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LEAD WITH LOVE.
CLASSES
Setting the Standard for Excellence in Arts Education
STYLES
West African Dance
Adult Tap
Step
Liturgical
Jazz
Hip Hop
Ballet
Acting
TUMBLING
INfluence Leadership Institute
STEAM
Tutoring
Tap
Contemporary
Adult Yoga
MEET YOUR
INSTRUCTORS
NOTHING BUT THE BEST FOR YOU
G. Pilar Lowden
Dance Educator, Researcher & Performing Artist
Georgette Pilar Wilder Lowden founded both Hayiya Dance Theatre (23rd Season) and Hayiya Dance Theatre, Inc. (28th Season) as a student at Wesleyan College. She is a doctoral student in Texas Woman's University's Dance PhD program. Her research on care, place, relevance, and storytelling in pedagogy is a reflection of her own passion for equity in arts in education.
Georgette Pilar Wilder Lowden founded both Hayiya Dance Theatre (23rd Season) and Hayiya Dance Theatre, Inc. (28th Season) as a student at Wesleyan College. She is a doctoral student in Texas Woman's University's Dance PhD program. Her research on care, place, relevance, and storytelling in pedagogy is a reflection of her own passion for equity in arts in education.
Nadia Kitchens
Nadia is a dedicated performing arts educator with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Theatre from Alabama State University, where she also studied dance. Born in Richmond, VA, she has been passionate about the arts since childhood. With a rich background in singing, acting, and dancing, Nadia brings a wealth of experience and creativity to her teaching, inspiring her students to explore the world of performance arts.
Taylor Harrell
Taylor is so excited to be a part of the Hayiya family! She has a passion for music, performing, and teaching! She enjoys inspiring others to love music as much as she does! Growing up in Nashville, TN Taylor started singing and playing instruments very early on. At the age of 6, Taylor started taking piano lessons and learned to play the guitar and ukulele in high school. She received her bachelor’s degree in Music Business with minors in Vocal Performance and Songwriting. After graduating, she discovered her love for musical theater and performed at Dollywood Theme Park! Since then she has been a part of many different theater companies in the Southeast. Taylor has taught piano, guitar, ukulele, and voice lessons to ages 5-65 and is so happy to share her knowledge and experience with aspiring musicians!
Colby Marshall
Colby Marshall was born and raised in Macon, Georgia. Formerly a competitive cheerleader and ballroom dancer with specialties in American Rhythm and Latin, as well as New York Hustle, Lindy Hop/Jitterbug, Carolina Shag, & Broadway Styles, Colby has served as lead choreographer for 25+ shows for theatres and events in the middle Georgia area, five for which she headed up the creative team as director, including Theatre Macon’s mainstage production of Ain’t Misbehavin’ (2o16) , Andew Lloyd Weber’s Cats (performed by the Youth Actors’ Company of Theatre Macon, 2015), and January 2017’s YAC production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Colby consulted with the Alzheimer’s Association to pull together professional dance talent for Dancing Stars of Central Georgia from the event’s Macon inception, and participated as a pro dancer for a star herself for six years.
Kierra Brown
Kierra Brown is a passionate and accomplished dance educator with over a decade of experience teaching at Hayiya Dance Theater, where she has been a pivotal instructor since 2013. Her love for dance began at the tender age of three, when she immersed herself in various styles, including ballet, tap, and jazz. This early start fostered a deep connection to the art form, which has since blossomed into a lifelong career dedicated to teaching and mentoring young dancers.
Kierra's teaching career spans a diverse range of institutions, from middle schools to high schools, where she has not only taught dance but also helped students develop confidence, discipline, and creativity through movement. Her leadership and guidance have now led her to Fort Valley State University, where she proudly coaches the Dancing Doll Divas, a team known for its precision, energy, and passion.
Her experience in both classical and contemporary dance forms allows her to bring a well-rounded, dynamic approach to her students, encouraging them to push boundaries and embrace their unique styles. As a teacher, Kierra focuses not only on technical skill but also on fostering a love for dance that transcends the classroom and stage.
*"Dance is the hidden language of the soul,"* as Martha Graham once said, and Kierra embodies this belief in every class she teaches, striving to help each student express themselves through the universal language of dance.
Kierra's teaching career spans a diverse range of institutions, from middle schools to high schools, where she has not only taught dance but also helped students develop confidence, discipline, and creativity through movement. Her leadership and guidance have now led her to Fort Valley State University, where she proudly coaches the Dancing Doll Divas, a team known for its precision, energy, and passion.
Her experience in both classical and contemporary dance forms allows her to bring a well-rounded, dynamic approach to her students, encouraging them to push boundaries and embrace their unique styles. As a teacher, Kierra focuses not only on technical skill but also on fostering a love for dance that transcends the classroom and stage.
*"Dance is the hidden language of the soul,"* as Martha Graham once said, and Kierra embodies this belief in every class she teaches, striving to help each student express themselves through the universal language of dance.
