Spotlight Performing Arts Academy — Attraction in Mint Hill

Wow, where to begin…

I’ve read the recent reviews numerous times and am simply stunned. I cannot alone change the minds of the people who are so relentlessly attempting to destroy a kind and compassionate woman’s business, reputation, and overall well-being. What I can do is give an account of my experience I’ve had at Spotlight over the years in hopes that future customers reading these reviews may be able to decipher truth from deceit.

My former high school did not (at the time) have the funds to produce a play/musical each year/semester, so Spotlight was my outlet to perform on stage, express myself, and grow as an actor. When I first walked in the doors of Spotlight about seven years, I was warmly greeted by Angela Mills and a former director of the show I was auditioning for. I’ve been a part of some fantastic shows here – both in ensemble and as leads – and each show always taught me something new. If I was ever unsure about something, such as an uncertainty with a section of a song, an insecurity with a dance number (‘cause God knows I’m no TikTok dancing star), or even doubt about myself as a performer in general, Angela’s support and encouragement always pushed me to be a better version of myself. Yes, Angela does have high expectations, but doesn’t any good teacher/mentor have these same ideals for those who they believe to be good leaders and role models?

I would also like to say that I was a part of the 24-hour Sweeney Todd production in the summer of 2018 and just want to give another perspective – take what you will from it. Firstly, I absolutely loved this show and is by far my favorite of all the shows I’ve ever done. Secondly, yes, Angela did show up a few hours after we had started rehearsing. However, from what I recall, we were already on a break and dancing to music before she arrived. We had been rehearsing tirelessly for four or five hours – surely a break was needed, yes? And yes, she went home after but as I recall I believe she was suffering from heat stroke.

I highly recommend Spotlight for people of all ages and anyone who loves theatre who wants to have the opportunity to sharpen their skills. You will learn and meet fantastic people.

I am and will always be grateful for my time here at Spotlight. Angela has poured her heart, soul, money, time, and energy to make Spotlight a positive place for aspiring artists to find their light. I’m not sure what ignited the most recent reviews, but I pray for peace, love, and happiness amongst you all. Words are more powerful than we can ever imagine; they can either speak life, or they can speak death. We do not know the circumstances that others are going through nor can we alone change those circumstances. Someone could be going through an extremely rough patch in their life and your words can make or break them. What we can do is choose love. Be uplifting, have patience and compassion, and allow forgiveness. If something someone did to you is bothering you, please approach them in person rather than hiding behind the mask. You will be much happier in the end and will find peace.

Thank you...

I wanted to wait a while for things to cool down before posting my review because I know it’s been absolute chaos. I started coming to spotlight back in 2016. It’s where I found my love for theater, it’s where I found confidence in myself and broke from my shell, and it’s where I’ve had the opportunity to make some amazing friends along the way. I’ve been in four shows in my time at spotlight and I definitely want to continue to do more. I don’t know everyone’s perspective, but for those who were/are trying to cancel Angela, I can only wonder how you can be so awfully cruel with your words, and think that’s the right thing to do. Some of you haven’t even been in shows under Angela to my understanding and are just doing it to hop on a hate wagon. You’re being five year olds. Have you even stopped to appreciate the foundation that spotlight and Angela has laid down for some of you? She’s literally done so much for all of you and I know she cares for each of her students. There’s nothing wrong with using your freedom of speech, but it appalls me that people could see freedom and use it for such hatred to try and tare down someone’s business. To those who have never had the spotlight experience, I would totally recommend it, both shows and classes! I’ve been coming here since I was 12 and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it and I...

I am a performer, a teacher, & a dance instructor in the charlotte area, & whenever I have a parent ask about a theatre program for their child, Spotlight, under the direction of Angela Mills, is the first place I recommend. Angela was my chorus teacher my junior year of high school (as well as my music appreciation & musical theatre teacher), & let me tell you, she knows her stuff! In her classes, I improved my technique significantly, expanded my knowledge of what I love to do, & grew as a performer both in ability & confidence. Whenever I am preparing for an audition, I can hear Angela’s voice in the back of my head correcting my pronunciation! My little brother began performing at spotlight shortly after I met Angela. He has done several shows there & has raved about his experience every time. Over the past five years, I’ve seen him, as well as his returning cast mates, improve tremendously! If your child loves theatre & wants to learn more while having fun, they will do great at Spotlight. If your child has a good attitude, a willingness to learn & be corrected, & a good work ethic, they will do great at Spotlight. Spotlight performing arts academy is a wonderful place for your child to learn, grow, & be actively involved...