Call Us: 678-224-1810
Call Us: 678-224-1810
The Studios Brookhaven aims to engage students in fulfilling, quality classes and challenge them to reach their true potential.
We hope you will find The Studios Brookhaven to be an inviting, family-friendly space where your kids are free to reach for the highest notes, soar in the grandest battements, and continually find joy in their consistent progress.
As Brookhaven’s premier performing arts and athletics studio, we offer an array of classes for all ages in music, theatre, film, dance, tumbling, acro, cheer, aerial siks, ninja/parkour and even Jiu Jitsu!
We offer private, 1:1 coaching sessions in tumbling/cheer, acting and dance as well as music lessons from highly trained musicians who currently perform in the Atlanta-metro area. Private lessons are for all ages but generally are appropriate for kids over five.
Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop, Jazz, Bollywood
preschool through elementary ages
Group Piano & Group Guitar
ages 3-5 and 6-8
Broadway
ages 5-13
Acting for Kids
ages 6-12
Tumbling/Cheer/Acro
ages 4-12
Ninja & Jiu Jitsu
ages 3-12
Aerial Silks
ages 4-12
Private Lessons
ages 5+
Our 7,000 square foot facility is one of the largest in Atlanta, nestled into Brookhaven. Our main feature is our gym, which also doubles as a black box theater. We have an array of athletics classes from tumbling to acro to ninja and this space transforms into a theater with a 24′ stage and 120 seats for musical productions. Our dance/silks studio is over 1500 square feet with 15′ ceilings, a state of the art sound system, 32′ feet of mirrors and a sprung, Marley dance floor. We also have seven private music lesson studios and two waiting areas for parents, complete with televisions, WiFi and coloring books for younger siblings.
Founded by Don Jones, The Studios Brookhaven is rooted in his deep and enduring passion for the arts. Don’s vision for the studio is to provide exemplary fine arts and athletics training to students of all ages and skill levels—from sparking creativity in young beginners to offering advanced instruction in dance, music, theatre, and athletics for aspiring performers and athletes.
At the heart of The Studios Brookhaven is a commitment to excellence. Don, a former professional Broadway and studio musician, personally selects top-tier instructors who are not only accomplished artists working throughout the Atlanta metro area, but also exceptional educators who connect with students. Families can trust that every class or lesson delivers high-quality instruction in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Join The Studios Brookhaven and become part of a community where talent is nurtured, creativity is celebrated, and the arts and athletics come to life.
Reach out to The Studios Brookhaven for any inquiries, bookings, or to learn more about our classes, camps, and birthday party packages. Our team is here to assist you.
Owner/Director
Education
Long Island University, Bachelor of Science in Music (Piano Performance), cum laude, 2003
Georgia State University, Master of Business Administration, 2015
Don’s passion for music developed at a young age. After just four years of formal piano lessons, he was accepted into the world renowned, Interlochen Arts Academy at age 16. Upon graduation in 1999, Don deferred his enrollment to the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) and moved to New York City. He soon became a rehearsal pianist on Broadway while he also performing in dozens of recitals throughout the Northeast. At age 23, he was the featured pianist for Gershwin’s Rhapsody In Blue at Tilles Center with a 30 piece orchestra. He has performed as a keyboardist for multiple Broadway shows, including Wicked and The Little Mermaid, and has been a requested pianist in masterclasses with Academy Award-winning composers, Marvin Hamlisch and Stephen Schwartz. He has accompanied such notable singers as Renee Fleming, Laura Osnes, Idina Menzel and more. Don has music directed and conducted over 120 different musical productions and has taught hundreds of piano students of all levels.
In Atlanta, Don is the owner of The Studios Brookhaven and Founder/Co-Director of The Atlanta Institute for Musical Theatre. Don has worked closely with The Alliance Theatre, City Springs Theatre Company, Atlanta Lyric Theatre, and Oglethorpe University. He has been adjunct faculty in the Musical Theatre Department at Brenau University and Don is also the Director of Music for Sandy Springs United Methodist Church.
