Jen Burns

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About Jen

Jen brings a unique blend of leadership, creativity, and heart to her roles as Musical Theatre Program and Dance Operations Manager at ROOTS Academy. Since joining the ROOTS admin team in 2017, she has been passionate about helping students and families find connection, confidence, and joy through both dance and musical theatre.
 
As both a former classroom teacher and a mom of six performers, Jen understands the dedication it takes to help children grow in their craft while also supporting families through every stage of that journey. She is deeply committed to creating a welcoming environment where students feel seen, encouraged, and inspired to discover their gifts.
 
Collaboration, connection, and creativity remain at the center of everything Jen does. Her years in education gave her a deep appreciation for mentorship, classroom management, and investing in students individually.
 
Jen especially enjoys developing creative experiences that bring students together through performance and storytelling. From creating camp curriculum and interactive activities to helping produce memorable performances, she thrives when music, dance, acting, costumes, and creativity all come together. The Musical Theatre program at ROOTS combines so many of the things she loves most.
 
Having moved frequently throughout her life, Jen understands what it feels like to be new and searching for community. She strives to make ROOTS a place where students and their families feel welcomed, connected, and supported from the moment they walk through the doors.
 
When she’s not at ROOTS, Jen is likely spending time with her family or treasure hunting her next prop or costume piece.

Color: Denim Blue
Salty Treat: Dark Chocolate & Sea Salt
Sweet Treat: Jeni’s Ice Cream
Fast Food Restaurant: CoreLife
Sit Down Restaurant: Stoney River
Coffee Drink: Starbucks
Movie: Sound of Music
Place to Shop: Amazon
Scent: Warm Musk or Woodsy
Clothing Brand: Amazon
Animal: Bunny
Band: The Avett Brothers
Travel Destination: London

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
JEN BURNS – Musical Theatre & Dance Systems Manager
KATHLEEN MCPHERSON – Dance Program Development Manager
MEG DEARMIN – Dance/FIT Operations Coordinator
HANNAH SEE – Competition Coordinator