Jackson, Mississippi – For fans of the hit TV series “Bring It!”, the name Faith Simone Thigpen resonates with talent and dedication. This former star of the Dancing Dolls, a renowned Jackson dance group, is now forging her path to Broadway while holding onto the faith instilled in her hometown and her dance journey.
Faith Simone Thigpen, now 18, captured hearts on “Bring It!” from seasons two through five (2016-2018), alongside her mother, Dana Roilton. However, her story began long before the television cameras. Dance has been an integral part of Faith’s life since the age of three, ignited by an early inspiration: Beyoncé.
“My mom told me she turned on Destiny’s Child to calm me down whenever I would get moody or hyper,” Thigpen recalls. “It always calmed me down… I’ve admired Beyoncé throughout my entire life. She’s been my role model. I love everything she’s done for the industry.” Mesmerized by Beyoncé’s performances, young Faith started mimicking choreography from music videos, revealing a natural aptitude for dance.
Faith Simone Thigpen's journey from Jackson Dancing Dolls to aspiring Broadway star, showcasing her dedication and talent.
Formal dance training began at Emmanuel Christian Academy at age three. By five, Faith expanded her dance horizons at Word of Faith Academy, participating in cheerleading and praise dance teams throughout her elementary and middle school years. Simultaneously, she explored diverse dance forms at Adhiambo African School, delving into lyrical and African dance styles. Her passion and commitment led her to the Power Academic and Performing Arts Complex program in fifth grade within Jackson Public Schools, where she honed her skills in ballet, jazz, and modern dance.
The pivotal moment arrived in 2015 during her ninth-grade year at Murrah High School when Faith successfully auditioned for the Dancing Dolls. Shortly after, her journey took an exciting turn as she was selected to feature on “Bring It!”, catapulting her into the national spotlight. This exposure led to touring with the “Bring It!” company in the summer of 2016, performing in major cities across the United States, including Philadelphia, Memphis, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, and Atlanta.
After graduating high school in 2018, fueled by her unwavering faith in her dreams, Thigpen pursued higher education at the prestigious American Music Dramatic Academy in New York City. Having completed two years in the vibrant city, she is now set to continue her final two years at the academy’s Los Angeles campus to earn her bachelor’s degree in dance. Her aspirations extend beyond academia; Faith envisions a future performing on Broadway in New York City. Furthermore, demonstrating an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to give back to her roots, she plans to establish her own performing arts school and, importantly, open dance studios in Jackson, with the long-term goal of expanding nationwide.
Despite her demanding schedule and coast-to-coast moves, Faith cherishes her visits home to Jackson during the holidays. “It’s always heart-warming when I come home,” she expresses. “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.” This deep appreciation for her community fuels her ambition to contribute to Jackson’s artistic landscape.
Looking ahead, Faith Simone Thigpen aims to leave a lasting legacy, not just as a dancer but as an inspiration. “I owe it to Jackson, because I’ve gotten so much love and support,” she acknowledges. “I know I would not be where I am today without it.” Her journey embodies the powerful blend of talent, hard work, and the unwavering faith nurtured from her early days as a Dancing Doll, propelling her towards a bright future in the world of dance and performance.
To follow Faith’s inspiring journey, find her on Instagram or visit allthingsfaith.com.
