Meet Christen Devani of Detroit

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christen Devani.

Christen, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m 17 years old and known as Detroit’s Very Own Award-Winning Ballerina. I started dancing at just two years old, and over time it became more than a hobby, it became my passion and purpose. I’ve trained in ballet, contemporary, jazz, modern, tap, and hip hop, and I attend Cass Technical High School, where I was recently named President of the Dance Workshop. I also train at The Zone Dance Center and earned a scholarship to Debbie Allen’s Dance Academy, where I completed the Summer Intensive in Los Angeles. Dance has shaped who I am and continues to push me to grow as both an artist and a leader.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My dance journey hasn’t always been easy. Over the years, I’ve faced multiple injuries that kept me from dancing, and each time I had to find the strength to rebuild and keep going. One of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made was leaving the studio I’d been at since I was eight years old. It was home for so long, but I knew I had to make a change to continue growing. I’ve also experienced moments of feeling left out since I no longer compete like some of my friends or being viewed differently because of it, but I’ve learned to stay focused on my own growth and purpose.

Early in my journey, I attended a studio where I experienced racism, a few years later, I auditioned for The Nutcracker with an outside company was told I couldn’t perform in a production of because I had long braids. Both moments were painful, but they taught me to stand firm in my identity and never apologize for who I am. I’ve also had to balance dance, academics, and my personal life as a teenager, often missing out on typical fun because I had rehearsals or performances. One of the hardest days of my life was learning that my grandmother had passed away while I was at dance practice, yet I still had to find the strength to keep going and perform through my pain.

Through all of it, I’ve learned that dance isn’t just movement, it’s healing, discipline, and perseverance. Every setback, every loss, and every moment of doubt has shaped me into the dancer and young lady I am today.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a Dancer, I focus on using movement to connect, celebrate, and inspire. I perform across multiple styles; ballet, contemporary, jazz, modern, tap, and hip hop & I love bringing dance beyond the stage and into everyday spaces. Known as “Detroit’s Very Own Award-Winning Ballerina” sets me apart & I’ve had the opportunity to perform at weddings, children’s birthday celebrations, baby showers, women’s empowerment events, and community expos, often as a “Flowerina” in weddings, where I bring a soft, elegant presence to the ceremony.

I’m passionate about showing that dance can tell stories and create moments of joy anywhere, not just in traditional theaters. Whether I’m performing for a large audience or a small, intimate event, my goal is always the same: to leave people feeling inspired, connected, and uplifted through the art of dance.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5–10 years, I hope to see the dance industry becoming more diverse, inclusive, and rooted in community. As a high school senior planning to major in dance and further my training in college, I hope to join a professional company during or after my college journey. I know I can’t dance forever, but seeing legends like Debbie Allen still teaching and performing at 75 reminds me that passion doesn’t have an expiration date. I want to dance for as long as my body allows and continue sharing my love for the art in every way possible.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.christendevani.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christen_devani
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dancingdevani
• Other: linktr.ee/christendevani