Faculty
“Each dance instructor is selected carefully, both for technical skills and their ability to work with children. Our staff consists of trained professionals with extensive backgrounds in all our areas of concentration. All of our teachers have at least 5 years of teaching experience - some as many as 25 to 40 years. They also have a rapport with students and a desire to help them reach their full potential.”
-Andrea Freed-Levenson, Owner
For more than three decades, Andrea Barras Govier has been the heart of the Freed School of Performing Arts. As studio manager, Artistic Director of the Sumter Civic Dance Company, and instructor, she has shaped generations of dancers with her signature blend of encouragement, discipline, and genuine love for the art form.
Dance has been part of Andrea’s life since age 11, when she first walked through the doors of the Freed School — and she never left. By 15, she was dancing with the Sumter Civic Dance Company and working at the studio, learning both the artistry and the operations of the place that would become her second home. Now 46, she has spent more than 30 years teaching dancers of all ages and backgrounds.
Andrea holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina, a foundation that supports her leadership in both the artistic and administrative sides of the studio. Her dance journey has taken her from South Carolina to New York and stages across the country, but her greatest joy has always been teaching. She believes in creating a space where dancers feel supported, challenged, and inspired — a place where technique and artistry grow alongside confidence and character.
Her training and teaching were shaped by two extraordinary women: her mentor and teacher, Andrea Freed‑Levenson, and the studio’s founder, Betty Freed. Working under Betty in the office and under Andrea Freed‑Levenson in the classroom instilled in her the work ethic, leadership, and high standards that define her approach today. The phrase “If you can work for Betty Freed, you can work for anyone” is one she carries with pride.
Andrea’s leadership extends far beyond the studio walls. She ran and taught the dance program at Thomas Sumter Academy for 20 years, building a strong foundation for young dancers in the private school community. She also travels across South Carolina conducting dance residencies in public schools of every size, demographic, and background — bringing high‑quality dance education to students who might not otherwise have access to it.
After serving as a principal dancer with the Sumter Civic Dance Company for 30 years, Andrea now follows in the footsteps of Andrea Freed‑Levenson as the company’s Artistic Director. Her experience extends into backstage operations as well, with hands‑on knowledge of production management and stage‑building through IATSE. She thrives on bringing large groups of diverse people together to create something bigger than themselves, taking audiences on an emotional journey of joy, connection, and shared experience.
Whether she is choreographing a company piece, guiding a young dancer through their first plié, or organizing a full‑scale production, Andrea brings passion, professionalism, and heart to everything she does. Her deep roots in the Freed School’s history — and her commitment to its future — make her not just an instructor, but a guardian of the studio’s legacy.
Tia Robinson holds a degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of South Carolina and teaches preschool at Ruby J. Headstart. She has been a dedicated member of the Freed School faculty for over 20 years, teaching dance and gymnastics with professionalism, technical skill, and a deep commitment to her students. A former member of the Sumter Civic Dance Company, she now serves as Director of the Freed School Gymnastics Program and is USA Gymnastics safety certified.
Ms. Tia began her dance training at the Freed School at age five and went on to complete 13 years of study and 20 years as a company member with SCDC. Her performance experience includes regional engagements, the Piccolo Spoleto Festival, and a cruise‑ship performance tour. These experiences shaped the values she now instills in her students: punctuality, dependability, personal excellence, and perseverance.
With more than two decades of teaching experience, Ms. Robinson creates a structured, encouraging, and nurturing environment where students can grow in skill and confidence. Her background as a classroom teacher enhances her ability to meet diverse learning needs and support each child’s success.
Her long-standing connection to the Freed School remains deeply meaningful, and she continues to be inspired by the growth, resilience, and joy of the children she teaches.
Toni McCray grew up in Manning, South Carolina, where she began dancing at age three and started her formal training at the Freed School of Performing Arts at age five. She trained extensively in all styles of dance and developed a deep connection to each form, drawing inspiration from her life, mood, and the stories she wants to express.
A graduate of Morris College with a degree in Recreation Management, Toni spent several years teaching and performing with the Alabama Christian Dance Theater, earning elite honors in International Dance Acclaim for two consecutive years. She has continued her professional development through master classes with Broadway artist Jermaine Rembert and training at Steps on Broadway and Broadway Dance Center in New York. Her performance credits include dancing at Disney World and on cruise ships.
Toni began teaching at age 18 and quickly discovered her passion for connecting with students. She teaches all styles of dance with a blend of strong technique, creativity, and encouragement. A Sumter Civic Dance Company alumna, she has returned to Freed as both an instructor and a principal dancer. As part of the Sumter Civic Dance Company — included on South Carolina’s Artist in Residence Roster — she also teaches in public schools across the state, sharing her love of dance with diverse communities.
Creative and hands‑on by nature, Toni loves the energy of dancers who never run out of things to talk about — and she treasures the lifelong friendships she has built through dance.
Don Phillips has been an integral part of the Freed School of Performing Arts for more than three decades. Don is a new addition to the Freed School staff and will be teaching tap and heading up our Adult Dance program. A dedicated dancer and performer, he has trained and performed with the school for over 30 years and has been a member of the Sumter Civic Dance Company for 28 of those years. His involvement with the company provided him the distinguished opportunity to study at the renowned Broadway Dance Center, where he trained with some of the industry's most accomplished dance professionals.
A 1984 graduate of Sumter High School, Don honorably served four years in the United States Army. Following his military service, he established a successful career in cosmetology, working as both a licensed cosmetologist and cosmetology instructor for more than 30 years. His dedication to education and professional development earned him widespread respect within the field.
