Jessica Christian

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About Jessica

Jessica Neshay’ is a professional dancer, choreographer, and creative director from Nashville, TN. At the age of four, Jessica discovered her passion for dance. From dancing in church, training under Latoya Bennett-Brown, and leading The Ignite Dance Team, Formerly known as The 629 Dance Team of Belmont University where she served as Dance Captain and President for three years, she has taken that passion and turned it into not only a brand for herself, but a lifestyle.

Jessica was blessed to have her first professional dance gig at the age of ten where she performed at an album release party for country music singer, Garth Brooks. Since 2016, Jessica has worked alongside artists like Lizzo, Tasha Cobbs- Leonard , rapper Young Buck, Country singer Willie Jones, Leslie Jordan, LOCASH, Blanco Brown, Devon Gilfillian, Bailey Bryan, Shy Carter, Big & Rich, Raelynn etc. Along with making her name in the dance industry, in 2019, Jessica founded Chapters By Jessica Neshay’, a brand geared towards aiding all women and men, young or old, in finding and navigating the chapters of life through dance! Jessica Neshay has also built up a core audience by traveling state to state hosting various workshops and masterclasses under her brand, Chapters By Jessica Neshay.

Jessica Neshay’ attended Belmont University where she obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 2020, and then went on to pursue higher education from Trevecca Nazarene University where she obtain a Masters in Business Administration in 2024. She is now teaching and training weekly at Millennium Dance Complex Nashville as well as Roots Academy. Jessica is available for all gigs and travels domestically and internationally hosting workshops and teaching masterclasses, primarily hip-hop and heels performance and technique, while continuing to mold herself as a choreographer and dancer in the industry! Follow her on Instagram @JessicaNeshay_ and subscribe to her YouTube channel (Jessica Neshay’) to see more of her journey.

Jessica Neshay’ is a professional dancer, choreographer, and creative director from Nashville, TN.

Color: Blue
Salty Treat: Pretzels
Sweet Treat: Gummy Bears
Fast Food Restaurant: Cheesecake Factory
Sit Down Restaurant: Chick-fil-a
Coffee: Starbucks
Movie: Beyond the Lights
Place to Shop: Target
Scent: Vanilla
Clothing Brand: Nike
Animal: Puppies
Music Genre: RnB/Hip Hop
Travel Destination: LA/Chicago

Take a class with Jessica

class schedule

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 Steps: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to dance education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your technical skills and artistry, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the steps and choreography.

Our dance mentors are passionate about nurturing your movement abilities and your personal growth.

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

Learning choreography and refining your technique 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 dance and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through dance by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you nail that challenging turn sequence or master a complex combination, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a dance journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen style. 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 dance classes. It's about the profound impact our dance mentors have on your life.

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

In the heart of Music City's vibrant arts scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as professional dancers and educators. While their occasional commitments with dance companies or performance tours may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any class changes. In the rare event of an unmissable performance 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 dance program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. Our hours are Monday – Saturday from 12pm – 6pm.

SASKIA HARMON – Dance Director
JESSICA STILLMAN – Competition Manager
RILEY GOUDY – Competition Coordinator
MELISSA BULLINGTON – Preschool Manager
JEN BURNS – Dance Operations Manager
KATHLEEN MCPHERSON – Dance Operations Coordinator

SASKIA HARMON
Dance Director
JESSICA STILLMAN
Competition Manager
MELISSA BULLINGTON
Preschool Manager
JEN BURNS
Dance Operations Manager
KATHLEEN MCPHERSON
Dance Operations Coordinator