What is Dancing For the Stars
and our mission?
Dancing For the Stars is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of
community, creativity, and the power of the arts. By stepping onto the dance
floor, local adults from the Jackson area are using their passion and
dedication to make a difference in the lives of young artists. The funds raised
from this event will go directly toward scholarships, mentorship programs, and
arts education initiatives that inspire and support the next generation of
performers. Whether you're dancing, cheering from the audience, or
sponsoring a contestant, your involvement plays a vital role in keeping the
arts alive and thriving. Join us as we twirl, step, and spin toward a brighter
future for arts education—one dance at a time
Why does this event matter?
Dancing For the Stars is an exciting dance competition that brings together
local adults from the Jackson area to showcase their talent, all while raising
funds for the Amiable Arts Foundation. This event isn’t just about dancing—it’s
about coming together as a community to support arts education and provide
young artists with the resources they need to thrive. Participants, ranging from
business leaders to educators and community influencers, will take the stage
in a thrilling competition to raise awareness and funding for arts programs that
benefit students in dance, theatre, music, and the performing arts.
How to get involved?
- Register to Dance: Calling all young performers! Sign up to
compete: amia@amiaedwards.com - Attend & Support: Cheer on our talented students and support
arts education. - Donate: Help fund arts scholarships and resources for young
creatives. Visit amiableartsfoundation.org for more details. - Become a Sponsor: Partner with us to make a lasting impact on
youth in the arts.
Amiable Arts Foundation Gears Up for
Dancing For The Stars Fundraiser
The Amiable Arts Foundation is eagerly preparing for its highly anticipated
Dancing For The Stars fundraiser, an event that brings together local
celebrities and community leaders for a dazzling night of dance and
philanthropy. To ensure a spectacular performance, participants are
dedicating themselves to rigorous dance lessons, perfecting their steps with
the help of professional instructors. With each practice session, excitement
builds for the big night, where talent and generosity will shine on the dance
floor—all in support of the foundation’s mission to promote the arts.
Fabian Nelson
Fabian Nelson serves as a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives for the 66th District, affiliating with the Democratic Party, a position he has held since 2024. Fabian is the first openly LGBTQ lawmaker in Mississippi.
Justin & Elisha Roberts-Turner
Dr. Justin Turner is a physician and medical director for the Mississippi State Department of Health, running a clinic in Jackson and serving as a board member for the Amiable Arts Foundation. Married to founder of 31:25, Elisha Roberts-Turner, he is dedicated to improving Mississippi’s health and is passionate about community engagement and advancing public well-being.
Mississippi Capital Police Cheif, Bo Luckey
Bo Luckey has served as the Chief of the Mississippi Capitol Police since May 2022, previously working as a senior criminal investigator in the Mississippi Attorney General's Office. Under his leadership, the Capitol Police expanded operations in Jackson and opened a new headquarters in 2024 to enhance public safety.
Amia Edwards, CEO/Director
of Amiable Arts Foundation
Amia Edwards is the CEO and Director of the Amiable Arts Foundation, where she combines her passion for the arts with a commitment to empowering the next generation. As an actress with years of experience on stage and screen, Amia brings a unique perspective to arts education, fostering creativity and confidence in every student. Under her leadership, the foundation provides comprehensive programs in theatre, film, music, and dance, giving young people the tools to express themselves and pursue their artistic dreams. Amia’s dedication to the arts and her community continues to inspire and uplift future performers and creatives.
Celebrity Guest Judge, Comedian, Rita Brent
Rita Brent is an award-winning comedian, musician, and military veteran from Jackson, MS, who began her career in music before serving as a drummer in the Army National Guard and later transitioning into radio broadcasting and standup comedy. She has since written for major award shows, performed on networks like Comedy Central and CNN, and toured with comedy legends Rickey Smiley and Cedric the Entertainer.
Dancing Coach - Tiffany Jefferson
Tiffany Jefferson is the Director of the Dance Department at Hinds
Community College and the founder of the Montage Theatre of Dance. She
previously taught at Bethel College and the Newton Performing Arts Center in
Kansas. A graduate of Oklahoma State University, she was crowned Miss
Black Oklahoma in 1996 and was an All-American collegiate cheerleader.
She has trained with prestigious institutions like the Alvin Ailey American
Dance Theatre and Memphis Ballet, working with renowned artists such as
Judith Jamison and Dave Scott. Throughout her career, she has won
numerous choreography awards and contributed to organizations like the
Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet and the Music Theatre of Wichita.
MEET THE CAST
SEASON ONE
Dancing Coach, Sarah Thames
Sarah Thames is a dancer, actress, choreographer, model, and director.
She has studied at institutions like Bridgwater College, Broadway Dance
Center, Alvin Ailey, and Still and Moving Center. Sarah has performed at
prestigious venues including Lincoln Center, the Grand Ole Opry, and
Carnegie Hall, and in music videos and films such as Pitch Perfect 2 and
Dark Horse Agency. She choreographed for various theater companies and
schools, including Montage Theatre of Dance and Hinds Community
College. Sarah is a technician for Brookhaven High School Colorguard and a
Rehearsal Director for Montage Theatre of Dance.
We welcome all sponsors to Dancing Season 1. Each sponsorship
level is complemented by VIP tickets to our show and marketing
packages to share your commitment to our cause.
If you have any questions regarding sponsorship, please
contact us at (601) 941-8039 or contact our executive at
amia@amiaedwards.com
Want to become a sponser for
Dancing For the Stars?
Our Generous Sponsors