Princess Davis
Meet Princess Davis, a vibrant and fun dance teacher, choreographer and performer hailing from Macon, Georgia! She is also the mother of Wayne who is an energetic 6 year old who enjoys dancing, creating YouTube content, TikToks and Tumbling. She has over 20 years of performing experience. Princess has honed her craft at prestigious places like Hayiya Dance Theatre, Dance411Studios, Millennium Studios in L.A., and G-Rhythm Performing Arts Center, Dance Dynamics Studio, Theatre National Daniel Serrano (Africa), etc... mastering an array of styles.
Princess has been on numerous nationally broadcast television programs, including multiple sitcoms, BET's 106 and Park, BET's Celebrity Hair Battle, VH1's Kandi Burruss Wedding, MTV's Rick Ross Dream, WE Tv and more.
Princess was featured as a speaker for TEDx Macon, worked as a brand ambassador for Blazin' 92.3 of Cumulus Media for five years, board member for the breast cancer non-profit organization Women of Vision 3000 and member of Autism Has a Face Foundation. In 2019, she took home the title of Dancing Stars of Central Georgia, proving that her passion for dance knows no bounds. Get ready to be inspired by Princess's spirit and creative talent!
Princess has been on numerous nationally broadcast television programs, including multiple sitcoms, BET's 106 and Park, BET's Celebrity Hair Battle, VH1's Kandi Burruss Wedding, MTV's Rick Ross Dream, WE Tv and more.
Princess was featured as a speaker for TEDx Macon, worked as a brand ambassador for Blazin' 92.3 of Cumulus Media for five years, board member for the breast cancer non-profit organization Women of Vision 3000 and member of Autism Has a Face Foundation. In 2019, she took home the title of Dancing Stars of Central Georgia, proving that her passion for dance knows no bounds. Get ready to be inspired by Princess's spirit and creative talent!
Angelita Phillips
“HAIRSPRAY” is Angelita's first production with Macon Little Theatre; however, she has been dancing as long as she can remember. Angelita’s Legacy and childhood dreams continue to live on! As a young girl, Angelita dreamed of dancing and acting on stage in front of a huge audience started at Progressive Christian Academy in the last year performance Rainbow Connection there she learned that choreographing dances was the start of her passion. Well, Angelita’s dream and passion came true during her early years where she found her love and happy place performing in “Little Shop of Horror” and “Rent “in High school. She later joined the Booker T. Washington's Teen Performing Arts Center (TPAC) there she performed in a host of productions including “Pearlie” and “The Wiz”.
Because of Angelita’s passion and love for dancing and children, she wanted more, and she got it during her later teenage years. The doors opened for Angelita to become a high-profile “Elite” dancer with Phillips Performing Arts Studio, a family-owned business, where she performed all over the city of Macon-Bibb County at schools, churches, organizations, and Citywide functions. The role of Elite dancer earned Angelita a position as a youth dance instructor for Phillips performing arts. While working with the youth at Phillips performing Arts Studio, she choreographed several amazing dance routines for Christmas and Easter Productions. Angelita’s dance skillset advanced her even further, she was offered and accepted a dance instructor/choreographer’s position with Greater Allen Chapel AME church, while there she taught and conducted many holiday productions over a period of years.
Angelita Phillips is currently a principal member of Hayiya Dance Theater, Inc. and an Instructor for Hayiya Dance Theatre. Angelita has been a part of Hayiya Dance Theatre for over twenty years. She is the proud mother of a very successful daughter, a college student at The Fort Valley State University. Like herself, Angelita’s daughter Mahogany Rice started dancing as a little girl, and continues to perform with Hayiya Dance Theater, as often as possible.
Angelita is an amazing, multi-tasked young lady. She not only succeeds in her Performing Arts Career. She is also dedicated to her fulltime career job, in her professional field where she has been working for over twenty years. Hats off to Angelita Phillips for being a dedicated, committed instructor at Hayiya Dance Theatre.
Because of Angelita’s passion and love for dancing and children, she wanted more, and she got it during her later teenage years. The doors opened for Angelita to become a high-profile “Elite” dancer with Phillips Performing Arts Studio, a family-owned business, where she performed all over the city of Macon-Bibb County at schools, churches, organizations, and Citywide functions. The role of Elite dancer earned Angelita a position as a youth dance instructor for Phillips performing arts. While working with the youth at Phillips performing Arts Studio, she choreographed several amazing dance routines for Christmas and Easter Productions. Angelita’s dance skillset advanced her even further, she was offered and accepted a dance instructor/choreographer’s position with Greater Allen Chapel AME church, while there she taught and conducted many holiday productions over a period of years.
Angelita Phillips is currently a principal member of Hayiya Dance Theater, Inc. and an Instructor for Hayiya Dance Theatre. Angelita has been a part of Hayiya Dance Theatre for over twenty years. She is the proud mother of a very successful daughter, a college student at The Fort Valley State University. Like herself, Angelita’s daughter Mahogany Rice started dancing as a little girl, and continues to perform with Hayiya Dance Theater, as often as possible.
