OUR ALUMNI TESTIMONIALS

Briana Thibault

“I graduated from Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts in 2012, and my time there was truly some of the best years of my dance career. Looking back, one of the greatest gifts WFAFA gave me was the confidence to pursue my passion for dance while continually growing and developing as both a dancer and a person. Through my training, I learned leadership, patience, self-worth, resilience, and understanding—lessons that have stayed with me and continue to shape who I am today.

Some of my favorite memories at WFAFA were simply performing. It didn’t matter whether it was at recital, on the competition stage, or in a convention classroom—I loved every opportunity to perform, and WFAFA instilled that passion in me. I was also incredibly fortunate to train under Aimee, Alicia, and Stephie. They taught me not only the technical foundations of dance but also what it means to be a respectful, dedicated dancer and, eventually, an instructor. Their influence continues to inspire the way I teach today.

WFAFA also prepared me for life after graduation by showing me the dedication, hard work, and perseverance it takes to pursue dance professionally, while also opening my eyes to the many different paths available within the dance world. The discipline, confidence, work ethic, leadership, teamwork, and perseverance I developed in the studio have been invaluable throughout my career and personal life.

Today, I am the Co-Director of Snowcreek Dance Academy, a recreational dance program, and Mammoth Lakes Dance Co., a competition team, in the beautiful mountain town of Mammoth Lakes, California. Since 2018, with the support of an incredible team of instructors, we’ve grown our recreational program from just 45 dancers to over 175, and our competition team has grown into a thriving program with 20 incredibly talented dancers. Looking back, I can honestly say that my experience at WFAFA played an instrumental role in helping me become the dancer, teacher, leader, and person I am today!

I would wholeheartedly recommend WFAFA to any dancer or family. It is so much more than a dance studio—it’s a place where young people grow not only in their technique, but also in confidence, character, discipline, and lifelong friendships. I will always be grateful to have been part of the WFAFA family.”