Don has been featured in The New York Times, The Daily News, and locally in Simply Buckhead Magazine as a Culture Tastemaker and in the Voyage ATL publication multiple times.
Studio Manager & Teacher
Jenny Rizzo is thrilled to be joining The Studios Brookhaven as Studio Manager and teacher! Jenny is a multifaceted performer and passionate educator in theatre, music, and dance. Originally from New York City, she spent a decade performing and teaching in Montreal, Canada, and has spent the past few years in Atlanta, Georgia. She is excited to continue her journey to help foster a love of the arts!
Jenny holds a B.F.A. in Music Theater from The Hartt School (University of Hartford) and studied Classical Voice and Musical Theatre Development at Manhattan School of Music. She has been teaching the performing arts since 2008, and her journey began as a child singing and performing in theatre, playing all the instruments she could get her hands on, and she has never stopped!
In past roles, Jenny was the Director of Bach to Rock in Johns Creek and the Principal Teacher at Tutu School in Halcyon. She also served as the Artistic Director and Choreographer of the Montreal Children’s Theatre, music directed, and choreographed numerous regional and educational productions, and was a teaching artist for The Alliance Theatre.
When she’s not teaching, Jenny works as a vocalist, actor, harpist, choreographer, and director along the U.S. and Canadian East Coast. Some of her credits include: Rhonda in Fancy Nancy! The Musical (Segal Center for Performing Arts), Carla in NINE (New York Summer Voice Festival), and Napoleonic Apparition in A Christmas Carol (Hartford Stage).
Jenny is excited to be a part of The Studios Brookhaven and looks forward to contributing to the studio’s growth while inspiring and helping cultivate new talent in the community!
Assistant Studio Manager
Education:
Baylor University, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance with a Concentration in Musical Theatre, 2025
Joseph grew up walking down the block to rehearsals at the Flat Rock Playhouse in Flat Rock, NC, where he learned his love for the arts. He performing there regularly from 6th grade through college in shows like The Music Man, James and the Giant Peach, Cabaret, Rootabaga Express!, and four iterations of A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas.
At Baylor University, Joseph spent 3 years as the university’s mascot Bruiser (@baylor_mascots) on top of his time on and behind the stage of the theatre department.
Having moved to Atlanta in July of 2025, Joseph is excited to combine his love of music education/directing, voice, and acting with his love of working with kids!
Group Piano & Piano Instructor
Education:
Dakota Wesleyan University, Bachelor of Arts, Interdisciplinary Theatre Studies, 2024
Jane Kelly started playing piano at six years old, and since then, her passion for the instrument has only continued to grow. In the past decade, Jane has developed her skill as a pianist while also picking up violin, guitar, and voice. In college, Jane completed a minor in music and spent much of her time in extracurriculur ensembles such as choir and jazz band.
While Jane has worked with children for several years, since moving to Atlanta in the summer of 2023, she has made work in the education field one of her primary focuses. She teaches theatre for the Alliance Theatre and Synchronicity Theatre and is extremely passionate about fostering a love and appreciation of the arts in little learners.
Jane is founder and executive director of Moonrise Theatre, an Atlanta-based nonprofit theatre company dedicated to creating an inclusive, safe environment, and engaging people on and off stage.
Director & Choreographer, Piano & Voice Instructor
Education:
Columbus State University, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance with a certificate in Musical Theatre, Summa Cum Laude, 2022
Christie began pursuing musical theatre at a very young age because her mother was a music teacher. She instantly fell in love with theatre and knew she wanted to make a career out of it. She has an extensive background in voice, acting, and dance training. Before she was 18, she worked with Broadway Artists Alliance for numerous intensives in New York, worked with MTI in the first cast of Peter Pan Jr. and was an Honor member in the National Thespian Society. She placed 1st place several years in a row for the GA NATS Musical Theatre competition, and was a Finalist in the National NATS vocal competition. Throughout the years, her favorite roles include Catherine in Pippin (Columbus State University), Wednesday in The Addams Family (Newnan Theatre Company), LuLu in Cabaret (Columbus State University), and ensemble for Spamalot (Springer Opera House). Recently, she was also able to originate the role of Claire in SATB: A New Musical (Atlanta Musical Theatre Festival- Jennie T Anderson Theatre). Now, she is still pursuing theatre in Atlanta!
