Meet the Team

You’re in Great Hands

DeShon Rollins

Modern & Jazz Instructor

DeShon Niajhi Rollins is from Southampton County Virginia and is an alumnus of The Virginia State University. He decided very early that he wanted to be a star . He started dancing, twirling baton, playing trumpet, and singing all at a very young age. DeShon Rollins has made a big impact in multiple cities up and down the east coast . While attending Virginia State University, DeShon joined various performance organizations such as Sankofa Dance Theater where he earned the position as principle dancer . He is also a member of VSU premier Hiphop dance organization AbstraKt Entertainment .DeShon was featured in the Washington Post as well as Vh1's Pass the Baton challenge . Soon after graduation, DeShon continued his professional studies at The Joffrey Ballet School located in the New York City ! Where he trained intensively under some of the top artist/instructors in the industry. DeShon is currently now a professional dancer with The Latin Ballet Of Virginia, where he tours domestically and internationally spreading his love for dance . DeShon promotes dance in all formalities along with encouraging his fellow colleagues and students each day!

Photography by : Gianna Grace Photography
In dance, you’re always growing and always learning … living in a realm of constant evolution. ”
— ~DeShon

Jasmine Mackenzie

Hip-Hop Instructor

Jasmine Mckenzie was dancing before she could walk! Jasmine graduated from undergrad at Old Dominion University and continued studying for her masters at Liberty University. She is the Quality Assurance Manager for Virginia Home for Boys and Girls by day and Assistant Director of Richmond Urban Dance by night. She also teaches for West End Assembly of God’s Arts Academy: Encor, and fills in at West End Dance Academy when needed! Jasmine started teaching dance in 2018 and has recently choreographed for a shoe commercial, a flash mob proposal, as well as choreographed a musical (13: The Musical), show choir, music videos and much more. Dance has opened more doors than she could imagine and she now knows that dance is truly a gift from God and a part of her purpose; she plans to walk, well dance, into her purpose unapologetically.

Kiara Lofton

Acrobatics & Tap Instructor

Kiara was born in Atlanta, Georgia, but was raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Kiara started her dance journey at only 3 years old at The Philadelphia School of Dance Arts. Her dance influence came from her mother who also danced at The Philadelphia School of Dance Arts and has currently been teaching classes there. Following her mother’s footsteps, in 2014 Kiara became a teaching assistant for Ballet and Jazz. In 2017 she attended The Illustrious Virginia State University graduating with a Bachelor’s in Hospitality Management. During her time in school she met Deshon and was given an opportunity to dance with Sankofa Dance Theatre. Kiara’s favorite style is Tap as she loves the different sounds and beats you can make with your feet. She also teaches Acrobatics helping the children learn new tricks and flips. Her goal is to continue the line of dance, spread knowledge & help all the children grow into better people and most importantly, better dancers!

Jessica Speakes

Primary Dance Instructor

Jessica Speakes began dance at the Philadelphia School of Dance Arts the mother organization of the Philadelphia Dance Company (Philadanco) under the direction of Dr. Joan Myers Brown. As in instructor, Ms. Speakes served five years as a teaching apprentice for Ballet, Jazz, and Tap at the Philadelphia School of Dance Arts where she later became an instructor. In 2010, Jessica joined the Canaan Conservatory for Arts and Music staff under the direction of Ms. Bonnie Bing. She is a graduate of Temple University where she studied Early Childhood & Elementary Education. Jessica’s deep seeded passion for dance and education has made her committed to the holistic development of young children’s self-expression, creativity, and appreciation for the performing arts.

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