Angelita is an amazing, multi-tasked young lady. She not only succeeds in her Performing Arts Career. She is also dedicated to her fulltime career job, in her professional field where she has been working for over twenty years. Hats off to Angelita Phillips for being a dedicated, committed instructor at Hayiya Dance Theatre.
Zaria Anderson
Zaria Anderson is a dedicated professional dancer, choreographer, and educator with a strong
background in media and instructional technology. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Media
Studies from Fort Valley State University and is set to graduate in May from Mercer
University with a Bachelor’s in Instructional Technology and Informatics.
With a passion for dance and education, Zaria serves as the dance coach for the Phases Dance
Troupe at Fort Valley State University and is an active choreographer and member of
the Spirit of David Dancers. She has been teaching at Hayiya Dance Theatre for four years,
refining her expertise in various dance genres, including jazz, tap, liturgical, and modern
dance.
As a professional dancer, Zaria continues to inspire and mentor aspiring performers through her
artistry and dedication to the craft. Her work seamlessly blends technical excellence with
creative expression, making her a respected figure in the dance community.
background in media and instructional technology. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Media
Studies from Fort Valley State University and is set to graduate in May from Mercer
University with a Bachelor’s in Instructional Technology and Informatics.
With a passion for dance and education, Zaria serves as the dance coach for the Phases Dance
Troupe at Fort Valley State University and is an active choreographer and member of
the Spirit of David Dancers. She has been teaching at Hayiya Dance Theatre for four years,
refining her expertise in various dance genres, including jazz, tap, liturgical, and modern
dance.
As a professional dancer, Zaria continues to inspire and mentor aspiring performers through her
artistry and dedication to the craft. Her work seamlessly blends technical excellence with
creative expression, making her a respected figure in the dance community.
Jazzmin Smith
Jazzmin is a Macon native and a passionate dance educator with a deep-rooted connection to the art form. As a former student of Hayiya Dance Theatre, Jazzmin has grown to be a well-rounded and diverse dancer, specializing in West African, Liturgical, Majorette, and Jazz genres. A proud graduate of Savannah State University, Jazzmin honed her craft on the Majestic Jewels Dance Line for three years while also serving as the captain during her final season.
Bringing a wealth of experience as a dancer and coach, Jazzmin now shares her expertise and love for dance with the next generation, inspiring students to express themselves through movement and rhythm. With a strong foundation in both performance and leadership, Jazzmin continues to leave an impact on the dance community, cultivating skill, discipline, and passion in all their students.
Bringing a wealth of experience as a dancer and coach, Jazzmin now shares her expertise and love for dance with the next generation, inspiring students to express themselves through movement and rhythm. With a strong foundation in both performance and leadership, Jazzmin continues to leave an impact on the dance community, cultivating skill, discipline, and passion in all their students.
Michelle Ray-Hill
Mrs. Michelle Ray-Hill is an experienced and passionate educator with over 25 years in the school system. She has dedicated her career to working with children and making a positive impact on their lives. Mrs. Ray-Hill holds a Master’s Degree in Education and is currently pursuing her Doctoral Degree, further enhancing her knowledge and expertise in the field.
In addition to her work in education, she serves as a Youth Pastor at Open Door Church, where she combines her love for teaching and guiding young people in both academic and spiritual growth. Mrs. Ray-Hill brings her deep compassion and understanding of children’s needs into her role as a Tutor Instructor, helping students reach their full potential.
Her dedication, experience, and nurturing spirit make her a trusted and inspiring educator for students and families alike.
In addition to her work in education, she serves as a Youth Pastor at Open Door Church, where she combines her love for teaching and guiding young people in both academic and spiritual growth. Mrs. Ray-Hill brings her deep compassion and understanding of children’s needs into her role as a Tutor Instructor, helping students reach their full potential.
Her dedication, experience, and nurturing spirit make her a trusted and inspiring educator for students and families alike.
Carmen Liana Young
Carmen began her yoga journey 6 years ago to relieve arthritis pain and stressors of life. She discovered Homegrown studio after googling-being attracted to the wholesome name. After work then taking her kids to their dance classes the only class left was a power class which she had never taken but afterwards left her buzzing so high she thought she’d float. Who knew the breath was just that powerful. Since that day in 2018 she’d been hooked ever since and has only been growing, learning and practicing ever since as a yogi. Today she has obtained her 200 hour yoga teacher training certificate with Homegrown studio and has taught classes at soulshine studio in her hometown of cordele ga. Carmen currently teaches beginner/intermediate yoga on tues evenings at Hayiya Dance Theater in Macon, Ga. Come on out if you want to enjoy a class where movement linked with breath, an eclectic music playlist and a teacher with a fun heart centered practice are combined in harmony.
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