Leah Brown and Christina Talley have a long history, with each other and in Philadelphia.Their paths first crossed back in high school at the Young Performers Theater Camp. After having lost touch for several years, they were brought back together as they found themselves attending various performances and artistic events  in Philadelphia. In 2015 both Leah and Christina opened their own studios formerly known as Free to Be Dance Academy (Leah) and Studio Eight Performing Arts Center (Christina) both located on Greene street in the Mt. Airy area of Philadelphia.  ​The year 2020 proved to be a challenging time for both studios, as the pandemic forced their closure, leaving Leah and Christina with a shared vision but no viable means to bring it to life. Although they longed to reopen their studios, the persistent grip of Covid restrictions made it seem like an impossible dream. Nevertheless, with determination and resilience, they made the bold decision to combine their efforts, giving rise to what is now known as the Free To Be Performing Arts Center. ​With the unwavering support of their exceptional staff, this center has flourished, nurturing the talents of over 150 students through a diverse curriculum that includes dance, drama, and vocal lessons. Moreover, their dedication to serving the community led them to expand their offerings, culminating in the establishment of Dreamers Inc! - a non-profit program catering to children through engaging camps, after-school activities, and impactful community outreach initiatives. Leah and Christina remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to create a nurturing environment that fosters the growth and development of their beloved communities. Together, they continue to inspire and empower individuals, instilling a love for the arts and a sense of possibility in all those they touch.