| .....it begins with a single step |
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| TUITION tap here |
| Meet Our Teachers |
Samara Michelle
Artistic Director
Samara Michelle founded Journey Performing Arts Center in 2004 and incorporated
Journey in January 2005 to provide quality dance instruction in the heart of Atlanta.
A native of Detroit, she studied dance from a young age at the Detroit-Windsor
Dance Academy. She excelled in varied dance forms such as ballet, jazz, modern
and hip-hop and was selected to become a performing member of the
Detroit-Windsor Second Dance Company as well as the Cass Tech Dance
Workshop.
Dance has taken Samara Michelle across the country, where she has toured and
performed in a number of venues. She has been honored at the Michigan Youth
Arts Festival for her choreography, performed in the acclaimed All City Dance
concerts across Michigan, appeared at Detroit's premier Music Hall, and been
featured at Detroit's Cobo Hall annual Toys for Tots program.
In January 2007, Michelle founded the Journey Dance Company. This ensemble of
professionally trained dancers fuses classical ballet technique with modern, jazz, and
nuances of street hip-hop. The JDC has performed throughout the metro Atlanta
community including The Sweet Auburn Festival, the Independent Black Film
Festival, Oglethorpe University, Morris Brown College and Georgia State University.
Michelle received her Bachelor's degree in Health and Physical Education from Clark
Atlanta University and her Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Georgia
State University. Her passions for youth and dance are at the heart of Journey
Performing Arts Center. As one of the few nonprofit children's dance studios in
Atlanta, Journey not only seeks to promote children's exposure to the arts, but to
boost their self-esteem and well-being. Michelle insures that the dance training
children receive at Journey is technically proficient and provided in an environment
that celebrates children's diversity and individualism. As a passionate advocate of
the arts in Atlanta, she works tirelessly to position Journey as a premiere resource
for Atlanta's artistic youth.
Artistic Director
Samara Michelle founded Journey Performing Arts Center in 2004 and incorporated
Journey in January 2005 to provide quality dance instruction in the heart of Atlanta.
A native of Detroit, she studied dance from a young age at the Detroit-Windsor
Dance Academy. She excelled in varied dance forms such as ballet, jazz, modern
and hip-hop and was selected to become a performing member of the
Detroit-Windsor Second Dance Company as well as the Cass Tech Dance
Workshop.
Dance has taken Samara Michelle across the country, where she has toured and
performed in a number of venues. She has been honored at the Michigan Youth
Arts Festival for her choreography, performed in the acclaimed All City Dance
concerts across Michigan, appeared at Detroit's premier Music Hall, and been
featured at Detroit's Cobo Hall annual Toys for Tots program.
In January 2007, Michelle founded the Journey Dance Company. This ensemble of
professionally trained dancers fuses classical ballet technique with modern, jazz, and
nuances of street hip-hop. The JDC has performed throughout the metro Atlanta
community including The Sweet Auburn Festival, the Independent Black Film
Festival, Oglethorpe University, Morris Brown College and Georgia State University.
Michelle received her Bachelor's degree in Health and Physical Education from Clark
Atlanta University and her Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Georgia
State University. Her passions for youth and dance are at the heart of Journey
Performing Arts Center. As one of the few nonprofit children's dance studios in
Atlanta, Journey not only seeks to promote children's exposure to the arts, but to
boost their self-esteem and well-being. Michelle insures that the dance training
children receive at Journey is technically proficient and provided in an environment
that celebrates children's diversity and individualism. As a passionate advocate of
the arts in Atlanta, she works tirelessly to position Journey as a premiere resource
for Atlanta's artistic youth.
| Samara Michelle Artistic Director |
Silka Simmons
Dance Instructor
Journey Dance Company Member
At the age of 3, Silka Simmons was placed in dance classes, because it has been
said “she could not stop dancing around her grandmother’s kitchen.” It is evident
dance has always been in her heart. Silka continued to take classes off and on until
she joined with the New Birth Dance Ministry in 1998 under the direction of Tamera
Brown. She continued with them for the next 5 years; dancing in the pulpit, on stages
in the Georgia Dome, Philips Arena, and different concerts and conferences, under
the direction of Sabrina McKinley. Once in college, Silka continued to take dance
classes to increase her technical training. She taught African dance at Dance Steps
Inc. in Snellville, Georgia. She then traveled to London to study Modern a semester
at Middlesex University.
On her return and last year of school, Silka opened her own one-room Studio called
Divine Dance Studios in South Atlanta. The studio lasted a year and produced ten
students. After college, she continued to dance with New Life Dance Ministry, through
New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, once again under the direction of Tamera
Brown. She continued with New Life for 2 years until she was introduced to the
Journey Dance Company in 2008. Silka is presently dancing with the company and
teaching dance classes at Journey Arts Center. Silka loves the atmosphere at
Journey and plans to stay with the company as long as her body allows her to dance.
Dance Instructor
Journey Dance Company Member
At the age of 3, Silka Simmons was placed in dance classes, because it has been
said “she could not stop dancing around her grandmother’s kitchen.” It is evident
dance has always been in her heart. Silka continued to take classes off and on until
she joined with the New Birth Dance Ministry in 1998 under the direction of Tamera
Brown. She continued with them for the next 5 years; dancing in the pulpit, on stages
in the Georgia Dome, Philips Arena, and different concerts and conferences, under
the direction of Sabrina McKinley. Once in college, Silka continued to take dance
classes to increase her technical training. She taught African dance at Dance Steps
Inc. in Snellville, Georgia. She then traveled to London to study Modern a semester
at Middlesex University.
