Hi there! My name is Faith West, I am the founder, creator and teacher of Praise Him Dance Academy.

Click here to view my teaching statement!

I have studied over 7 years of dance including ballet, tap, jazz, character, tap, contemporary, pointe and Christian dance. I have an Associates degree in Liberal Arts and danced at Sweet Briar College from 2022-2023. I’ve also had several years experience in theatre productions where I performed in plays like Romeo and Juliet, Little Women, Peter Pan, several other classics and church plays.

I started PHDA because I saw a need in my community. I saw girls leaving dance behind as they became older due to several reasons including vulgar music, immodest costumes and dance choreography that was not pleasing to God or age appropriate. I was asked by a few people in my community if I would start a group that girls could come and use dance for worship.

The group quickly grew and I knew I would need to start a studio. I named it Praise Him Dance Academy because I believe dance can be used as a form of worship to glorify God. Dance is so much more than a way to move, it’s an outlet to express yourself, a way to find community, and build your self confidence.

In classes students are taught technique specific to their class and age. Classes use Christian and instrumental music as well as age appropriate holiday and pop music. Every costume and choreography is chosen carefully to be sure everything is modest and age appropriate.

Faith West

FOUNDER
Hi, I’m Faith! I started Praise Him Dance Academy with a simple dream: to create a safe, Christ-centered space where kids can grow in confidence, build friendships, and worship the Lord through dance.
Dance has always been more than steps to me it’s a way to glorify God and point hearts back to Him. One of me favorite verse is “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps” (Proverbs 16:9), and it reminds me daily that He is guiding our dancers, families, and studio.
At PHDA, we’re more than a dance studio—we’re a family. And I can’t wait to welcome yours into ours!
Virginia Nichols

CUSTOMER CARE TEAM & ENROLLMENT COORDINATOR
Anna Heckman

DIGITAL PRESCENCE COORDINATOR
I began dancing as an adult and quickly fell in love with it—not only as a way to move, but also as a way to connect with others. Being part of the studio has given me the chance to grow in confidence and creativity, both on and off the dance floor.
Outside of class, I manage the studio’s social media and marketing. With a background in content creation and a passion for dance, I love using my skills to share the joy of dance and help more families discover our studio. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling any chance I get.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Colossians 3:23 - “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”
Amanda Beverly

DANCE INSTRUCTORS
Hi! I am Mrs. Amanda. I currently live in Moneta with my amazing husband and beautiful daughter. I also have a son who is currently living out his childhood dream of playing collegiate football!
I have fallen in love with PHDA’s mission and values. The idea that I, or anyone, can dance and move, all while glorifying and praising Jesus is just amazing! I am blessed to have been given an opportunity to teach little aspiring ballerinas about dance, but more importantly share Jesus’ love.
I pray daily for the dancers and their families. Specifically, I pray that each dancer will become more self-confident in who God created them to be, grow in their personal relationship with Jesus, and learn to lean on Jesus through any storm or victory they may face in their lives.
My favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 40:31
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint". God promises to give new strength and endurance to those who wait for Him.”
Lauren Bayse

DANCE INSTRUCTOR