Sam Atkinson

About

Sam Atkinson

Dance Mentor

About

Samantha Atkinson is a recent graduate from the University of Alabama, where she received a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Dance. She has trained since she was 3 years old, and has been able to focus primarily on the styles of ballet, contemporary, jazz, and modern. Her training as a dance major in college allowed her to gain a more well-rounded education in many styles of dance.

At UA, she had the opportunity to perform in works by Qianping Guo, Rita Snyder, Jamorris Rivers, and various student-choreographed works. She was able to perform Aurora’s Act III Wedding Variation from Sleeping Beauty, staged by Rita Snyder. Additionally, she got to perform as a demo-soloist in the ballet “Inspiration,” choreographed and staged by Eldar Aliev, the artistic director of the Mariinsky Ballet Theatre.

Samantha also got to explore creation and choreography through her time at Alabama, and was able to choreograph several pieces in various styles including ballet, contemporary, and jazz, for performances at the University of Alabama. One of her pieces, titled “Gestalt,” was adjudicated and selected to be performed in the New Works Concert at the Alabama Dance Theatre. Samantha is grateful for the experiences she has gained so far, and she is so excited to share the love of dance with young dancers!

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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