On her return and last year of school, Silka opened her own one-room Studio called
Divine Dance Studios in South Atlanta. The studio lasted a year and produced ten
students. After college, she continued to dance with New Life Dance Ministry, through
New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, once again under the direction of Tamera
Brown. She continued with New Life for 2 years until she was introduced to the
Journey Dance Company in 2008. Silka is presently dancing with the company and
teaching dance classes at Journey Arts Center. Silka loves the atmosphere at
Journey and plans to stay with the company as long as her body allows her to dance.
| Silka Simmons Dance Instructor/ Grant Committee Chair |
Chanel Marshall
Dance Instructor
Atlanta resident, Chanel Marshall, is a graduate of Georgia State University with dual
degrees in Psychology and Sociology, and currently works on research in the fields
of African American Studies and Human Sexuality. She began dancing at the age of
3 and hasn’t stopped yet! She is trained in Salsa Casino Rueda, ballet, tap, jazz,
African, and modern dance. Through the years, she has performed for many
organizations and churches throughout the country. She has enjoyed membership
in the Simply Dancing Elite Company, Georgia State University Dance Team (Da Paw
C), and the Salem Missionary Baptist Church Women’s Dance Ministry.
Presently, Chanel is a founding and touring member with Journey Dance Company
and a Joyleapers Member/Choreographer at Salem Missionary Baptist Church. She
also enjoys teaching beginner and intermediate salsa, burlesque, jazz, and stretch at
various dance studios throughout the city of Atlanta. In addition to dancing and
teaching she also enjoys choreography. Her works were displayed at Jack and Jill of
America’s 2006 Beautillion Militaire, Salem Missionary Baptist Church’s 2009
Cotillion, Journey Performing Art Center’s Spring Show, and The Saartjie Project
South, which she also co-directed. When she is not dancing she is working with her
mentoring organization, Mission: Mentor.
Dance Instructor
Atlanta resident, Chanel Marshall, is a graduate of Georgia State University with dual
degrees in Psychology and Sociology, and currently works on research in the fields
of African American Studies and Human Sexuality. She began dancing at the age of
3 and hasn’t stopped yet! She is trained in Salsa Casino Rueda, ballet, tap, jazz,
African, and modern dance. Through the years, she has performed for many
organizations and churches throughout the country. She has enjoyed membership
in the Simply Dancing Elite Company, Georgia State University Dance Team (Da Paw
C), and the Salem Missionary Baptist Church Women’s Dance Ministry.
Presently, Chanel is a founding and touring member with Journey Dance Company
and a Joyleapers Member/Choreographer at Salem Missionary Baptist Church. She
also enjoys teaching beginner and intermediate salsa, burlesque, jazz, and stretch at
various dance studios throughout the city of Atlanta. In addition to dancing and
teaching she also enjoys choreography. Her works were displayed at Jack and Jill of
America’s 2006 Beautillion Militaire, Salem Missionary Baptist Church’s 2009
Cotillion, Journey Performing Art Center’s Spring Show, and The Saartjie Project
South, which she also co-directed. When she is not dancing she is working with her
mentoring organization, Mission: Mentor.
| Jaali Dance Instructor |
Nilaja Green
Dance Instructor
Brandeis “Nilaja” Green found her passion for dance as well as other creative arts at
an early age in Brooklyn, New York and began formal training in high school. Her
primary training consisted of modern technique, including Graham, Dunham and
Horton styles. Nilaja has also studied ballet, hip-hop, jazz, liturgical and various forms
of African dance. Affiliations have included a co-directorship and performing member
of Black Movements Dance Theatre in Washington D.C, JNB Dance Productions in
Johannesburg, South Africa, TV appearances, performances at the International
Festival of Modern Dance, Johannesburg, performances in the National Black Arts
Festival and others. She has worked with nationally known choreographers from
companies such as Philadanco and Alvin Ailey American dance theatre as well as
engaged in choreographic feats of her own.
Nilaja currently ensures that dance occupies a significant place in her life in addition
to her graduate studies in psychology. Dance speaks to and for her soul. She is
currently a performing member with several local Atlanta dance companies, including
Journey Dance Company, where she teaches and is also involved in setting a new
choreographic work for the company. Recent appearances have included the
National Black Arts Festival, Savannah Gullah Festival, and Casual Cal’s Big Top
Circus. She has also performed with Journey at the Independent Black Film Awards
ceremony, their annual concerts, Auburn Avenue Festival, as well as various school
and other appearances. Nilaja is very excited to be a performing member of the
Journey Dance Company as a part of the Journey Performing Arts Center because in
addition to performing, community outreach is essential to her life’s purpose.
Dance Instructor
Brandeis “Nilaja” Green found her passion for dance as well as other creative arts at
an early age in Brooklyn, New York and began formal training in high school. Her
primary training consisted of modern technique, including Graham, Dunham and
Horton styles. Nilaja has also studied ballet, hip-hop, jazz, liturgical and various forms
of African dance. Affiliations have included a co-directorship and performing member
of Black Movements Dance Theatre in Washington D.C, JNB Dance Productions in
Johannesburg, South Africa, TV appearances, performances at the International
Festival of Modern Dance, Johannesburg, performances in the National Black Arts
Festival and others. She has worked with nationally known choreographers from
companies such as Philadanco and Alvin Ailey American dance theatre as well as
engaged in choreographic feats of her own.
