Danielle Riley

Danielle Riley, born and raised in Washington, D.C., has been dancing since age 3. She began at Jones-Haywood Dance School, studying ballet, jazz, and tap, with ballet quickly becoming her favorite. After graduating from Duke Ellington School of the Arts in 2006, she pursued a dance career, starting as an apprentice with the Washington Reflections Dance Company. Moving to New York City, Danielle studied Horton, Graham, salsa, contemporary, and pointe at Dance Theatre of Harlem and The Ailey School. Back in D.C., she danced for the Washington Wizards, performed with local artists, and in burlesque shows at Sax. Danielle has taught at numerous studios and mentors students, passionately advocating for Black ballerinas and dancers in the DMV. She aims to help young dancers pursue their dreams and hopes to open a nonprofit dedicated to dance and arts education.