Today we’d like to introduce you to Domenique Ross.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
As a child, I would have described myself as rhythmless, yet I always had a strong desire to move. At eight years old, I took my first real step into dance through an after school program, never imagining where the journey would take me. I trained at Hill Dance Academy Theatre, Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts 6-12, and Reed Dance II, where my passion and discipline for the art form continued to grow.
Growing up in a single parent household, I witnessed the true meaning of sacrifice. My mother instilled in me the confidence to know that anything is attainable through hard work. I always had the desire to attend a Historically Black College and University, therefore Howard University was the perfect fit for me. From 2019 to 2023, I attended Howard, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts, concentrating in Dance. My time at Howard deepened my understanding of my identity as a Black woman while profoundly shaping my artistic voice. While there, I performed at the International Association of Blacks in Dance Conference, taught a master class at The Kennedy Center, and interned with The Washington Ballet. These experiences between the ages of 18-21 were more than milestones, they provided me a glimpse into the future I was building. After graduation, I stepped fully into the professional world with Jane Franklin Dance in Arlington, Virginia while completing a multitude of freelance/choreographic projects throughout the East Coast.
In 2024, I took a leap of faith and moved to Sevilla, Spain to teach English and Dance professionally. While abroad, I performed in two international productions in 2025 with On Dance Studios. Living in Spain broadened my horizons and allowed me to travel to countries I never even considered. In September 2025, I relocated to Atlanta to pursue dance full time. While risk taking had become familiar to me, this move felt different because there was no clear blueprint. I packed up my suitcases, prayed, and trusted that the universe would align everything how it was supposed to. Since arriving, I have worked as a dancer with The Color Purple’s Obsidian Arts Collective, performed in the Dance Canvas palette project and upcoming March production, and recently signed with KK Talent Brand Agency.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of my favorite quotes that always stuck with me is “Nothing worth having is meant to be easy.” While I understand obstacles are inevitable, I appreciate the beauty in the journey even when results weren’t initially promising. I’ve been blessed with many opportunities from a young age, but they did not come without trials. At 13, I experienced my first major injury when I broke the fifth metatarsal bone in my foot. While it wasn’t detrimental to my career, it was my first real confrontation with the fragility of being a dancer and the possibility that it could all end.
Fortunately, that hasn’t been my story, and I take great pride in caring for my instrument. Alongside the many acceptances in my career, there have also been plenty of rejections. Each experience has taught me that every moment, whether triumphant or difficult, is an opportunity to grow. Being an artist is one of the purest forms of vulnerability, as it reveals not just what you create, but how you endure, adapt, and rise through every trial.
Currently, I work as a dance educator, teaching Ballet and Contemporary to dancers ages 7-15. While I hadn’t initially anticipated working in education, I have learned so much from my students. They have taught me to see the beauty in the learning process, trusting my intuition, and reminding the next generation of artists that they are capable of accomplishing their dreams. Through them, I see myself and understand why having a great teacher can truly change the trajectory of your future.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I consider myself a multifaceted artist, working across multiple creative avenues. Currently, I serve as the Executive Relations Coordinator for Buckhead Art & Co., and I also create content marketing materials for a variety of businesses, including fashion brands, restaurants, and artists. Working in these different capacities allows me to be recognized not just for one skill, but for a multitude of creative talents.
In dance, what sets me apart is my versatility. I am trained in a wide range of styles: including Ballet, Jazz, West African, Contemporary, Horton, Graham, Hip Hop, Heels, Stepping, and more which allows me to confidently approach any choreography or performance that comes my way. Beyond technique, I value storytelling through movement and the ability to shift between styles while maintaining authenticity and intention. My foundation in both classical and contemporary training has taught me discipline and precision, while my experience in commercial and community based spaces has strengthened my ability to connect emotionally with an audience. I strive to bring both athleticism and artistry into every performance, allowing each opportunity to feel honest, grounded, and unique.
What I am most proud of is my ability to adapt and find joy in every opportunity, big or small. Whether performing as a featured dancer on Netflix’s Archive 81 or dancing at a local library in Virginia, I approach each experience with the same intention: to leave an impact. As an artist, it’s my responsibility to create a feeling for two people or two million people. That commitment is what drives me in all aspects of my work.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is my relationship with God, my community, and my commitment to my mental health. My faith is at the center of my life and guides many of the decisions I make on a daily basis. My community of family, friends, and mentors grounds me by reminding me that I don’t have to navigate life alone.
Therapy has also been a transformative part of my journey. I began sessions three months after graduating college in 2023 and have remained consistent ever since. I always encourage others to try therapy because it has truly been a game changer for me. A special thank you to my therapist, Dr. Ukuku, who has walked alongside me and continuously poured into my life.
Overall, I strive to live a life full of joy, peace, and service. I believe the gifts we are blessed with are not meant only for ourselves, but to be shared with others as well.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_d0minga/?hl=en
- Other: TikTok: @domeniqueross
Image Credits
Bob Mackey Photography
Anna Tati Photography
Eric Blackwell