Nilaja currently ensures that dance occupies a significant place in her life in addition
to her graduate studies in psychology. Dance speaks to and for her soul. She is
currently a performing member with several local Atlanta dance companies, including
Journey Dance Company, where she teaches and is also involved in setting a new
choreographic work for the company. Recent appearances have included the
National Black Arts Festival, Savannah Gullah Festival, and Casual Cal’s Big Top
Circus. She has also performed with Journey at the Independent Black Film Awards
ceremony, their annual concerts, Auburn Avenue Festival, as well as various school
and other appearances. Nilaja is very excited to be a performing member of the
Journey Dance Company as a part of the Journey Performing Arts Center because in
addition to performing, community outreach is essential to her life’s purpose.
| Nilaja Dance Instructor |
Angela Blocker
Dance Instructor
Angela Nicole Blocker is a 21 year old native of Detroit, Michigan. She attended
Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Samuel L. Mumford High School with
honors in 2005. She was accepted to and attended Clark Atlanta University. She
attended Clark Atlanta for 2 years and later transferred to Atlanta Broadcasting
Institute where she pursued her studies in Television and Radio. She graduated from
Atlanta Broadcasting Institute in January 2009 with a 3.83 grade point average.
Angela has had an extensive dance career. She first started dancing at the tender
age of 3. She attended a number of dance studios such as Wendy’s School of
Dance, Freedom Danz Xpressions, and Femtale Dance Studio. During her middle
and high school years she was a member of the Detroit Public Schools All City Dance
Company. In the 11th grade, Angela received the 2004 All City Dance Student
Choreography Award. In 1996 she was chosen to be part of Donald Byrd of New York’
s “Harlem Nutcracker.” She was in this production for 4 consecutive years. 1997 thru
1998 she was a part of Wayne State University Ballet Renaissance and she
performed in the production “Swan Lake,” where her group was featured in one of
Michigan’s local newspapers. Angela participated in the St. Louis Tap Festival and
she tapped with some of the greats: Savion Glover, Diane Walker, Jimmy Sly, one of
the Nicholas Brothers and many more. She later auditioned for and performed in the
Cincinnati Ballet Nutcracker. With her dance experience, she was employed by
Detroit Public Schools to teach dance in the Summer Programs for 2 consecutive
years.
One of Angela’s ultimate accomplishments was when she had the pleasure of
tapping with Gregory Hines at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American
History during Black History month in February 2004. They were featured in the
March edition of the Ebony magazine. She also performed as a special guest at the
UniverSoul Circus in Detroit. During her years at Clark Atlanta University she was
chosen to be the choreographer for the Homecoming Coronations of 2005 and 2006.
Dance Instructor
Angela Nicole Blocker is a 21 year old native of Detroit, Michigan. She attended
Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Samuel L. Mumford High School with
honors in 2005. She was accepted to and attended Clark Atlanta University. She
attended Clark Atlanta for 2 years and later transferred to Atlanta Broadcasting
Institute where she pursued her studies in Television and Radio. She graduated from
Atlanta Broadcasting Institute in January 2009 with a 3.83 grade point average.
Angela has had an extensive dance career. She first started dancing at the tender
age of 3. She attended a number of dance studios such as Wendy’s School of
Dance, Freedom Danz Xpressions, and Femtale Dance Studio. During her middle
and high school years she was a member of the Detroit Public Schools All City Dance
Company. In the 11th grade, Angela received the 2004 All City Dance Student
Choreography Award. In 1996 she was chosen to be part of Donald Byrd of New York’
s “Harlem Nutcracker.” She was in this production for 4 consecutive years. 1997 thru
1998 she was a part of Wayne State University Ballet Renaissance and she
performed in the production “Swan Lake,” where her group was featured in one of
Michigan’s local newspapers. Angela participated in the St. Louis Tap Festival and
she tapped with some of the greats: Savion Glover, Diane Walker, Jimmy Sly, one of
the Nicholas Brothers and many more. She later auditioned for and performed in the
Cincinnati Ballet Nutcracker. With her dance experience, she was employed by
Detroit Public Schools to teach dance in the Summer Programs for 2 consecutive
years.
One of Angela’s ultimate accomplishments was when she had the pleasure of
tapping with Gregory Hines at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American
History during Black History month in February 2004. They were featured in the
March edition of the Ebony magazine. She also performed as a special guest at the
UniverSoul Circus in Detroit. During her years at Clark Atlanta University she was
chosen to be the choreographer for the Homecoming Coronations of 2005 and 2006.
| Angela Dance Instructor |
Elizabeth Dillon
Dance Instructor
Elizabeth Dillon was born and raised in Roswell, Georgia; as a young girl she
dreamed of participating in the arts and dance. At the age of 7, her family was struck
with tragedy when her eldest brother was murdered. At the funeral she was
introduced to a friend of his, who later on came to be her very first dance teacher. At
that point, her passion for dance was birthed. She has participated in several dance
ensembles ranging from step, to ballet, to liturgical dance. Dance has taken Elizabeth
to 6 different countries, including Kenya, Uganda, and Italy. Elizabeth has been
dancing for 11 years now and teaching for 4. Her specialized area is Liturgical dance.
