So You Think You Can Dance (season 2) Finalists - Donyelle Jones

Donyelle Jones

Donyelle Denise Jones is a dancer, choreographer, director, teacher, singer and actress. She was born July 3, 1979, in Los Angeles, California, to Charles and Mary Jones. She is the youngest of three children of a military family. Ms. Jones chose her dance career at the age of six. Her love of dance and interpreting stories through movement was cultivated by her mentor, Broderick Wilson, until his death October 10, 1997. Following Mr. Wilson's death, Ms. Jones began her formal dance training under the direction of Lara Arnaiz at Extensions Performing Arts Academy in Lancaster, California at the age of eighteen. She studied ballet, jazz, modern dance and hip hop as well as acting and sing. Currently, Ms. Jones is choreographer for the new spectacular Las Vegas Show at the Venetian starring Wayne Brady. She has been featured in musical theatre productions such as Hair, Nutcracker, and many more. Ms. Jones taught and directed the dance program at Palmdale High School for three years. Additionally, she taught at Orange County High School of the Arts. Ms. Jones teaches at Millennium Dance Complex, Debbie Allen Dance Academy, Debbie Reynolds Dance Studio, Gold's Gym in Hollywood, Extensions Performing Arts Academy and at various dance conventions in the United States as well as Canada. Additionally Ms. Jones has been featured in music videos, movies and award shows. She has worked with Missy Elliott, Shanice Wilson, The Game, The Black Eyed Peas, and Master P. Ms. Jones has appeared in movies such as Be Cool and Beauty Shop. Emphasizing body movement, use of space, facial expressions and costume design through creative choreography continue to define Ms. Jones passion. She competed on America's Best Dance Crew (Season 4) with her crew, Artistry in Motion, and they were eliminated in the second week of competition.