REJOICE! Performing Arts Studio

Donna Doss-Spicer: Founder/CEO; AMTC National Dance Coach  

Born of a successful entrepreneur for a father and an innately talented musician for a mother, Donna has combined the best of both worlds to walk into her destiny.  Her dove's view to fulfill her calling has lead her to earn her Associates in General Education from Fayetteville Technical Community College, Bachelors in Small Business Management from Western Governor's University , and Certificate and Diploma in Biblical Studies from Carolina Bible College, and Masters in Biblical Studies.

Donna's father, the late William "Buddy" Allen, was a very successful entreprneur as realtor and bondsman. While he prided himself in being one of the first successful African American men to make it in Bridgeport Connecticut in the 1960's, he always had a heart to help the under-priveleged youth and unwed mothers in his community. As owner of more than a few homes, he blessed many with nice homes to live in at a low rate...and some he simply gifted away to those he felt were in need.  Donna's heart beats in unison with her dad when it comes to serving her community in a way that will make a difference in others' lives...especially the youth. The generational blessing of becoming a successful entrepreneur was an added bonus...

Her mother, the late Donna Mae Toms, was innately gifted in music, but never given a chance to train it fully. Donna Mae was a stay at home Mom of five children and an excellent manager of the home financially and maternally. She made sure that her children had the opportunities not offered to her as a young African American woman living in Connecticut in the 1960's.  When opportunities presented themselves, she made certain that her children were in a place to utilize it to the fullest. Thus, her youngest child, Donna Marie, was priveledged to attend one of the most prestigious school systems in the state...Coleytown Elementary and Junior High, and Staples High School located in Westport, Connecticut. This opened the door for Donna to train in the performing arts by Masters in their field. 

 Donna trained in the performing arts since 1974 through the public school system of Westport, Connecticut, Private Violin and Dance Lessons,  and local Dance Studios in Connecticut and North Carolina. As she excelled in her passion for the arts, she was invited and participated in the University of Bridgeport Orchestra in 1979-1981 as First Violin on their travels to London and Wales, Europe. She also participated as First Violin for All CIty and All State Orchestra throughout Junior High and High School. She has taught Beg - Adv.Violin for ten consective years

Living in Italy from 1986 - 1989, she was hired as Choreographer and Violinist for the local band, "The New Regime," which performed locally and surrounding cities. From 1998-2002 she was hired as Dance Choreographer and Second Violin with Northwood Temple for their Master Easter and Christmas Productions headed by Buck Hodges in Fayetteville, NC. From 1999-2001, she served under hire at New Hope Christian Academy  as Music Teacher  and for grades K - 12^th,  and as Biblical Studies Instructor serving 7 - 12^th grades. Her choreography with her private students has them to win first place in regional competition for best stage presence and technici, and others selected to compete at a national level.

Continually participating in  professional Christian Dance camps as a Dance Instructor throughout the year, Donna enhances technic and teaching skills as the world of the Performing Arts evolves. Her Instructors are strongly encouraged to do the same...and happily oblige.

As of August, 2008, Donna has been hired to work as National Dance Coach with Millie Lewis Actors, Model, and Talent Competitions (AMTC). Her duties include coaching ALL dancers in the numerous states she is sent to train, and choreograph for some of them that live closer to home.  Within her first year of working with AMTC, three REJOICE! students have won Finalist Overall Dancer (Brandi-Danielle Doss) , Grand Overall Petite Model (Gabrielle Franklin) , and Grand Oveall Commercial Child Actress (Ny'shira Lundy)...all directly under her guidance.  All three are now signed with nationally acclaimed agents such as Elite Chicago, IMG in NYC, Marilyn's International Model & Talent in NC, MTM  in NC, and others in LA. Contestants under her training for some and coaching for others have won Finalist for Overall Dancer, and three of her own out of state contestants tied for Grand Overall Dancer out of 750 - 850 contestants.  They, too, have signed with and are now working under #1 Agents in their field nation wide and working in local and national projects (independent films that go to film festivals, and natianal TV shows). She has also choreographed and dance for an independent film, "One Last Sunset," by producers Kevin Richmond and Maxann Crotts and is currently working on composing a piece to over lay through out the film. She was honored to also assist Mrs. Crotts at the filming in Granite Falls, NC.

Donna has also been subcontracted to work with Fayetteville Christian Church, My Father’s House Christian Church, Williams Chapel Free Will Baptist Church, Ft. Bragg for special Occasions, City of Fayetteville Kiwanis Recreation Centers, and others. She has served as a volunteer as Praise Dance Instructor, Coordinator, and Choreographer for Manna Church of Fayetteville from 2002-2004.

Because of Donna’s passion for Jesus Christ, her determination to FULFILL the call upon her life is paramount. Using the performing arts as nothing more than a tool, she wants nothing more than to pass the mantle onto the next generation for Christ. Thus, God Himself has given her the vision of REJOICE! Performing Arts Studio "Where the arts are used for God’s glory!"

 

 

Rich Spicer: Full Drum Set Instructor; Sits on Board of Directors.