Elizabeth believes liturgical dance is not just a form of worship for Christians but also
a form of dance connected to African roots dealing with spirituality and movement of
the body.
Elizabeth’s goal as a teacher is to educate students on the technical, spiritual and
emotional aspects of liturgical dancing, by incorporating ballet, African and lyrical
dancing to create a style of dance that is unique to her.
Dance Instructor
Elizabeth Dillon was born and raised in Roswell, Georgia; as a young girl she
dreamed of participating in the arts and dance. At the age of 7, her family was struck
with tragedy when her eldest brother was murdered. At the funeral she was
introduced to a friend of his, who later on came to be her very first dance teacher. At
that point, her passion for dance was birthed. She has participated in several dance
ensembles ranging from step, to ballet, to liturgical dance. Dance has taken Elizabeth
to 6 different countries, including Kenya, Uganda, and Italy. Elizabeth has been
dancing for 11 years now and teaching for 4. Her specialized area is Liturgical dance.
Elizabeth believes liturgical dance is not just a form of worship for Christians but also
a form of dance connected to African roots dealing with spirituality and movement of
the body.
Elizabeth’s goal as a teacher is to educate students on the technical, spiritual and
emotional aspects of liturgical dancing, by incorporating ballet, African and lyrical
dancing to create a style of dance that is unique to her.
| Liz Dance Instructor |
Donyal Andrews
Dance Instructor
Donyal D. Andrews is an “Atlanta Peach” and proud of it! Her history of dance dates
back to the age of 3, when she began at Spelman College's School of Dance under
the teaching of Marvette Baldwin. Donyal began with ballet and went on to explore
other styles such as jazz, modern and African. She auditioned for and was accepted
to the North Atlanta High School's Performing Arts magnet program. During this time,
Donyal also began dancing with Ballethnic Dance Company, where she took pointe
classes and learned pas de deux. She had the opportunity to dance in the play
Urban Nutcracker with Ballethnic for 3 consecutive years and performed during the
halftime show of the 1994 Super Bowl in Atlanta. As a FAMU Rattler, Donyal was a
member of the basketball dance team. Most recently, she has taught classes at her
church and assists in some area daycares.
Donyal believes that dancing comes from the heart and is a gift from God. Even as a
wife and mother, dance is what Donyal will always love and desire to be a part of,
sharing and giving of her talent as she feels she's been called to do.
Dance Instructor
Donyal D. Andrews is an “Atlanta Peach” and proud of it! Her history of dance dates
back to the age of 3, when she began at Spelman College's School of Dance under
the teaching of Marvette Baldwin. Donyal began with ballet and went on to explore
other styles such as jazz, modern and African. She auditioned for and was accepted
to the North Atlanta High School's Performing Arts magnet program. During this time,
Donyal also began dancing with Ballethnic Dance Company, where she took pointe
classes and learned pas de deux. She had the opportunity to dance in the play
Urban Nutcracker with Ballethnic for 3 consecutive years and performed during the
halftime show of the 1994 Super Bowl in Atlanta. As a FAMU Rattler, Donyal was a
member of the basketball dance team. Most recently, she has taught classes at her
church and assists in some area daycares.
Donyal believes that dancing comes from the heart and is a gift from God. Even as a
wife and mother, dance is what Donyal will always love and desire to be a part of,
sharing and giving of her talent as she feels she's been called to do.
| Donyal Andrews Dance Instructor |
Zehra Abdul-Halim
Dance Instructor
Zehra Abdul-Halim is a 30 year old native of the Pittsburgh community, residing in
Atlanta with 19 years of experience as a dancer, instructor and choreographer. As a
child she dreamed of dance and began her first class with Ms. Holland, her
elementary school PE teacher. The dance class was West African dance and was
taught by Sister Tokwase, Sister Omelika, and Baba Autu. Later, these 9 little girls
would form Barefoot Ballet Dance Ensemble in addition to training with Spelman's
Children's Dance Extension. Next, Zehra attended North Atlanta High School where
she studied under great dancers like Gary Harrison, Leonard Robertson, Jennifer
Bell, Terri Axum, Kris Cangelosi, and Jerylyn Warner. After graduation, she
attended Bethune-Cookman College, where she found dance again, with Orchesis,
under the direction Ms. Carla Lester. She later transferred to Spelman College and
joined the Spriggs-Burroughs Players, a drama club. There, Zehra obtained a BA
from Spelman College in Drama/Dance & Psychology.
Throughout her exciting dance career, she has performed in the 1994 Super Bowl
halftime show and during the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. She has also
volunteered with students at Kippways Academy West End and Atlanta Public
Schools through Hands On Atlanta.
Zehra would like to have her own professional group to inspire others in dance as
well as motivate African American children to be educated and successful in the
arts. Also, she would like to one day reunite and thank the dancers/teachers who
loved and motivated her throughout her life. Zehra has taken classes at Total
Dance Theatre and trained with Ray Hall Dance Ensemble. Currently, she is training
with Gotta Dance Atlanta.
