Makyla Brown
Makyla Brown is a standout student-athlete at Plant City High School whose competitive drive and discipline shine through her extensive accomplishments in dance. She has built an impressive performance résumé through years of dedication, training, and high-level competition.
A core member of Drawdy’s Dance School Competition Team (2021–present), Makyla has competed in solos, small groups, large groups, and mega lines, performing in numerous award-winning competitive routines. Her results include multiple 1st place finishes at regional and national competitions, including Teen Large Group at Showstopper Nationals (2022), Senior Small Group at Showstopper Regionals (2023), and Senior Solo and Teen Mega Line titles at StarQuest Regionals (2024). She also earned a 5th place finish in Teen/Senior Improv at StarQuest Finals (2025) and was selected to perform in the America Loves to Dance Awards Senior Small Group at Showstopper Finals (2025). Her team’s excellence was further recognized with a Crystal Award for highest adjudication in Senior Small Group.
Makyla’s artistry and technical skill have been consistently recognized through adjudication, earning multiple Superior and Excellent ratings in solo, duet, small group, and large group performances across several years of competition. She continues to demonstrate growth, culminating in Superior ratings in both her 2025 solo and small group performances, reflecting her rising level of execution and performance quality.
Beyond competition, she has remained active in community performance opportunities through Drawdy’s Dance School, performing annually at major local events such as the Florida Strawberry Festival Parade, Pioneer Day, Hillsborough County Fair, and other community showcases—contributing to both her athletic endurance and stage versatility.
Through years of consistent training, competitive success, and leadership in performance settings, Makyla Brown exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated and accomplished dance athlete.
How long have you been a dancer?
I have been dancing for a total of 10 years. I started at Carousel Dance Academy when I was 2 years old, then attended Macie’s School of Dance at age 8, and I have been dancing at Drawdy’s Dance School for the past 7 years. Dance has truly been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and it has shaped so much of who I am today.
What made you want to start dancing?
There has never really been a true “start” to dancing for me—it has always been a part of who I am. Ever since I was little, I loved making up dances with my cousin, or even by myself, to express not only my creativity but also the little storylines I would imagine in my head. I joined Drawdy’s when I was 11 after hearing they offered a musical theatre dance class. I had never tried that style before, but I thought it would be exciting to step outside my comfort zone and give it a try. Year after year, I became more involved, and my love for dance only grew stronger.
What is your favorite style of dance and why?
My favorite style of dance is ballet. I not only love performing it, but I also love watching it. There is something so beautiful about the flow, grace, and delicacy of ballet. When I watch other dancers perform, I admire the dedication and discipline they put into every movement, and it makes me appreciate the art form even more. When I perform ballet, I love the control it requires—every muscle in your body has to work together perfectly. It’s funny because ballet looks so light and effortless on stage, but it actually takes so much strength, focus, and precision behind the scenes.
How do you feel when you are dancing?
I feel free. Dance gives me a place to channel every emotion I’m feeling into movement, which helps me significantly with stress. I’ve always had a talent for improv, so when I’m feeling overwhelmed, I put in my AirPods, turn on music that reflects how I’m feeling, and just dance. It becomes my outlet. I’ve learned that after even 10 or 20 minutes, I feel lighter, calmer, and more like myself again.
What’s your favorite part of class or rehearsal?
My favorite part of class is adding to dances and watching them come to life. There is something really special about seeing an idea turn into a full performance piece. Choreography takes so much creativity, hard work, and teamwork, and being part of that process is such a rewarding experience. I love knowing that I get to help bring someone’s vision to life on stage.
What do you like to do when you aren’t dancing?
I really enjoy acting. I actually started my dance journey in musical theatre because it combined the two things I loved most—dance and performance. I became more interested in acting during middle school because I always thought it was fun to step into different situations and become someone else for a moment. Acting and dancing both allow me to tell stories, which is something I’ve always loved.
If you could create your own routine, what would it be about?
If I could create my own routine, it would definitely be a dance to “Snow White” by Laufey. The storyline would focus on learning to love yourself in a world full of constant comparison. I think that message is so important, especially for young people today. Dance has the power to tell meaningful stories, and I would want mine to inspire others to embrace who they are.
What do you like most about performing for an audience?
I love entertaining people and creating a connection with the audience. When I perform, I want people to feel something—whether that’s joy, inspiration, or even emotion. Knowing that my performance can move someone or leave a lasting impression is the best feeling. When I achieve that, I feel over the moon.
Do you have a favorite dance competition or recital memory?
My favorite dance competition memory was when my team won our first Crystal Award. For four years, we had worked tirelessly toward receiving that Crystal adjudication, and when we finally earned it, it felt like proof that all of our hard work, dedication, and perseverance had paid off. It was such a proud and unforgettable moment for all of us.
If you could perform anywhere, where would it be?
I would love to perform at the Richard Rodgers Theatre as an ensemble member in Hamilton. The show has such an incredible ensemble, and it would be such an honor to be part of something so powerful and inspiring. I’ve always said that if I ever had the chance to be in Hamilton, I would choose being in the ensemble over a lead role because of how important and impactful that role is in telling the story.