As a native Marylander, Rich was surrounded by many elite musicians his whole life. His father, John Spicer, a superior Tuba and  Stand Up String Bass Player, and his brother, Dennis Spicer, an accomplished trumpeteer, Rich was introduced into true musicianship at a very early age. He is also the Founder/Director of Rich's Drum System, a business founded in 2009.

Under the watchful eye and coaching of his father, John Spicer, Rich excelled in drumming at a very fast pace. He began playing all styles of music with the youth band, "The Christian Rockets"at the ripe ol' age of eight.  He has had the pleasure of meeting and befriending professional drummer, Keith Thibideaux (played "Little Ricky" in the "I Love Lucy" show of the 1950's)  in 2007. Keith sang Rich's praises when he heard him play for fun. And Rich sang Keiths!

In addition to using his talents to bless the body of Christ at Four Square Church in Westminster, Maryland from 1993 - 2003, Rich also played with "Redeem the Day" from 2001 - 2003, cutting a CD in 2002. .  He was also the youngest musician (fifteen years old) to get paid playing with the well reknown band of old, "Shelley's Emeralds Band," from 1964 - 1976. From 1976 - 1978, he played with "Lite-N-Easy," and from 1978 - 1981 he played with the "Grand Junction Band." Each of these bands were known to travel throughout the Balitmore/Washington area.

Rich's anointing for one on one evangelism and drumming is evident. He has coupled the two together to impact the world for Christ. His love for Christ and deep desire to fulfill his calling on his life urges Rich on to continue to excel in his craft while passing the mantle onto the next generation...his students.

 

Kimberly Simpkins: Classical Violin Instructor; Sits on Board of Directors

Kimberly Simpkins, a native of Fayetteville, NC, began her studies on violin as a 5^th grade student in the Cumberland County School System, graduating from Westover High School. As a student, she was a member of the Fayetteville Symphony, Cumberland County Youth Orchestra, and All-State orchestras where she received top honors. She earned her Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance at the University of NC at Greensboro, graduating cum laude. During her time at UNC-G, Mrs. Simpkins participated in a study-tour of London, England with her violin professor, Trevor Williams of the Royal Academy of Music.  She also attended the prestigious Eastern Music Festival in Greensboro, NC, where she participated in a Master Class with renowned violin teacher Joseph Gingold. Upon graduation, Mrs. Simpkins combined her faith and talent by joining the Celebrant Singers, an interdenominational music and missions organization based in California. During her involvement with this organization, Mrs. Simpkins traveled to nearly 30 countries as well as throughout the United States. Her travels took her to places such as India, China, Lebanon, Egypt, Vietnam, Iceland, Kenya and Rwanda.

 

 

Lawrence Osborne-Quinnett: Classical Piano Instructor 

Born in Plymout, Montserrat, Lawrence Quinnett holds a BM in Music  from  Methodist University and a  MM, in Music  from Converse College.  Lawrence  began  playing the piano at the age of seven.  Formative teachers include Ann Clem, Jane Gardiner, Dr. Jon Maisonpierre, and Dr. Douglas Weeks.  He was the winner of the South Carolina Music Teacher's Association piano competition in 2008 and the Southeastern College Piano Competition in Greenville in 2006. While a student at Methodist University, he was the recipient of the Willis C. Gates award for excellence in performance two years in a row. 

Lynn Comotti Smith:  Ballet I - III, Lyrical, &  Tap Instructor; Sits on the Board of Directors.

Though originally from Connecticut, Lynn's professional training in the performing arts began New York at the  Gloria J. Rossetti School of Dance from 1964 - 1979 where she also took the Teacher

 

Certification Course. Lynn participated in Summer Intensives at Simsbury Music and Arts Center from 1971 - 1977. She continued her performing arts training under the instruction of guest artistis such as Doug Caldwell, Frank Hatchett, and Joe Tremaine.

Cerified in November, 2006, Lynn is skilled in the Lebed Method which focuses on healing through Movement of Dance.

To her credit, Lynn was the Choreographer for Simsbury Summer Theatre for youth and Simsbury Theater Guild from 1982 - 1986. Productions included  "Show Boat," "Music Man," "Anything Goes," "Carousel," and "Oklahoma." She was Founder and Owner of Terry and Lynn's School of Dance from 1980 - 1990. She was the main Dance Instructor for Broadway Dance Theater in New York from 2002 - 2005.  She was also Owner and one of several Dance Instructors for Encore School of Performing Arts in Sanford, NC from 2005 - 2007.

Lynn's obvious love for Jesus Christ is paramount and conta

 

gious. She is self-driven by her love for the Lord and the desire to serve Him through Dance Ministry with excellence.

Lynn is a very welcomed addition to REJOICE!

 

Latasha Deaver:  Drama & Litrugical Dance Instructor; Sits on the Board of Directors (On Haitus 2009 - 2010)

Native of Fayetteville, N.C., Latasha received her BFA in Professional Theater at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University.