In addition to performing, her love for teaching began a few years ago as she helped choreograph the musical 42nd Street. Ever since, she has been teaching lessons and choreographing for children. She recently went on a children’s theatre tour with Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre and got to teach, choreograph, and perform with kids all over the Midwest! She is so grateful to be a part of this wonderful company because she gets the chance to share her joy with children and watch them fall in love with musical theatre!
Lead Music Instructor & Curriculum Development
Acting Class Instructor
Education:
University of Miami, Bachelor of Arts, Broadcast Journalism and Sociology, 2006
Megan’s acting career has spanned decades in the industry, beginning as a child actor herself at the age of six. Growing up, most of her work was right here in the Southeast and New York before moving out to Los Angeles after college. Her credits include 90210, Criminal Minds, Burn Notice, and multiple films and national commercials. In addition to acting behind the scenes, she has worked as a talent agent in Los Angeles and as a casting assistant in Miami. But her biggest role of all is that of a wife and mom to a 7-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son here in Brookhaven. She is thrilled to be bringing her love and appreciation for acting and the arts to the next generation.
Assistant Studio Manager
Jenna brings years of experience in early childhood education and a lifelong love of music to The Studios Brookhaven. With a background as both a preschool teacher and private nanny, she blends creativity, play, and foundational music skills to spark curiosity and confidence in young learners. Jenna is passionate about fostering joyful, supportive environments where children can explore rhythm, movement, and self-expression, and she is especially dedicated to creating inclusive spaces for neurodivergent children to thrive.
Adult Musical Theatre Dance Instructor
Stage director and choreographer Ricardo Aponte has directed over 15 musicals and choreographed over 30 musicals, operas, and industrial shows nationwide. Ricardo is originally from Venezuela and resides in Atlanta, GA, where he has become one of the most in-demand creators, recognized with 3 Suzi Awards and ten nominations. Recent work: Director and/or Choreographer- Atlanta Opera (Candide, Cabaret, Revolution of Steve Jobs, Carmen, and Frida), Cinderella (Aurora Theatre), Luisa Fernanda (Florentine Opera), White Christmas (Jennie T. Anderson). He’s also the founder and artistic director of Theatre Platform Project, an educational nonprofit, providing performing arts programs to diverse communities in Atlanta.
Piano, Voice and Musical Theatre Instructor
Molly’s passion for music and performance began at a young age. By the time she was five, she was neck deep in piano lessons and weekly tap and ballet training. Eventually, she discovered her passion for musical theater and has been onstage ever since. Molly graduated in 2023 from Ohio University with a BFA in Musical Theater. While in school, she also received a Dance Minor and an Actor-Musicianship certificate. In addition to piano, Molly also plays clarinet and guitar. Since returning to Atlanta, Molly has been working as a professional actress and educator around the city. She has been lucky enough to perform at the Horizon Theater, Georgia Ensemble Theater, Out Front Theater Co., and the Center for Puppetry Arts to name a few. She is over the moon to join The Studios Brookhaven family and help inspire the next generation of young artists and human beings.
Tumbling/Cheer Instructor
Bio coming soon…
Aerial Silks Instructor
Bio coming soon!
Ninja Instructor
With a lifelong passion for movement, Sasha began training in Parkour and Gymnastics at a very young age. This early start sparked a deep understanding of how exciting and at times challenging it can be to learn new skills. That’s why Sasha is dedicated to guiding students through every step of their journey, no matter their age or experience level.
As an APK-certified Parkour instructor and experienced gymnastics coach, Sasha has worked with a wide range of students and personalities. His coaching background includes time at places like American Parkour, Peach Pit Gymnastics and Intown Stars Gymnastics, where he coached both recreational and competitive gymnastics as well as Parkour, helping athletes build confidence, strength, and creativity through movement.