Dance Instructor
Zehra Abdul-Halim is a 30 year old native of the Pittsburgh community, residing in
Atlanta with 19 years of experience as a dancer, instructor and choreographer. As a
child she dreamed of dance and began her first class with Ms. Holland, her
elementary school PE teacher. The dance class was West African dance and was
taught by Sister Tokwase, Sister Omelika, and Baba Autu. Later, these 9 little girls
would form Barefoot Ballet Dance Ensemble in addition to training with Spelman's
Children's Dance Extension. Next, Zehra attended North Atlanta High School where
she studied under great dancers like Gary Harrison, Leonard Robertson, Jennifer
Bell, Terri Axum, Kris Cangelosi, and Jerylyn Warner. After graduation, she
attended Bethune-Cookman College, where she found dance again, with Orchesis,
under the direction Ms. Carla Lester. She later transferred to Spelman College and
joined the Spriggs-Burroughs Players, a drama club. There, Zehra obtained a BA
from Spelman College in Drama/Dance & Psychology.
Throughout her exciting dance career, she has performed in the 1994 Super Bowl
halftime show and during the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. She has also
volunteered with students at Kippways Academy West End and Atlanta Public
Schools through Hands On Atlanta.
Zehra would like to have her own professional group to inspire others in dance as
well as motivate African American children to be educated and successful in the
arts. Also, she would like to one day reunite and thank the dancers/teachers who
loved and motivated her throughout her life. Zehra has taken classes at Total
Dance Theatre and trained with Ray Hall Dance Ensemble. Currently, she is training
with Gotta Dance Atlanta.
| Zehra Abdul-Halim Dance Instructor |
Irene Datcher
Drama Instructor
Irene Datcher, singer, actress, composer, and arranger; has performed on
Broadway, off-Broadway, in national and international theatre companies, as well
as touring, and internationally singing and recording Jazz, R&B, and Gospel. Irene
has served as a musical director, musical consultant, adjunct professor,
artist-in-residence, guest lecturer, and as a theatre & music workshop facilitator
throughout the country. Irene considers being a member of the Journey family as a
great opportunity to continue to bring excellence while supporting the exciting
vision whose time has come.
Drama Instructor
Irene Datcher, singer, actress, composer, and arranger; has performed on
Broadway, off-Broadway, in national and international theatre companies, as well
as touring, and internationally singing and recording Jazz, R&B, and Gospel. Irene
has served as a musical director, musical consultant, adjunct professor,
artist-in-residence, guest lecturer, and as a theatre & music workshop facilitator
throughout the country. Irene considers being a member of the Journey family as a
great opportunity to continue to bring excellence while supporting the exciting
vision whose time has come.
| Irene Datcher Drama Instructor |
Tamicka “TJ” Johnson
After School Program Instructor
Journey Dance Company Member
Poet, Actor, Dancer, Playwright, and Musician Tamicka "TJ" Johnson has been
performing from the tender age of 5. Having performed in Bermuda, the United
Kingdom and France, TJ comes to Journey from Bermuda by way of London. TJ
holds a
National Diploma in Performing Arts and a Higher National Diploma in
Performance, Entertainment and Media Studies from West Herts College, UK. On
scholarship from Bermuda Music and Dramatic Society, TJ has recently completed
her studies at Atlanta Technical College with Honors and is currently a member of
Journey Dance Company. She plans to remain in Atlanta
and continue her foray into its Arts scene, making her mark in the fields of Poetry,
Music and Drama and Movement.
After School Program Instructor
Journey Dance Company Member
Poet, Actor, Dancer, Playwright, and Musician Tamicka "TJ" Johnson has been
performing from the tender age of 5. Having performed in Bermuda, the United
Kingdom and France, TJ comes to Journey from Bermuda by way of London. TJ
holds a
National Diploma in Performing Arts and a Higher National Diploma in
Performance, Entertainment and Media Studies from West Herts College, UK. On
scholarship from Bermuda Music and Dramatic Society, TJ has recently completed
her studies at Atlanta Technical College with Honors and is currently a member of
Journey Dance Company. She plans to remain in Atlanta
and continue her foray into its Arts scene, making her mark in the fields of Poetry,
Music and Drama and Movement.
| TJ Johnson Company Member |
Gary Mitchell
Martial Arts Instructor
Shr Fu Gary Mitchell is a native Georgian, and runs the Chien Hong School of
Kung Fu in Atlanta. The school was named after Lin Chien Hong, Shr Fu Mitchell's
teacher and inspiration, with whom he trained in Taipei, Taiwan for a number of
years.
Shr Fu Mitchell became a specialist in Hung Fist, a southern Shao-Lin style, as well
as Chinese lion and dragon dance in the styles of both Northern and Southern
China.
Favoring the traditional approach to martial arts, Shr Fu Mitchell has studied
weaponry and weaponry forms, as well as gaining some knowledge of Chinese
medicine.
With over 20 year's experience, Shr Fu Mitchell has competed in local, national
and international events, including a full-contact international tournament in Taipei.
He has also been involved in martial arts demonstrations at many cultural festivals.
Shr Fu Mitchell believes that children are the future of the art, so he ensures that
demonstrations take place at all kinds of educational institutions. His showmanship
and expertise have enlivened many events; in addition he has frequently been
invited to perform as a special guest at 'master' demonstrations across the US. His
interest in the culture and heritage of his chosen style has led him to host annual
Chinese New Year celebrations at the school. Shr Fu Mitchell and Chien Hong
School are actively involved in Asian cultural arts festivals whenever possible.
