Jackson, Mississippi, is known for its vibrant culture and talented individuals, and among them shines Faith Simone Thigpen. For fans of the hit TV series “Bring It!”, showcasing the electrifying dance team, the Dancing Dolls, Faith’s face is instantly recognizable. She captivated audiences for seasons two through five alongside her mother, Dana Roilton, becoming a beloved figure for her passion and dedication to dance. But Faith’s story extends far beyond the television screen, revealing a lifelong commitment to her art and an unwavering ambition to inspire future generations through dance.
Faith Simone Thigpen, former Dancing Doll from 'Bring It!', poses for a photo showcasing her dance aspirations and Jackson roots.
From Toddler Moves to Dancing Doll Fame
Faith’s journey into dance began at the tender age of three, sparked by an early fascination with the iconic performer, Beyoncé. As Faith recalls, “My mom told me she turned on Destiny’s Child to calm me down whenever I would get moody or hyper. It always calmed me down.” This childhood soothing mechanism evolved into a deep admiration, with Beyoncé becoming Faith’s ultimate role model, influencing her aspirations in the entertainment industry. Even as a toddler, Faith was absorbing choreography from music videos, demonstrating a natural aptitude for movement and rhythm.
Her formal dance education commenced at Emmanuel Christian Academy at age three, followed by Word of Faith Academy at age five, where she embraced cheerleading and praise dance. Simultaneously, her exploration of dance broadened at Adhiambo African School, also in Jackson, where she studied lyrical and African dance forms, showcasing her versatility and eagerness to learn diverse styles. Continuing her artistic development, Faith entered the Power Academic and Performing Arts Complex program in fifth grade within Jackson Public Schools, immersing herself in the disciplines of ballet, jazz, and modern dance, building a solid foundation in classical techniques.
The pivotal moment arrived in ninth grade at Murrah High School when Faith successfully auditioned for the renowned Dancing Dolls. This achievement catapulted her into the spotlight when, just months later, she was selected by producers of “Bring It!” to feature on the show. From 2016 to 2018, Faith became a prominent member of the Dancing Dolls on national television, experiencing the intensity of competitive dance and the pressures of reality TV.
Beyond “Bring It!”: Pursuing Professional Dance and Broadway Dreams
The “Bring It!” experience opened doors to further opportunities, including joining the “Bring It!” tour company in the summer of 2016. This tour allowed Faith to perform across major US cities like Philadelphia, Memphis, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, exposing her to diverse audiences and solidifying her passion for performing on a larger stage.
Upon graduating high school in 2018, Faith set her sights on professional training at the prestigious American Music Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in New York City. After completing two years in the New York campus, she transitioned to AMDA’s Los Angeles location to finalize her Bachelor’s degree in Dance. Her academic pursuits are strategically aligned with her long-term ambition: to grace the Broadway stages of New York City. This dream reflects not only her personal aspirations but also her dedication to reaching the pinnacle of dance performance.
Returning to Her Roots: Inspiring Future Dancers in Jackson
While Broadway remains a primary goal, Faith’s vision extends back to her hometown. She harbors a strong desire to establish her own performing arts school and dance studios in Jackson. This ambition stems from a deep appreciation for the support she received in her formative years and a commitment to nurturing talent within her community. Her plan is to first establish a local presence in Jackson and then expand her dance studio network across the country, creating opportunities for aspiring dancers nationwide.
Despite her demanding schedule that keeps her primarily in Los Angeles and New York, Faith cherishes her visits home during the holidays. “It’s always heart-warming when I come home,” she expresses. She acknowledges the unwavering support from her family and hometown, stating, “I want to thank my hometown, especially my family. The amount of support I receive from everybody is an understatement… (and) my parents have always given me everything I’ve wanted and needed.”
Looking ahead, Faith envisions a legacy as not only a celebrated dancer but also an inspirational figure. “I owe it to Jackson, because I’ve gotten so much love and support,” she concludes. “I know I would not be where I am today without it.” To stay updated on Faith’s journey, follow her on Instagram or visit allthingsfaith.com, and witness the continued rise of this Dancing Doll with unwavering faith in her dreams.
