My Story

Sam Barth was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, where her love for dance began at the age of four thanks to her grandmother, who enrolled her in her very first class. From that moment on, dance became more than just a hobby—it became her passion, her sanctuary, and her voice.

Sam trained under the guidance of Shadowmoon Wolf, the visionary behind her home studio, Moonstar. Though her childhood was marked by adversity—growing up in a divorced household where physical, mental, and substance abuse was frequent and instability was constant—Sam found light, strength, and purpose in movement. With the support of a village of mentors and loved ones who stepped in to guide her, she rose from hardship with determination and grace.

Dance was always Sam’s refuge—the place she turned to for release and joy. As her love for the art deepened, so did her drive. She began competing both regionally and nationally, as a soloist and team performer. To fund her training, Sam took on creative side jobs like berry picking and going door-to-door, learning early what grit, hustle, and independence truly meant.

By middle school, she had earned her first pair of pointe shoes and was double cast as both Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker under the direction of Oregon Ballet Theatre’s Ansa Capizzi. Sam developed a deep appreciation for ballet’s discipline and athleticism, which led her to pursue further training in highschool with esteemed institutions like Steps on Broadway and the Joffrey Ballet School. These experiences expanded her versatility and helped shape her into the multidimensional artist she is today. These experiences not only refined her technique but also broadened her movement vocabulary and deepened her connection to storytelling through dance. 

Around this same time, Sam experienced a profound transformation in her personal life through faith. Wrestling with the weight of past trauma throughout her adolescence, she found strength in a deepening relationship with God. Through Him, she found the courage to pursue a career path in dance that once felt impossible—with boldness, joy, and a heart full of hope.

At sixteen, Sam began teaching and choreographing, quickly discovering a profound passion for mentorship and education. Her dedication to her craft and community led her to compete for Miss Teen Oregon as well as earn her certification as a personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, reflecting her holistic approach to dancer wellness and performance. Toward the end of her highschool career, Sam signed with The Option Agency and was ready to take her career to the next level.

After graduating high school as an honor student with multiple scholarship offers, Sam relocated to Los Angeles, California to attend the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA), where she pursued a certificate in Dance Theater. Immersed in LA’s vibrant industry, she trained with leading choreographers, expanding her artistry to include singing and acting.

Now a recent graduate, Sam is stepping into the professional world with excitement and readiness. She continues to train, perform, and educate with the same heart and resilience that brought her here. Known for her creativity, leadership, and unwavering work ethic, Sam is building a career rooted in intention—one that uplifts others, honors her journey, and leaves a lasting impact on every space she enters.