Young Artists Academy Ensemble

The Young Artists Academy Ensemble, is the pre-professional dance company of Norma’s Academy of Dance that falls under the Norma Bell Mitchel Legacy. The ensemble provides advanced dancers with expanded training, performance opportunities, and leadership experiences while preparing them for collegiate dance programs and professional pathways in the arts.

Company members participate in three annual concerts each season: a holiday production in December, a Company Show in the spring, and the Spring Concert in June. Dancers also attend multiple competitions and conventions each year and continue their development through in-studio workshops and an annual summer intensive featuring Atlanta-based artists and respected guest teachers from around the country.

Community engagement is a central part of the ensemble’s work. The company regularly performs at community events throughout Fairburn and Fayetteville, Georgia, including holiday tree lightings or parades, fall festivals, and Black History Month celebrations. They have also performed at events such as the Festival of Trees, DanceFest / Jazz on Tap, Dance Athens, and other regional dance showcases.

The Young Artists Academy Ensemble also plays an important role in the Norma Bell Mitchell Legacy’s outreach initiatives. Ensemble dancers will serve as key performers and leaders in Hope for Christmas, supporting school performances, community engagement activities, and service initiatives connected to the production. As the program continues to grow, we look forward to expanding outreach opportunities that allow these dancers to share their artistry with the broader community.

Young Artists Academy (YAA) Scholarships

The Young Artists Academy Scholarship Program supports dedicated dancers pursuing advanced training at Norma’s Academy of Dance. These scholarships help remove financial barriers so students can fully participate in rigorous dance education, performance opportunities, and intensive training experiences.

Beyond technical training, the Young Artists Academy provides mentorship and professional exposure that prepares students for the next stage of their artistic journey. Students participate in talkbacks and Q&A sessions with professional dance artists during the summer intensive, team-building activities, summer intensive training, and college audition preparation.

The program also focuses on developing students beyond dance through mentorship programming that includes professional development, etiquette, life coaching, self-care, money management, nutrition and health, and social relationships, along with additional outreach initiatives that support their personal growth and leadership.

Cultivate Teaching Assistant Program

The Cultivate Teaching Assistant Program prepares students to become the next generation of dance educators. Participants receive training in both the artistry of dance instruction and the practical skills needed to lead a classroom.

Through teacher training seminars, retreats, and team-building experiences, students develop leadership, communication, and instructional skills.
Teaching assistants gain hands-on classroom experience at Norma’s Academy of Dance, supporting instructors and contributing to the learning environment. They also assist with and lead events for our NAOD community, building confidence, responsibility, and real-world leadership experience.

Hope for Christmas

Hope for Christmas is the flagship artistic initiative of the Norma Bell Mitchell Legacy. Premiering in December 2026, the holiday production will feature Enrichment and Young Artists Academy students of Norma’s Academy of Dance performing a variety of dance styles. The project extends beyond the stage through school performances paired with in-school dance workshops, outreach performances, and classes at a women’s and children’s homeless shelter, and community toy and coat donations collected during performances.

Support the Mission of the NBM Legacy

Would you like to support the mission of the NBM Legacy? Your generosity can make a significant difference in advancing our cause and helping us achieve our goals. By making a tax-deductible donation, you directly contribute to the impactful work we do within the community and beyond.

Thank You for Your Support

Your support is vital to our success and deeply appreciated. Together, we can make a lasting impact and continue to create positive change. Thank you for considering a donation to the NBM Legacy.