I BELIEVE.
As a group we make decisions, try and fail, try and succeed, move, stand still, talk, laugh and cry, and finally produce work that gives an audience, opportunities for distinctive connections and their own personal interpretations.
BIOGRAPHY
From Meredith Rainey’s humble beginnings in Fort Lauderdale, a remarkable journey unfolded for this talented dancer and choreographer. Starting with a simple suggestion during his teenage years, he ventured into ballet and choreography, eventually making history as the first African American dancer in the Milwaukee Ballet. Alongside his performing career, while dancing for Pennsylvania Ballet, Ballet X, Dance Theatre of Harlem, and Complexions he delved into choreography, earning prestigious grants and fellowships from organizations like the PA Council on the Arts and winning accolades such as The Joyce Theater Foundation's The A.W.A.R.D. Show! Philadelphia. His commissioned works have graced stages worldwide, showcased by companies including Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Philadelphia Ballet (formally known as Pennsylvania Ballet), American Repertory Ballet, Ballet X, Brandywine Ballet, Delaware Ballet, Hubbard Street 2, Incolnballet, and Phrenic New Ballet.
Beyond Meredith’s choreographic achievements, he shares his expertise with aspiring dancers as an adjunct professor at Swarthmore College, Bryn Mawr College, and Drexel University. His journey, marked by resilience and dedication, serves as a testament to the transformative power of dance, leaving an enduring impact on the art form and inspiring future generations of performers and creators.
COMPETITIONS | FELLOWSHIPS GRANTS | RESIDENCIES
2023-24 Performance Garage "Dance Visions" Resident Artist
2018 Dance Fellowship: University of the Arts
2018 Life Experience Scholarship: University of the Arts
2014 Goucher College Residency
2011 The A.W.A.R.D Show! 2011: Philadelphia
2010 Swarthmore Project Residency at Swarthmore College
2010 Dance Advance Grant (The Pew Center for Arts and Heritage)
2008 CEC New Edge Residency
2006 Swarthmore Project Residency at Swarthmore College
2004 Pennsylvania Council on the Arts Fellowship
2002 Winner - Hubbard Street 2 Choreography Competition
2002 Independence Foundation Artist Fellowship
2002 Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation “Artist as Catalyst” Grant
1997 Seven Arts Magazine “Rising Star” Award
1996 Pennsylvania Council on the Arts Fellowship
For more detailed information please contact Meredith for a full CV. & Bio