Bella Shilliday

About Bella

Isabel trained in various styles of dance, including Ballet (Cecchetti, Vaganova, Classical, RAD and ABT); Contemporary; Jazz and Acrobatics as well as Rhythmic Gymnastics. Her training started at a young age in South Africa, where she grew up. Isabel trained at Cassandra Lambert School of Ballet as well as Attitudes Ballet where she completed her Cecchetti Examinations with honors. She received Her Acrobatic and Contemporary training at Life Performing Arts Connect – a performing arts school her family started in Somerset West, South Africa. Isabel moved to Michigan prior to high school, where she was part of a competitive dance team at Mary Skiba’s School of Dance. During this same time she participated in her High School Competitive and Sideline Cheer Team at Chippewa Valley High School. Isabel continued her Ballet Training at Christian Arts Academy, where she also started her teaching career, teaching Ballet and Jazz. She choreographed several pieces for Studio recital and community outreach programs. Isabel also joined The Macomb Ballet Company in Macomb, Michigan where she had the opportunity to perform in live stage productions including The Nutcracker and The Wizard of OZ. She received an invitation from The Link School of the Arts and The Ark Initiave to perform in several performances under the direction of Lauren Anderson from Houston Ballet. One of the most meaningful experiences of her training, was spent with Ballet Magnificat in Jackson, Mississippi.

After moving to Nashville, She spent her last year of High school dancing at Nashville Ballet Academy where she had the privilege of performing in the classical version of The Nutcracker. Her love for dance connected her with Unveiled Dance Productions where she had the opportunity to be part of a dance film and could explore her love of dance in a different medium.

When Isabel is not in studio, she can be found helping students find the best fit for their dance needs and pointe shoes at Bellissimo Dance Boutique. She loves teaching and loves to see them grow in their love for dance too. She spends her time off loving on her beloved pitbull, Blu and dresses her in little puppy dancewear too!

Favorite Color: Purple
Favorite Drink: Matcha
Favorite Sweet Treat: Cookies
Favorite Place to Shop: Amazon/Home Goods
Favorite TV Show:Brooklyn 99
Favorite Animal: Dog/Elephant
Favorite Travel Destination: South Africa

Take a class with Bella

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.

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
MELISSA BULLINGTON – Preschool Manager
JEN BURNS – Dance Operations Manager
KATHLEEN MCPHERSON – Dance Operations Coordinator
MEG DEARMIN – Dance/FIT Operations Coordinator

SASKIA HARMON
Dance Director

JESSICA STILLMAN
Competition Manager

MELISSA BULLINGTON
Preschool Manager

JEN BURNS
Dance Operations Manager

KATHLEEN MCPHERSON
Dance Operations Coordinator