Rhaniyah Chism of Little Rock, Arkansas. Rhaniyah began dancing at the age of 4
with Michael Tidwell’s Centre for the Dansarts where she studied ballet, tap and jazz. She attended Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School where her concentration was Dance. At the age of 14 Rhaniyah joined Robin Sanders Outloud Artistry the Young Stars Ensemble,
where she was trained in Contemporary/Modern, Hip-Hop and West African dance. Rhaniyah is fitness trainer and has led fitness dance classes for adults and children.
Rhaniyah danced in several productions
and musicals some include Little Rock Black Expo, Timmons Art Foundation, BET Experience in Los Angeles, CA, Arkansas Black Hall of Fame, B2K Millennium Tour, New Ballet Spring-Loaded 22-24.
Rhaniyah continued her education in dance at Alabama State University BFA Dance program her Freshman and Sophomore years. Rhaniyah completed her BFA in Dance at University of Memphis Spring 2024.
Rhaniyah has continued her dance training as a Teaching Performing Artist Apprentice at New Ballet Ensemble and School since August of 2021, where she instructs Hip Hop, West African, Creative Movement along with teaching dance in public schools in Memphis Pathfinder’s program. Rhaniyah was selected to be in the Camille A Brown Dancer mentoring program where she was mentored by CABD dancer/choreographer Catherine “Cat” Foster. Rhaniyah recently studied and perform with the Jacob’s Pillow Musical Theatre Program 2024. Where she was privileged to study under Sekou Mcmiller, Luis Salgado and Karla Puno Garcia.
Rhaniyah was chosen to be the Rat Queen in New Ballet adaptation of The Nut Remix, and is returning to Jacob’s Pillow for Creating in Jazz / The School at Jacob’s Pillow.