows through my mom’s french school and french camp, and then when I was eleven I played the lead role in the musical ANNIE and it changed my life. I was devastated when the show ended and my parents knew I was officially bitten by the theatre bug and quickly sought out more performance opportunities for me. I performed leads in all the musicals through high school and decided to go to college for Musical Theatre which cemented my love of performance even more while nurturing me to be the top of my field. I’m so glad I never gave up on those dreams that started so early on…. I know little me would be proud of what I’ve accomplished and learned.”

If you could meet one author/performer/creator who would it be and what wold you ask them?
“I would love to meet Kristin Chenoweth. Not only did she shape Musical Theatre history in originating the iconic role of Glinda in WICKED, but she paved the way for short, strong leading ladies. She has remained completely and unapologetically herself throughout her career which is so inspiring.”

Salty Treat: salt & vinegar chips
Sweet Treat: oreos
Fast Food Restaurant: chick-fil-a
Sit Down Restaurant: culaccino and pucketts
Coffee Drink: skinny vanilla latte with oat milk and a splash of cinnamon
Movie/Show: Selling Sunset
Place to Shop: Anthropologie and Target
Candle: Volcano or anything frasier fir
Musician/Band: TAYLOR SWIFT, Needtobreathe, Lake Street Dive
Travel Destination: France
Gift cards I love to receive: Target, Starbucks, Mani/Pedi

meet our
other music mentors
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Teaching isn't just about learning techniques. Our students are led by passionate and well-trained professionals who recognize their greater role in students' lives. To refine your search for a music mentor, select your desired instrument from the options below. 

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

EMILY LINDSEY – Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY – Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD – Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF – Schedule & Billing Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator