EST. 2010
THE ULTIMATE COMMERCIAL DANCE TRAINING PROGRAM
Artistic Director: Rhapsody James
THE DIRECTORS
FOUNDER / ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
RHAPSODY JAMES
Bringing a wealth of experience spanning over 25 years in choreography and dance education, Rhapsody James stands as a highly sought-after figure in the Commercial Dance industry. Born in Brooklyn and raised in the Bronx, Rhapsody is renowned for her exceptional teaching skills and choreographic prowess, Rhapsody has left an indelible mark on the industry, with an impressive portfolio that includes collaborations with iconic artists such as Beyoncé, Madonna, Janet Jackson, Ciara, Chris Brown, Gwen Stefani, Nicki Minaj, Ariana Grande, Emotional Oranges, and Cassie, just to name a few.
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Recognized for her innovative and visionary approach, Rhapsody continues to shatter boundaries in choreography and creative direction. Venturing into the realm of film and television, her choreography graces hit shows like All American, Homecoming, Truth Be Told, Starkeisha, and Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story. Simultaneously, Rhapsody is passionately involved in her own projects, including the development of her female empowered Opel City Universe (Blackhouse Manor and Siren Assassins) , as well as showcasing her multifaceted talents through her hybrid dance company, R.ED (Rhapsody En Dance).
ASSOCIATE / THEATRICAL DIRECTOR
NICCO ANNAN
NICCO ANNAN is an immensely talented and versatile actor, dancer, and choreographer who, after making his mark in the Off-Broadway and regional theatre communities, is now etching his way on the Hollywood scene.
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Presently, Annan can be seen on Katori Hall’s critically acclaimed new drama series, P-VALLEY, which has been renewed for a second seasonby Starz. The series follows the community that builds around a strip club in the Mississippi Delta. Annanplays “Uncle Clifford,” a role that he has been with since its conception over a decade ago. As a Black gay man playing a non-binary role,Annan defies traditional gender limitations while bringing dignity and grace central the common humanity of the character he plays. Alan Sepinwall from ROLLING STONE calls Annan‘s role, “the cast’s big breakout —cynical boss and sentimental mother hen in one shiny package...” Also on television, Annan has been featured in recurring and guest-starring roles on series such as SHAMELESS, THIS IS US, SNOWFALL, CLAWS, HALF SISTERS, SMOSH, and CHEETAH IN AUGUST.
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In addition to Annan’s television work as an actor, heand his partner, Rhapsody James, from their commercial dance program, Motivating Excellence, choreographed the cotillion piece in the ALL AMERICAN episode titled,“Protect YaNeck.”The piece fuses the worlds of classical ballroom dance and current day commercial hip-hop, which has been submitted for a 2020 Emmy®nomination.
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In the theater community, Annan trained under pillars in the American Theatre such as IsrealHicks, George Faison, and Marilyn McCormick. He trained and earned his BFA from the Conservatory of Acting at Purchase College. Annan made his signature theatre premier inThe Hot Wing Kingby Katori Hall which is a genial play, built around a cooking contest in Memphis. Annan’s other theatre credits include, Katori Hall’sPussy Valley-World Premiere,Lady Killer's Love Story(CeeLo Green musical),Smokey Joe's Café,Five Guys Named Moe, andStoryville.
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