Sasha believes in creating a supportive and empowering environment where students can progress at their own pace. His Motto? “See obstacles as opportunities not limitations!”
Kids Jiu Jitsu
Education:
University of Michigan, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a certification in Marketing & Sales in the Ross School of Business, 2019
Reuben is passionate about teaching Jiu Jitsu and helping athletes of all ages reach their potential. He’s had the privilege of working with kids for several years, guiding them not only in their physical development but also in building confidence and discipline. With his experience coaching young athletes, Reuben understand the importance of creating a positive, supportive and fun environment where kids can thrive.
Before stepping into coaching, Reuben played football at the University of Michigan under Coach Harbaugh, where he developed a strong foundation in teamwork, leadership, and resilience values that he brings to his Jiu Jitsu classes. He is committed to helping students develop the fundamental techniques they need to succeed, both on the mats and in life.
Reuben is excited to meet everyone and is looking forward to a great year of learning and growth together!
Tumbling & Dance Instructor
Education:
Kennesaw State University, Bachelor of Arts, expected 2026
Candace Shoger has been dancing for over fourteen years. Her training focus is ballet and jazz, but she has training in various other styles as well. She is currently a Junior at Kennesaw State University where she will major in Dance with a concentration in Ballet. She also did a two week multi-genre training program with Joffrey West LA. She has also taught dance such as movement classes, ballet, tap, jazz, and contemporary to children through the ages of 3-8 year olds for six years.
Preschool Tumbling Instructor
Maggie Carpenter is a lifelong lover of cheer and gymnastics. While growing up in the Cleveland, Ohio area, she took her first gymnastics class at two years old and went on to many years of recreational gymnastics and ten years of competitive cheerleading. In addition to her cheerleading background, she has an extensive performing arts background and currently sings in the Soprano II section of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chorus. She is also an avid reader and loves all things arts and crafts. She is not afraid to be silly and loves working with the youngest athletes. Her goal for each tumbling class is to safely coach children through the beginnings of proper technique while having the most amount of fun possible!
Tumbling Coach
Education:
Kennesaw State University, Bachelor of Science in Biology; Dance minor, 2019
Morehouse School of Medicine, Master of Science in Biotechnology, summa cum laude, 2022
Kyrieá “KC” Crudup is a versatile and talented instructor with an impressive background spanning over 15 years in teaching dance, cheerleading, gymnastics, and even group fitness such as Zumba. She started her performing arts journey as a singer and musical theater performer. From there her love for tumbling propelled her into gymnastics and competitive cheer. She later transitioned to dance-based performances and has since been trained in various styles such as Modern, Ballet, Hip-hop, Contemporary/Lyrical, and African, as well as apparatus-based dance such as Artistic Pole and Lyra. Kyrieá holds Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification to keep her prepared for any situation as she continues her career working with children and adults alike.
She is passionate about prompting multidimensional growth in her classroom, using movement to enhance social, emotional, and cognitive development. She is a strong advocate for diversity in both arts and sciences and finds joy in motivating others to gain confidence in her classes!
Piano Instructor
Piano Instructor
University of West Georgia, Bachelor of Piano and Composition, 2018
With 6 years of experience teaching piano, Hanson brings a blend of formal education and practical expertise to his lessons. With his bachelors degree in piano and music composition, he is equipped to teach students of all ages, from 4 years old to adults, at beginner to intermediate levels.
His teaching philosophy revolves around patience and understanding. Hanson strives to connect with each student, recognizing their unique needs and strengths and helps them grow through kindness and motivation.
His goal is to instill a love for music while encouraging hard work and dedication. He teaches many genres of music, tailoring lessons to the interests and goals of each student. His professional experience includes accompanying choirs, performing at weddings,
performing with bands, and composing original pieces.