Her credits as an actress include "The Wiz", "Paper Dolls", "Black Nativity", and "Children of Eden." As Director of "Black Nativity" and "The Secret", Latasha continued to excel in her craft. Latasha is

 

excited to be joining REJOICE! this fall!

Latasha’s love for the Lord is transparent when she dances. Continually giving praises to God and thankful that He has given her the strength and courage to walk into her destiny. He (God) calls one such as herself faithful, tried, and true. Worthy to be used of Him as He designates her venue of service unto Himself thru serving others.

She is increasingly thankful for her husband, Tarray, for continually speaking "life" into her.

Latasha is a welcomed addition to REJOICE!

 

 

Brandi-Danielle Doss: Pre-Ballet  Instructor for 3-7 yr. olds; Beg. Jazz Instructor for 5-7 year olds.

Brandi-Danielle has been under Dance Instruction since 1997. She has been consistent, focused, and determined to excel in her craft in order to become a professional Dance Instructor after college with a Major in Dance and concentration in Business. Her goal is to get a pedagogy in Dance from Ballet Magnificat! in Jackson, Mississippi when offered, or BFA in Dance from Belhaven University in Jackson, Mississippi. Both are Christian oriented and well established schools of the performing arts.

To her credit, Brandi began her role as Assistant to the Dance Instructor in 2004. She has pursued her love for dance by attending Christian Dance Conferences by Glory Dance Ministries when they were in Wilmington, NC, Zion Worship in Charlotte, NC,  Helen Creggar's Bibilical Theatre in Ridgecrest, NC, Master Classes with Master Ballet Instructor, Wayne Burritt of Boone, NC, and a month long Summer Intensive with Ballet Magnificat! She has also audtioned and made the talent show for Cape Fear Theater in Fayetteville, NC in 2001 and was accepted into the North Carolina Sate Ballet Company in September, 2007 where she danced "Waltz of The Flowers" and "Chinese."   Shie is still an active member of the NC State Ballet Company. She has also received a plaque for performing in Dance Revolution's "Faith Showcase" in Winston Salem, NC. Most recently, Danielle won as Finalist in the National Competition held by "Actors, Models, & Talent Competition" (AMTC) in Orlando, Florida in July, 2008. She was also selected to participate in the "Top 40" AMTC Talent Show out of 875 contestants. She has since signed with Advnatage Model & Talent Agency located in Nashville, TN and Avanti's Model & Talent Management in NC.  

God has revealed to Brandi at the ripe ol' age of seven that she is to serve Him through the performing arts. Allowing the Holy Spirit to use her as a vessel to draw many unto Himself. Brandi has not strayed from that goal since her calling.

 

 

 

Brianna Nicole Doss: Assistant for Pre-Ballet, Beg. Tap, and Runway Modeling

Brianna began training in Dance in 1999.  Her love and ease in learning Tap was evident from her first class. Brianna's natural stage presen

 

ce and joy of Tap makes her a joy to watch deliver a message thru this art.

To her credit, Brianna began her role as Assistant to the Dance Instructor for Pre-Ballet 3-4 year olds in 2005. Her attention to detail for the individual makes her quite an asset to the Instructor to teach the class with minumum interruptions. She has participated and earned certificates at Zion Worship in Charlotte, NC, Glory Dance Ministries when they were located in Wilmington, NC, and Helen Creggar's Biblical Theatre in Boone, NC.  She has received a plaque for performing in Dance Revolution's "Hall of Faith" Showcase in Winston Salem, NC in January, 2008. Most recently, Brianna has auditioned and been selected to "compete without compromise" in the Actors, Models, and Talent Competition (AMTC) in Orlando, Florida in July, 2008.  She is currently an active member of the NC State Ballet Company and is signed with Advantage Model and Talent in Nashville, TN, Avanti's Model & Talent Management in Cary, NC, and Marilyns Model & Talent Agency in Greensboro, NC.  

Brianna is a true joy to have in class as a student as well as an

 

assistant!

Kendall Yerby: Assistant to Pre-Ballet Instructor, Brandi-Danielle Doss (for 3-4 year olds)

Kendall began training in Dance in 2002. Her love for the Lord is transparent in action and deed. Kendall has a call on her life by God to use the performing arts as a tool for worship.

Kendall's commitment to be trained to the fullest for His glory in every facet is refreshing and contagious. Her love for Jesus shines when she dances before Him and for Him!

Kendall is excited to be assisting this year, and RMPA is very glad to have her!

 

 

 

Rebecca Goin: Photographer

Cynthia Phillips:  Administrat

 

or by Satellite. 

Cynthia Phillips is a very dedicated woman.  She is a military wife, homeschooling mom, and political writer.

Cynthia has earned her degree in Business Administration.  

Cynthia does everything as  "unto the Lord," which makes her a valued asset to RMPA! She is known for paying attention to detail which causes her to excel in every position she has held outside of (but not limited to) her home.

Cynthia was a former Rejoice! Dancer in its' embryonic stages. She is now glad to be part of REJOICE! once again as Satellite Administrator...and RMPA is elated to have her back!