Trina Jackson, Artistic Director
Trina Jackson, Artistic Director brings over 35 years of experience to the Arts Center. Her early training began in Tampa, Florida where she studied jazz, tap, acrobatics/gymnastics, and ballet under the direction of Renee Roos, Jackie Loto, and Anna Marie Sagi. Summers found Trina studying in New York City with such teaching legends as Luigi, Charles Kelley, David Howard, and Melissa Hayden.
Following graduation Trina relocated to New York to study full time.She soon became a scholarship student at the Broadway Dance Center allowing her to learn from master teachers like Frank Hatchett, Bob Rizzo, Germaine Salsberg, Judy Bassing, and Ronnie DeMarco.
That first year in the Big Apple launched her professional career as a performer being cast in Pippin' and Applause with local theatres. And also as a choreographer. First choreographing "Guys and Dolls" for Bronxville High School and then "You're A Good Man Charlie Brown" for a local Children's Theatre.
Trina spent the next 13 years working full time as a performer in shows throughout the United States and abroad. She enjoyed being in musicals such as "Grease", "My One and Only" (first Equity contract) and "Anything Goes" to name a few. She appeared in numerous review shows at resorts, on cruise ships, and in theaters. Other professional experience includes commercials, music videos, trade shows, print work, and even a USFL cheerleader.
She has taught students throughout the United States, in the Caribbean, and in Nicaragua. Along with musicals, Trina has choreographed for dancers, gymnasts, actors, cheerleaders, and Miss America Pageant contestants. She has been a national talent competition judge since 1986.