- December 14, 2025
The Mia Bella Dance Academy competition team returned home from the Celebration National Talent competition, in Gatlinburg, Tenn., with 18 awards.
One of the biggest awards went to Jazmyne Valenti, who was named first runner-up Dancer of the Year. The routine, “The Wounded,” also brought home high honors, winning Platinum First Overall, Top Choreography, and Best of the Best for the entire competition in the Rising Star dance-off.
The contemporary piece, “Don’t You Remember,” a trio featuring Samantha Tanenbaum, Russell Tanenbaum and Jazmyne Valenti, also won Platinum First Overall and Best of the Best in the Elite Division, Shining Star dance-off.
The studio’s Lady Gaga Production, featuring all 22 girls, won First Overall and placed second in the Rising Star dance-off.
“There were more than 1,000 dances and 30 studios — it’s pretty incredible for them to hit those markers,” said Brie Valenti, owner and artistic director of the studio.
But it doesn’t stop there. First-time competitors Shayna Mayes and Chloe Barney both placed in the Top 5 overall for their solos, with Myers getting the highest score in her division.
Jazmyne Valenti and Emmary Wolff were also awarded scholarships to compete in next year’s competition.
“It was amazing — it’s nice to see that your kids are growing,” Brie Valenti said. “They just blow my mind. Their dedication to what they do and their art form is inspiring for me as a teacher.”
But the dancers were not the only ones on the dance floor. Seven of the studio’s dance dads got in on the action when they preformed, “I’m Sexy and I Know It,” receiving a standing ovation.
“The audience went nuts,” Valenti said. “In 23 years, I had never seen a standing O.”