What he enjoys most about teaching piano is witnessing the joy and progress of his students. He aims to make lessons fun and stress-free, ensuring that his students improve each week. With a patient and supportive approach, Hanson helps students discover what they love about music to reach their fullest potential.
Piano & Voice Instructor
Education: State University of New York at Potsdam, Bachelor of Arts in Theatre with a focus in Acting, Summa Cum Laude, 2017
Faina has been intensively studying performance art since she was six, learning vocal performance, piano, and acting at the Music Conservatory of Westchester. During her time at SUNY Potsdam, she was cast in at least one major production every semester earning her enough credits to graduate a year early. She then worked as a teacher’s aide for a kindergarten class in McGraw Elementary School in McGraw, NY and she discovered her love for teaching students and helping them develop new skills to bring with them into their everyday lives.
Since moving to Atlanta, she has been cast at theaters all over the city, including Actor’s Express, the Academy Theatre, Resurgens Theater, Arís Celtic Theatre, 7Stages, Atlanta Fringe Festival, Limelight, Rolecall, Atlanta Shakespeare Tavern, JesterHall, Woodstock Arts and Onstage Atlanta. She was especially excited to be working on Theatre-for-Young-Audiences productions with the Shakespeare Tavern and Woodstock Arts, helping young students understand Shakespeare (Midsummer Night’s Dream) and apply folklore to their understanding of the world (Tall Tales and The Lorax) through interactive performance. She is currently a member of Actor’s Equity, the professional union for theatre actors and stage managers. Faina is also a professional singer and section leader for Peachtree Christian Church, as well as for U.S.Beat, a corporate band. Faina is excited to work with students to develop new skills that will nurture a love for music and the arts in a way that supports their growth and gives them the tools they need to navigate their worlds!
Piano, Guitar, & Ukulele Instructor
Education:
Kennesaw State University, Bachelor of Science, English Education, 2014
Berklee College of Music (Undergraduate studies)
Jenn Gibson has 20 years of experience teaching private music lessons at various organizations throughout Atlanta. She is a talented multi-instrumentalist, proficient in piano, guitar, ukulele, and songwriting. Jenn received formal music training at Berklee College of Music and performed in many notable cover bands. Locally, Jenn has performed at The Atlanta Dogwood Festival, The Garden Club and Tin Roof Cantina.
Jenn noticed from an early age that she possessed a talent for music as she was playing music by ear when she was just five years old. Through her time in music lessons when she was a child as well as her time at Berklee, she developed her musical talent and is proficient at transposing and transcribing music. She enjoys helping her students learn how to nurture their own talents, as well as emphasizing the importance of sight-reading music and building a strong rhythmic foundation.
Guitar & Voice Instructor
Abbey is a singer, dancer, actor, musician and artist from Baltimore, MD. Over the past decade, Abbey has performed in various venues ranging from amphitheaters across the world.. She began her career as a dancer in NYC but over the last decade evolved into a multifaceted artist, business-owner and performer. Over the last five years, she has also been teaching and developing the musicians and performers of the future. Building the student’s confidence is her focus while she teaches guitar, piano, voice and dance. You can find her music on streaming platforms and follow her online – abbeydanna.com
Piano Instructor
Amanda DeJiacomo began playing piano at the age of 6 and continued her piano studies through college. Amanda began her collegiate studies at Lee University, where she was accepted into the School of Music, and took piano lessons. She transferred to Shorter University and was also accepted into the School of Music, where she continued lessons and joined Choir. Amanda performed in multiple shows at Shorter University.
In addition to piano, Amanda expanded her musical career in middle school through playing flute and piccolo and achieving First Chair All State band. Amanda played in multiple piano Guild competitions and received the highest ratings.
Amanda has also studied with the Upright Citizens Brigade in Improvisation and Sketch Comedy. Amanda acted in multiple professional projects in Los Angeles and Atlanta. She is a 2-time regional champion golfer and competed in two National College Golf Championships. Amanda grew up as a musician and athlete and fully believes these have set her up for success. She looks forward to meeting her new students and sharing her knowledge and joy of music!
