Today we’d like to introduce you to Mya Jade Murray.
Mya Jade, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started off as a recreational dancer at the age of four years old. Throughout the years, I was able to perform competitively, winning multiple solo awards and group awards. In high school, I got the opportunity to audition for the F.A.M.E program (Fine Arts Magnet Program) for dance. I was accepted! Going into college, I auditioned for a school named The American Musical and Dramatic Academy and was accepted to join their Studio Acting program. From there, I realized that my passion for the arts was no longer just a passion but a way to make income. Returning to Atlanta, I joined a company called ATLA with the teaching and disciplines from Sakinah LeStage and Kiki Ely. In a matter of a few months, I was able to get my feel for dancing professionally. I was able to meet wonderful choreographers and like-minded dancers and artists who did what I used to think was only a dream. Somewhere in my mind, I knew that I was called for more.
My inspiration for going forward with the arts and building a business started during COVID. During this time, I created a business that was targeted for people with mental health disorders or those who suffer from abuse and or anxiety. I wanted to give people chances to express how they felt through means of interaction and Fine Arts. A transition was made and my focus became solely on building the dream so thanks to my father Anthony Murray, I have been blessed to be able to use Oasis (Atlanta Studio Church) as my studio. There have been donations made, as well as people who have joined my classes and privates. Those classes range from 2 hours to 8 hours depending on what type of training you are looking for.
Today, I am blessed to call myself an entrepreneur and someone who won’t give up on their calling from God. The gifts God has given me and the consistency over the years have allowed me to put food on my table as well as educate others in a field that I enjoy. If you or anyone you know are interested in taking one of my classes, feel free to reach out via email, call or DM. Thank you!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
NO. It has not been a smooth road. I have had times where no one at all was interested in taking a class from me. I have had times where I personally auditioned for gigs and was told no. I have had times where I have had to work multiple jobs to support myself. Of course, I would wish for the road to be smooth, but I don’t think I would have gotten this tough skin if it was. However, the road has been full of support from family and friends which makes the day by day feel so much better. I’m nothing but thankful for the people in my life who saw my vision and prayed and invested into me and it.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Well, within my business, I have a class on Saturdays called HipHop and Heels with Jade. In this class, I use my knowledge from my dance career/training to teach fun combinations with my twist on hiphop and heels choreography.
I am most proud of the dancers who have trusted me to teach them the combinations for multiple weeks and them actually performing them in front of other dancers including myself!
My confidence sets me aside from others. I know I am not the most technically trained dancer or the dancer with the most gigs on their resume but I have a real understanding for what people who are new to dance or the arts are looking for.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I want to give credit to:
My family for believing in me, investing into me, and supporting each decision I have made.
Everyone I have trained for trusting me to give the proper knowledge to advance your career.
My investors for donating towards my vision.
Specifically, I want to say thank you to Christina Torres, Anthony Murray, Jaseña Murray, Roderick Murray, Ilka Murray, Pauline Murray, Rogers Murray, Carlos Torres, Lily Pujadas, Sarah Pujadas, Michele Blue, Ms.Miranda, Denne Ward, Destiny Gilmere, Daisha Phelps, Teneshia Murray, Deme, AD West Dance Company, Just Dance Studio, AMDA, ATLA, Kyra, Dalicia, Ahkei, Zach, Meeka, Jabinia Davender, Quinton, Deborah Benjamin, Monte, and more. All of you have encouraged me, invested into me and or my business and loved me for who I am! THANK YOU.
Pricing:
- Hip Hop and Heels with Jade is $10 per class
- Self Development, Scene Analysis & Character Breakdown for Acting is $1,000 for a week.
- Dance Private (Full Day) is $150
- Acting Class (Full Day) is $200
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @themyajade
Image Credits
Laura Mercer Dewayne Rogers David Wright Des Designs
