About
Bio
Based in New York City, Deanna DiFranco graduated from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA, with a BFA in Dance in December 2022. At UArts, she trained under industry luminaries including Donna Faye Burchfield, Kyle and Dinita Clark, Tommie-Waheed Evans, Michael Sheridan, and Shayla-Vie Jenkins. During her undergraduate studies, Deanna was a member of the company at I am Phresh Dance Academy, under the direction of Mark “Smart Mark” Boston, with whom she travelled and competed at conventions and showcases across the Tri-State area. Immediately following graduation, Deanna attended Broadway Dance Center’s Professional Semester where she graduated in May 2023. During the proffesional semester, Deanna assisted LA artist, Dana Alexa and performed in works by Jay Mills and Mike Esperanza.
Deanna is currently a professional dancer in Manhattan, New York where she trains weekly in commercial classes and workshops in NYC’s world renowned studios. She is currently a member of Royal Thieves Company under the direction of Deshawn “Da Prince” Hawthorne, with whom she travels and performs in NYC and LA. Deanna is an up and coming dance artist ready to make her mark in the industry.
Artist Statement
Authenticity lights my fire. As a movement artist, being surrounded by raw, soulful energy influences all aspects of my life. My collaboration with not only fellow performance artists, but the strangers I pass, the smiles, the laughs and cries I share, are all moments that allow me to rediscover who I am over and over again. Through my art, I am working towards strengthening the relationship between the passion and grace that exists within dance. I am searching for ways to translate pure love and liveliness through creation and performance of the soul. I strive to use dance as a platform to become one with the feeling of being alive.
