Today we’d like to introduce you to JuanTierra Thomas-Hamilton.
Hi JuanTierra, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Of course! My love for dance began at just 4 years old doing ballet at Beautiful Feet Dance Center (a Christian-based dance company) and up until high school on the band dance team as a Bella Donna at Northeast HS (2007-2009), but the dream of owning my own studio took shape while I was in college at Georgia College & State University; as well as taking ballet and other dance electives. I realized I didn’t just want to dance — I wanted to create a space where others could grow, perform, and find purpose through the art of movement.
In 2014, I started with a small team of five girls, teaching majorette and technique at local parks and community spaces. By 2017, we moved into an old building that had no lights or water — we’d literally dance in an open space while parents used their car headlights once it got dark. Those humble beginnings taught me what faith, passion, and commitment can truly build.
Fast forward to today, that same old building has been completely transformed into the home of Royal Elan Performing Arts Center — a fully functional, beautifully branded studio in Macon, GA. Over the years, we’ve performed at local fairs, holiday events, family reunions, vendor conferences, and hosted seven annual Dancical productions at the historic Douglass Theatre. We’re now proudly known as The Home of the Dancical — a one-of-a-kind show that brings popular movies to life through storytelling and dance with our own twist.
Now, we’re entering an exciting new chapter with a stronger faith-based foundation and expanded programming that helps young dancers and young adults prepare for real opportunities — from gigs to full dance careers. 2026 will mark our first year competing regionally and nationally, and I couldn’t be prouder of how far we’ve come. Funny how things come full circle.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not a smooth road — but every bump built the foundation for who I am today and what Royal Elan PAC represents. Starting a dance studio from scratch with little funding, no building, and no clear roadmap was tough. There were times like I stated before where we did not have a physical building to practice in. We made it work with prayer, determination, and the support of a few parents who believed in the vision.
There were also times when I wanted to completely give it all up. The weight of running a business, balancing motherhood, and keeping the dream alive felt overwhelming at times. But my love for dance — and seeing what it does for the kids who walk through our doors — just wouldn’t let me quit. Whether I have 5 students, 20 students, or just a few, I treat Royal Elan PAC with the same passion and purpose I had on day one. With the help of my own parents (Mr. & Mrs. Thomas), close-family and friends the evolution of REPAC would not have made it this far.
Through faith and perseverance, every challenge has become a stepping stone. Those experiences taught me resilience, leadership, and how to trust God’s process even when the vision seemed bigger than the resources. Looking back, I’m grateful for every obstacle because it shaped Royal Elan into more than just a dance studio — it’s a living testimony of what’s possible when you refuse to give up on the dream God placed in your heart.
I want to leave this here for future or current business owners never let the amount of years, lack of enrollment or participation or company size deter you from reaching your goals even after 10 years I am not where I want to be but with God and perseverance I will keep going until that narrative changes and it starts with you read, pray and keep going. Do it scared but do it smart!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My work is driven by passion, purpose, and a genuine love for developing dancers from the inside out. Teaching proper technique is something I’ve always loved to make sure I pass on—it’s the foundation of every class I teach. My goal is to create an atmosphere where every student feels seen, valued, and supported.
Growing up in ballet classes, I was often one of the only Black dancers in the room. That experience shaped my perspective and inspired me to create the kind of space I wish I had—one where every child, teen, or adult, no matter their background, race, age, body type, or level of experience, feels they belong. At Royal Elan Performing Arts Center, we welcome everyone—because dance is a universal language that connects us all.
I specialize in ballet, jazz, contemporary, majorette, and praise/liturgical dance—styles that not only build technical skill but allow dancers to explore creativity and culture. Ballet may not always be the most popular style among today’s youth, but I believe it’s the backbone of strong, versatile dancers. It teaches structure, grace, confidence, and poise—the kind of discipline that builds both artistry and character.
Over the years, my work has grown beyond teaching into directing, storytelling, and producing performances that bring our community together. Every class is built around growth, not perfection—and that care creates confidence, discipline, and joy.
The heart of what we do extends beyond technique. Our mission is to develop character through Christ and dance, creating a foundation that reaches far beyond the studio. Every dancer, whether experienced or brand new, is given the opportunity to step on stage, learn how to perform, and discover their confidence. After that, everything else—growth, strength, skill, and artistry—begins to follow and blossom.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me are my dancers — not just the way they move, but who they’re becoming through the process. My goal is to give them a sound dance foundation and personal growth that goes far beyond the studio. I want every student who comes through Royal Elan PAC to develop discipline, confidence, and character — qualities that will serve them both on and off the stage. “Faith-Family-Future! and of course fun!” Dance has done that for me (I still manage to still dance and perform). It shaped me into the woman I am today — teaching me structure, creativity, and perseverance. That’s why I’m so passionate about pouring those same lessons back into my students. And since God started out with me in my own dance life/career it is only right that I end it with Him too!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.royalelanpac.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/royal_elan_pac?igsh=b2tmMzdqMG56dm43&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1LaR6Lf6Fx/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@royalelanpac?si=p_u0144Jnwmm0VRp
Image Credits
Snapped by Siete Jeremy Coleman Photography Moye Photography
