Spotlight On: Renée Austin
Tell us a little about yourself!
I’m originally from Chicago but have also lived and trained in Phoenix, Seattle, and now St. Louis! I just graduated from WashU with a BA in Dance and Minor in Psychology, joining RESILIENCE this past fall. I am very integrated into the St. Louis Dance Community; outside of RESILIENCE I also teach, choreograph, stay active in the street community with Alchemy STL, and have performed with STL Rhythm Collaborative, CKDC, RnB artist KBtheSinger, and Erin Morris in Jazz Shift. I am forever grateful to have my dream job, especially as a young Black woman in dance spaces where I'm sometimes the only one. I had two knee surgeries in high school and thought I would never touch a stage again; I now know I'm meant to dance, and hope I can inspire other young Black girls to pursue their passions even when it seems impossible.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Celebrating the beauty of Black culture while remembering the full history of Black people in the US and across the globe. The horrors and complexities of the past led to where we are now, and are relevant every day.
Who are some black artists (dance or non-dance) you find inspirational and why?
Donald Byrd - I am privileged to say that I worked with Donald for a few years through Spectrum Dance Thearer’s Academy program. His artistic expertise and approach to dance are awe-inspiring; he is part of why I am in a modern dance company today!
Misty Copeland - I grew up going to studios where I was often the only Black girl in the room; seeing Misty shine where there were not a lot of Black women inspired me to continue dancing at a young age.
Beyoncé - her music has fueled my life in many ways, one day I want to dance for her!
Redd Williams - Redd has a unique breadth and depth to his understanding of hip hop and the commercial industry that manifests in his choreography and teaching. Taking his classes helps me go beyond the limits I give myself as a dancer to discover who I can continue evolving into.
“Representation can only go so far without proper support and infrastructure to care for Black artists or any artist of a marginalized identity. While the dance community can improve on supporting not just Black artists, but all artists, I am excited to see how dance evolves and how artists of all disciplines in St. Louis push for a more vibrant, connected, and equitable arts community.”
Ways to connect with Renée:
RESILIENCE Dance Company: https://www.resiliencedancecompany.com/
IG: @reneeeaustin