Renée Austin (she/they), originally from Chicago, began dancing at the age of 3 at Mayfair Dance Academy under the direction of Peggy Sutton. She continued training at numerous dance institutions, including Diverse Elements Dance Studio, Velocity Dance Center, and at Spectrum Dance Theater in their Academy Program. These experiences led Renée to pursue a BA in Dance at Washington University in St. Louis, where she focused on performance and developing her unique style. Her talent has led her to learn from and work with renowned artists across St. Louis and the country, including Donald Byrd, Eva Stone, Keyes Wiley, Cecil Slaughter, David Marchant, Joanna Dee Das, Elinor Harrison, Antonio Douthit-Boyd, Ashley Tate, Erin Morris, Kendra Key, Emily Duggins Ehling, Caroline Gonsalves Bertho, Ryadah Heiskell, Heather Beal, and Melanie George. Renée is elated to join RESILIENCE Dance Company for the 2023-2024 season!