Aaryanna Henry

Hometown: Durham, NC

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Applied Dance and Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Graduation Year: 2024

How did you become interested in dance? 
I started dancing when I was eight years old at Nina’s School of Dance in Durham and joined the company when I was nine. I danced at Nina’s until I graduated in 2020 (10 years total), training in jazz, ballet, tap, and modern, but mostly contemporary. I also danced in high school and joined the company class my sophomore year. I was exposed to more modern and hip-hop dance styles here. Dancing both at my high school and in the dance company really helped to diversify my dance style range.

What kind of career do you hope to have?
I hope to join a dance company post-graduation and teach and choreograph at a dance studio. I am also pursuing a major in psychology and hope to become a neuropsychologist. I may potentially combine the two and explore dance therapy as a career path, but I am open to whatever direction life takes me! 

What is your favorite thing about the Department of Dance?
My favorite thing about Charlotte’s dance department is the numerous opportunities we have as performers and artists to gain more experience in the industry. The Range of Motion dance organization has encouraged a lot of my growth this semester along with the community of dancers and faculty in the dance department that have worked alongside me to help me grow into the dancer I am today. I have grown so much this year alone at UNC Charlotte and cannot wait to see where the next two years take me.  

Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?
This past semester, I participated in the Loose Leaves dance showcase in Uptown Charlotte in a piece choreographed by an alumnus and co-founder of the Range of Motion dance organization, Reneé Welsh-Noel. I was able to perform in the Duke Ellington’s Sacred Concerts event at Queens University of Charlotte this past April and had the opportunity to perform at a local art gallery called Space 212, performing the same piece by Reneé Welsh-Noel and a trio by graduating senior Rachel Moberg. 

When you are not in class, studying, working, or rehearsing, what do you like to do for fun?
For fun, I love drawing, going to church, exploring Charlotte with my friends, and spending time with my family.