Today he continues to expand his knowledge, studying all aspects of combat,
weaponry and the disciplines inherent in Shao-Lin Fist Styles, as well as teaching
many different classes at his school.
Martial Arts Instructor
Shr Fu Gary Mitchell is a native Georgian, and runs the Chien Hong School of
Kung Fu in Atlanta. The school was named after Lin Chien Hong, Shr Fu Mitchell's
teacher and inspiration, with whom he trained in Taipei, Taiwan for a number of
years.
Shr Fu Mitchell became a specialist in Hung Fist, a southern Shao-Lin style, as well
as Chinese lion and dragon dance in the styles of both Northern and Southern
China.
Favoring the traditional approach to martial arts, Shr Fu Mitchell has studied
weaponry and weaponry forms, as well as gaining some knowledge of Chinese
medicine.
With over 20 year's experience, Shr Fu Mitchell has competed in local, national
and international events, including a full-contact international tournament in Taipei.
He has also been involved in martial arts demonstrations at many cultural festivals.
Shr Fu Mitchell believes that children are the future of the art, so he ensures that
demonstrations take place at all kinds of educational institutions. His showmanship
and expertise have enlivened many events; in addition he has frequently been
invited to perform as a special guest at 'master' demonstrations across the US. His
interest in the culture and heritage of his chosen style has led him to host annual
Chinese New Year celebrations at the school. Shr Fu Mitchell and Chien Hong
School are actively involved in Asian cultural arts festivals whenever possible.
Today he continues to expand his knowledge, studying all aspects of combat,
weaponry and the disciplines inherent in Shao-Lin Fist Styles, as well as teaching
many different classes at his school.
| Gary Mitchell Martial Art Instructor |
| Meet Our Staff |
Danielle Elliott
Executive Director
Danielle Elliott is the Executive Director for Journey Performing Arts Center.
Growing up in Detroit, dancing was her life. It all started at the young age of 2. At
the age of 6 she began dancing at Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy. Danielle was a
member of the Detroit Windsor Jr. Dance Company and has performed at the Fox
Theatre, Music Hall, Cobo Hall in Detroit, along with other various venues
throughout Michigan and in Bermuda. She continued her dance training until going
away to school in Atlanta. She attended Clark Atlanta University majoring in Criminal
Justice.
After school she worked many years in the banking industry in management. Over
the time she became discouraged with corporate America and went back to her
roots and first love love; the Arts. Danielle truly enjoys working and growing with
Journey.
Executive Director
Danielle Elliott is the Executive Director for Journey Performing Arts Center.
Growing up in Detroit, dancing was her life. It all started at the young age of 2. At
the age of 6 she began dancing at Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy. Danielle was a
member of the Detroit Windsor Jr. Dance Company and has performed at the Fox
Theatre, Music Hall, Cobo Hall in Detroit, along with other various venues
throughout Michigan and in Bermuda. She continued her dance training until going
away to school in Atlanta. She attended Clark Atlanta University majoring in Criminal
Justice.
After school she worked many years in the banking industry in management. Over
the time she became discouraged with corporate America and went back to her
roots and first love love; the Arts. Danielle truly enjoys working and growing with
Journey.
| Danielle Elliott Executive Director |
Rhea Dawkins
Business Manager/ Dance Instructor
Rhea Dawkins is a Cincinnati, Ohio native. She is currently attending Clark Atlanta
University with a major in Business and a concentration in Management. As a
college student, Rhea stays active in campus life and is a proud member of the
Woman's Leadership Council and Pre-Alumni Council. Although her concentration
in school relates to business, she has a love for theatre and over a decade of
experience in that arena. Pursuing a Bachelor's of Arts degree in Business
Administration from Clark Atlanta University, she plans to own her own theatre
company one day.
Business Manager/ Dance Instructor
Rhea Dawkins is a Cincinnati, Ohio native. She is currently attending Clark Atlanta
University with a major in Business and a concentration in Management. As a
college student, Rhea stays active in campus life and is a proud member of the
Woman's Leadership Council and Pre-Alumni Council. Although her concentration
in school relates to business, she has a love for theatre and over a decade of
experience in that arena. Pursuing a Bachelor's of Arts degree in Business
Administration from Clark Atlanta University, she plans to own her own theatre
company one day.
| Rhea Dawkins Business Manager/ Dance Instructor |
| Journey Performing Arts Center, Inc Georgia 501(c) (3) Tax Exempt Corporation |
| Business Office 14 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta GA 30307 Email:Info@JourneyArtsCenter.org 404-622-2585 |
| Nelson Barnes Martial Art Instructor |
Nelson Barnes
Martial Arts Instructor
Nelson Barnes “Thairu Obuya KMT” is a graduate of Georgia State University class
of 2007 with a Bachelor’s Degree in African-American Studies. He received the
name Thairu Kibwana Obuya in that department for his continued work in activism,
community organizing and service. Thairu is a member of the Malcolm X Grassroots
Movement (MXGM) Atlantachapter that sponsors martial arts and self-defense
classes on Saturdays at the Joseph B. Whitehead YMCA. The classes are for the
Martial Art, Kupigana Ngumi (Swahili for the art of self-defense or the art of fighting
with the fist) which is an Afrikan martial art taught by the principles of the Afrikan
Institute for Martial Arts (AIMA).
