Today we’d like to introduce you to Deanna Brooks
Deanna, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m Deanna Brooks! I was born and raised in New Jersey and began my dance journey at four at LaDanse School of Performing Arts in Linden, NJ. I trained in various styles, including salsa, tap, hip-hop, lyrical, contemporary, jazz, modern, and musical theater. Growing up in a studio setting, I was part of the competition team and later attended high school at the Academy for Performing Arts, where I studied technical theater and gained insight into the backstage aspects of live performance. There, I was able to learn more about stagecraft, lighting and sound design, and costuming!
After high school, I relocated to Los Angeles in 2021 to pursue dance professionally and earn my BFA in Commercial Dance. Throughout my time in LA, I have explored not only dance but also acting, choreography, cinematography, and directing. I was also part of the Business of Dance mentorship program with Menina Fortunato, where I connected with industry professionals and deepened my understanding of the business side of dance. This year, I’m thrilled to be training and performing with the Vixens Dance Company!
Now, I’m gearing up to graduate and couldn’t be more excited to fully immerse myself in my career. I’ve recently been focusing on training in heels, which has become one of my favorite styles—I love how empowered I feel when I perform in a heel. In the future, I want to merge film, fashion, and dance into my artistic expression, perform on stage and in music videos alongside my favorite artists, and eventually teach heels choreography and technique. Beyond performing, I dream of creating my own dance business or studio that fuses all of my creative passions into one space.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Overall, my journey has been a smooth one. I believe one of my biggest obstacles is myself. As a creative, self-doubt is always lingering. There are times when I wonder if I am good enough. What if my art isn’t “up to par”? There are also the people who question your career choice that can add to those limiting thoughts. My confidence has definitely grown, but it is still something I am learning to work on every day. I know I am where I need to be and that I will succeed. I won’t let the words and opinions of others override my passion and dedication to my craft.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a dancer who is passionate about training and performing in a variety of styles, including heels, jazz/jazz-funk, hip-hop, tap, and contemporary. Currently, I perform and train with Vixens Dance Company, and I look forward to continuing that journey. In addition to dancing, I have grown to love choreographing and creating my own work. One day, I hope to continue to do that on a larger scale. I have also begun to delve into voice acting and voice over work.
This year, I’m pushing myself by auditioning, choreographing, and sharing my work more openly. I am deeply committed to my craft, and I believe that my work is worthy of sharing even if it is still in the beginning stages. What sets me apart is my strong work ethic and quiet drive—I work hard without boasting, believing in the importance of both sharing my journey and taking time to fully immerse myself in each experience.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love best about LA is the community of artists. There are so many artists here who all have very unique and special things they want to share with the world. I love being in a city where so many people are here to create art and do what they love.
I least like the feeling of competition and the need to prove yourself. In some spaces, it seems like there is a sense of urgency to be the best and prove you need to be here. Obviously, in auditions, there are high stakes. However, in other settings and spaces, artists are present to learn, share, and grow. There are people who live life for others. We do not need to show people that we deserve to be here or that we are talented. Work ethic and genuineness go a long way. Showing up as your authentic self and being confident in yourself will speak louder than a facade and trying to prove your worth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thedeannabrooks.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xo.deanna.xo/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deanna.brooks.967422
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0JrqrVQC4RYaUwdQYCa7KA
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@xo.deanna.xo | Dance Reel: https://youtu.be/gVM6HQ8qyl4?si=FT5R1XqYnzDERCgK
Image Credits
Photographer: Alissa Roseborough @alissarosestudio
MUA: Manuel Espinoza @88manuel88
