Hi! I'm Bri Polk and I have been accepted into the prestigious Debbie Allen Dance Academy RISE Musical Theater Program—a dream opportunity that connects me with world-class training and experience. As a young person who has overcome so much, this program is more than classes—it’s healing, a chance to shine, and an opportunity to step boldly into my future.

About Me

I sang in the children's choir at First Church in Huntsville, AL from age 5 until middle school. I took my first formal vocal lesson in Dr. Julie Moore Foster's (Chair of the Oakwood University Music Department) Vocal Pedagogy course my last year in middle school and began taking private lessons with Dr. Foster my second year into high school. I received formal dance training from the age of 7 which exposed me to several performing and training opportunities. I've had the pleasure of working with known industry professionals such as Travis Cooper, Comfort Fedoke, Julius Rubio, and Travis Payne all while meeting the requirements to maintain my engagement in the Performing Arts Magnet program at Lee High School. My efforts also awarded me the opportunity to perform with the Memphis Grizzles Blue Bunch for the 25-26 basketball season under the direction of Coach Terran Gary. My ambition and hard work have now presented me with the opportunity to work with THE Ms. Debbie Allen (insert silent fit of excitement) and her colleagues to set the foundations for a career in the performing arts. I have been vocally training with Ms. Angel Massiah virtually since September for the Fall portion of this program.

Why This Matters

My journey has not been easy. From my sophomore year through graduation, I endured relentless bullying that deeply affected my mental health. I went through a period of intense depression where I struggled to see hope for myself. Through the performing arts and with support (my village is amazing), care, and incredible resilience, I fought my way back, used my gifts to communicate my pain and passion and give hope and support to those who have endured similar experiences. No one should have to experience that. Today, I stand on the other side of that season with a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to help others who may feel lost in their darkest moments.

This program is a once-in-a-lifetime step toward building that future. It nurtures my artistic side, keeps me surrounded by positive influences, and gives me the tools to use my voice both on stage and in life.

The Financial Need

Unfortunately, this opportunity comes with a heavy financial lift for me. The Spring semester will require me to relocate to LA:

Spring 2026 Tuition: $620/month ($2480)

Lodging: ~$1400 per month (~$5600)

Other expenses: Travel, meals, and performance-related costs

More Than a Donation—An Investment in Hope

Every dollar you give helps me keep walking a path of healing and possibility. To honor my journey, I will commit to donating any excess funds (funds that exceed the combined total tuition and lodging amounts) raised to two organizations: one that provides free or discounted mental health services to families and another that provides free or discounted performing arts opportunities to young people. Access to these resources saved and changed my life—and I want to pay that forward for others who may not have access to the same resources.

How You Can Help

Donate whatever amount feels right to you.

Share this campaign with your network, your social media, or even in conversation.

Pray, encourage, and uplift me as I continue this journey.

From the bottom of my heart—thank you for believing in me, for helping me stand tall after years of being torn down, and for investing not just in my dreams, but in my life.

With gratitude,

Bri Polk