Thairu has practiced martial arts such as Tae Kwon Do and Karate, and has
practiced Kupigana Ngumi for nearly 3 years obtaining the rank of Red Shirt.
Rankings in Kupigana Ngumi do not go by belts, but by shirts with the highest level
of attainment is a Gold Shirt (which is rare). Most instructors of the art have Black
Shirts (equivalent to a Black Belt in other systems) but Thairu, with his prior
knowledge of other martial arts and high knowledge of Kupigana Ngumi was given
the blessing by Ba-Ba Sulaiman Isa at the level of Red Shirt. Thairu has taught self-
defense in numerous Saturday classes at the YMCA as well as in other venues for
Family Fitness, an annual event celebrating Black August.
Martial Arts Instructor
Nelson Barnes “Thairu Obuya KMT” is a graduate of Georgia State University class
of 2007 with a Bachelor’s Degree in African-American Studies. He received the
name Thairu Kibwana Obuya in that department for his continued work in activism,
community organizing and service. Thairu is a member of the Malcolm X Grassroots
Movement (MXGM) Atlantachapter that sponsors martial arts and self-defense
classes on Saturdays at the Joseph B. Whitehead YMCA. The classes are for the
Martial Art, Kupigana Ngumi (Swahili for the art of self-defense or the art of fighting
with the fist) which is an Afrikan martial art taught by the principles of the Afrikan
Institute for Martial Arts (AIMA).
Thairu has practiced martial arts such as Tae Kwon Do and Karate, and has
practiced Kupigana Ngumi for nearly 3 years obtaining the rank of Red Shirt.
Rankings in Kupigana Ngumi do not go by belts, but by shirts with the highest level
of attainment is a Gold Shirt (which is rare). Most instructors of the art have Black
Shirts (equivalent to a Black Belt in other systems) but Thairu, with his prior
knowledge of other martial arts and high knowledge of Kupigana Ngumi was given
the blessing by Ba-Ba Sulaiman Isa at the level of Red Shirt. Thairu has taught self-
defense in numerous Saturday classes at the YMCA as well as in other venues for
Family Fitness, an annual event celebrating Black August.
Alisheia Lewis
Web Developer
Alisheia is a graduate of two of Detroit's most elite public institutions, Alonzo W.
Bates Academy & Cass Technical High School. She began studying Commercial
Art in 94 at Cass Tech. There she received several artistic awards, won several art
competitions & was among the top of the class in her curriculum. While at Cass
She was a member of both the Art Club & the National Arts Honor Society.
During her college years at HBCU Benedict College in Columbia, SC. She has
achieved graduating with honors, becoming a Who's Who Among Students in
Colleges & Universities recipient and an All American Scholar. Alisheia majored in
Mass Communication with a focus in print and a passion for writing. She was a
member of the National Black Journalist Association & She is also the Co Founder
of BCARTI (Benedict College Art Intelligentsia) inspiring other Colleges &
Universities to re-start their art clubs & formed alliances among South Carolina Art
clubs such as USC, Claflin U, Allen U & South Carolina State U.
After graduating college she took up an internship with Okane Management Group
in Detroit, MI. She was then hired in as a Graphic Artist under one of their umbrella
companies, Say No More Graphics. When Okane decided to open up another
company, Obituary Plus, CEO Miles Dixon asked Alisheia if she would like a
position as the Manager & Head Designer of his new venture.
Alisheia has also worked closely with children for over 10 years, in a family Day
Care business, the Lewis Group Day Care as a certified Assistant. She worked
with different schools in Columbia while being trained for AmeriCorp. She is a
personal caregiver & volunteers to teach computer graphics to children with an
interest.
Currently Alisheia Lewis is a freelance Computer Graphic Artist known mostly by
"Lew" (a high school basketball nickname) that does independent contract artwork
under the name "Lewcid Graphics" for clients Internationally. She is also working
on 2 scripts for Children programs while learning 3-D Animation with Detroit
Company, Colored Cards & Things & last but not least is Journey’s resident Web
developer.
Web Developer
Alisheia is a graduate of two of Detroit's most elite public institutions, Alonzo W.
Bates Academy & Cass Technical High School. She began studying Commercial
Art in 94 at Cass Tech. There she received several artistic awards, won several art
competitions & was among the top of the class in her curriculum. While at Cass
She was a member of both the Art Club & the National Arts Honor Society.
During her college years at HBCU Benedict College in Columbia, SC. She has
achieved graduating with honors, becoming a Who's Who Among Students in
Colleges & Universities recipient and an All American Scholar. Alisheia majored in
Mass Communication with a focus in print and a passion for writing. She was a
member of the National Black Journalist Association & She is also the Co Founder
of BCARTI (Benedict College Art Intelligentsia) inspiring other Colleges &
Universities to re-start their art clubs & formed alliances among South Carolina Art
clubs such as USC, Claflin U, Allen U & South Carolina State U.
After graduating college she took up an internship with Okane Management Group
in Detroit, MI. She was then hired in as a Graphic Artist under one of their umbrella
companies, Say No More Graphics. When Okane decided to open up another
company, Obituary Plus, CEO Miles Dixon asked Alisheia if she would like a
position as the Manager & Head Designer of his new venture.