Pursuing a new professional direction, Don earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Management from Claflin University and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South University. He is licensed by the State of South Carolina as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and currently serves as a Professional Counselor with the South Carolina Department of Corrections, where he is committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of those in his care.
Throughout his life, dance has remained a profound source of inspiration and personal fulfillment. Don attributes his passion for the performing arts and much of his artistic development to the mentorship of Andrea Freed Levenson. He remains deeply grateful for her guidance, encouragement, and enduring influence on his life and career.
Don's distinguished record of military service, professional achievement, academic accomplishment, and artistic dedication reflects a lifelong commitment to excellence, service, and personal growth. His continued contributions to both the counseling profession and the performing arts serve as an inspiration to those who have the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.
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Raised in Miami, Devon Lowery was exposed to a rich and diverse dance culture that shaped his artistic journey and gave him the opportunity to explore various styles of movement while discovering his passion and dedication to dance.
He began dancing in high school on a school-sponsored competition dance team, performing at pep rallies and competing regionally. His dedication earned him a senior-year scholarship at a studio ballet academy, where he received his most significant technical training.
Afterward, he broadened his repertoire, training and performing with a modern dance company and a commercial dance studio. His performance credits span stage productions, music videos, water ballet shows, and interactive crowd performances. Currently, Devon is also a principal dancer with the Sumter Civic Dance Company, bringing his leadership and artistry to the local community.
Devon’s love for teaching began right after high school, when he returned to mentor his original dance team, carrying forward the spirit of dedication instilled by his coach. Now, as a Jazz/Funk instructor and the newest addition to the Freed School staff, he brings a blend of strong technique, expressive movement, performance quality, and infectious confidence to every class.
Charity Stewart brings warmth, organization, and a deep love for the performing arts to her role as Office Manager at the Freed School of Performing Arts. Her journey began long before she ever stepped behind the front desk. As a dedicated parent volunteer, Charity spent years helping wherever she was needed to keep the studio running smoothly. When the previous office manager faced an unexpected situation, Charity was asked to step in temporarily. Already familiar with the students, staff, and the rhythm of studio life, the transition felt natural — and when the position became permanently available, she embraced it wholeheartedly.
Charity believes that a well‑run studio starts with clear communication and thoughtful organization. She works closely with staff, parents, and dancers to ensure every need is met, using detailed to‑do lists and timelines to keep everyone informed and supported. Her goal is simple: to make sure the studio feels calm, connected, and ready for dancers to thrive.
The most rewarding part of her work is watching dancers grow — not only in their technique, but in their confidence, maturity, and character. Charity loves helping young people expand their worldview and become stronger, kinder humans. She creates a welcoming environment by greeting families with genuine warmth, making eye contact, and giving her full attention to each person who walks through the door. Listening with purpose allows her to connect with the wide variety of families who trust Freed with their dancers.
Charity brings a rich background to her role, including 18 years of teaching at the high school and college levels, homeschooling three of her four children, and more than 30 years of volunteering in theater and the performing arts. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, a Master of Education in Secondary Math, and is currently pursuing an Associate’s degree in Accounting. Outside the studio, she is active with the local Anchored Archers Ministry Group, where she teaches archery.
With her blend of professionalism, compassion, and lifelong dedication to the arts, Charity is an essential part of what makes the Freed School feel like home.
Sensei Terri Jones graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration/Management and a Master's Degree in Human Resource Management from Troy University. With over 25 years of martial arts experience, she fulfilled her lifelong dream by opening Cross Training Martial Arts. but after the Covid-19 pandemic, she relocated to Freed School of Performing Arts. She also co-owned Dr. Rock's School of Karate Technology. She also teaches martial arts to students in the Jehovah HYPE program. Outside of the dojo, she owns Rivers Property Solutions and is an Asset Manager with an Investment Company. Her love for martial arts continues to be a driving force in her life and she is committed to inspiring others.
Angela Burkett has a deep passion for making fitness fun, energizing, and accessible to everyone. She is excited to bring that same enthusiasm to her classes, which include Stronger Every Rep strength and conditioning, Chair Fitness, and Strength Conditioning for Dancers. Anglela brings incredible energy, compassion, and a true passion for health and wellness to our studio family. Her fitness journey began at age 27 when she made the life-changing decision to quit smoking. As she searched for a healthier lifestyle, she started walking, which quickly progressed to running and eventually led her to the world of group fitness and Zumba.
After beginning her career as a Zumba instructor over 10 years ago, she discovered a deeper love for strength training when a friend invited her into the weight room. One workout was all it took—she was hooked. Since then, she has earned certifications as a Group Fitness Instructor, Personal Trainer, and Nutrition Coach, continually expanding her knowledge of how to help others become stronger, healthier, and more confident.
Her teaching style is energetic, encouraging, and welcoming to every individual, regardless of age or fitness level. She believes that fitness is not a competition and empowers her students to work at their own pace while providing modifications and actively participating alongside them. Her goal is to make every person feel comfortable while challenging them to discover what they are capable of achieving.
As our Dance Strength & Conditioning instructor, she helps dancers develop the strength, flexibility, core stability, endurance, and stamina necessary to become powerful, well-rounded performers. She loves watching dancers gain confidence—not only in their abilities but also in seeing the physical progress they have worked hard to achieve.
From the very first time she walked through our doors, she knew she had found a second family. She treasures being part of our studio community and feels honored to help students grow stronger both physically and mentally.
Her philosophy is simple: “Movement is Medicine. Health is Wealth. Attitude is Everything.” She believes strength is a gift and that maintaining our health allows us to preserve our independence and live life to the fullest.
When she isn’t leading a class, you can probably find her watching cooking shows or cheering on her favorite home renovation experts, The Property Brothers.