Alisheia has also worked closely with children for over 10 years, in a family Day
Care business, the Lewis Group Day Care as a certified Assistant. She worked
with different schools in Columbia while being trained for AmeriCorp. She is a
personal caregiver & volunteers to teach computer graphics to children with an
interest.
Currently Alisheia Lewis is a freelance Computer Graphic Artist known mostly by
"Lew" (a high school basketball nickname) that does independent contract artwork
under the name "Lewcid Graphics" for clients Internationally. She is also working
on 2 scripts for Children programs while learning 3-D Animation with Detroit
Company, Colored Cards & Things & last but not least is Journey’s resident Web
developer.
| Alisheia "Lew" Lewis Web Developer |
Kimberly Chantack
Dance Instructor
Kimberly Chantack started dancing at the age of 10 at Creative Outlet Dance
Theater Of Brooklyn. There, at the age of 16, she became an assistant teacher.
Just 2 years later, at the age of 18, she became a full time teacher. After high
school, she attended Long Island University as a modern dance major. During
college she had the pleasure of performing for Michael Jackson. She has also
performed in many different plays in the United States, such as The Maffa, Black
Nativity, He Got Up and Unto Us, just to name a few. Kimberly looks forward to
impacting children’s lives in a positive way through dance while continuing her own
dance career.
Dance Instructor
Kimberly Chantack started dancing at the age of 10 at Creative Outlet Dance
Theater Of Brooklyn. There, at the age of 16, she became an assistant teacher.
Just 2 years later, at the age of 18, she became a full time teacher. After high
school, she attended Long Island University as a modern dance major. During
college she had the pleasure of performing for Michael Jackson. She has also
performed in many different plays in the United States, such as The Maffa, Black
Nativity, He Got Up and Unto Us, just to name a few. Kimberly looks forward to
impacting children’s lives in a positive way through dance while continuing her own
dance career.
| Kim Chantack Dance Instructor |
Candice Elliott
Director, Community Outreach
Candice Joanne Elliott’s passion for dance began at the tender age of 3 years old
in Detroit. Since then she has been surrounded by the arts in every aspect of her
life. As a child she balanced playing the violin and viola, gymnastics, cheerleading,
and attending classes with her aunt at Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy. It was at
Detroit-Windsor she realized dance was an intricate part of her life. She excelled in
classes such as Jazz, Tap, Modern, African, Ballet and Pointe. She was a member
of the teen mentorship program which taught her responsibility, confidence, work
ethic, team work, and a plethora of other traits that she still carries with her today.
At 15 she became a member of the Detroit–Windsor Jr. Dance Company, where
she continued her dance education throughout high school. Throughout her
dance career she has performed at Cobo Hall, The Fox Theatre, The Music Hall,
Hart Plaza, and various other venues from Michigan to Bermuda. Candice
graduated from Clark Atlanta University with a B.S in Mathematics. After college
she worked several years in the banking and finance industry.
Through it all Candice never lost her love for dance and the arts. She takes
several adult classes at Journey Performing Arts Center and at other studios
throughout Atlanta. Candice is currently the Outreach Director for Journey
Performing Arts Center. Through outreach she has the opportunity to expose and
enlighten other children and teens about the benefits dance and the arts brought
to her life. Candice believes that without her training in dance and exposure to the
arts she wouldn’t be the well-rounded woman she is today. She loves working with
outreach because she is adamant about teaching children the same concepts that
helped to shape who she is. In her spare time Candice enjoys spending time with
family and friends, reading, shopping, playing with Sunny bird, and most of all
DANCING!
Director, Community Outreach
Candice Joanne Elliott’s passion for dance began at the tender age of 3 years old
in Detroit. Since then she has been surrounded by the arts in every aspect of her
life. As a child she balanced playing the violin and viola, gymnastics, cheerleading,
and attending classes with her aunt at Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy. It was at
Detroit-Windsor she realized dance was an intricate part of her life. She excelled in
classes such as Jazz, Tap, Modern, African, Ballet and Pointe. She was a member
of the teen mentorship program which taught her responsibility, confidence, work
ethic, team work, and a plethora of other traits that she still carries with her today.
At 15 she became a member of the Detroit–Windsor Jr. Dance Company, where
she continued her dance education throughout high school. Throughout her
dance career she has performed at Cobo Hall, The Fox Theatre, The Music Hall,
Hart Plaza, and various other venues from Michigan to Bermuda. Candice
graduated from Clark Atlanta University with a B.S in Mathematics. After college
she worked several years in the banking and finance industry.
Through it all Candice never lost her love for dance and the arts. She takes
several adult classes at Journey Performing Arts Center and at other studios
throughout Atlanta. Candice is currently the Outreach Director for Journey
Performing Arts Center. Through outreach she has the opportunity to expose and
enlighten other children and teens about the benefits dance and the arts brought
to her life. Candice believes that without her training in dance and exposure to the
arts she wouldn’t be the well-rounded woman she is today. She loves working with
outreach because she is adamant about teaching children the same concepts that
helped to shape who she is. In her spare time Candice enjoys spending time with
family and friends, reading, shopping, playing with Sunny bird, and most of all
DANCING!
| Candice Elliott Director, Community Outreach |