Gold Star Feature: Adrien Vincent James from The Washington Ballet

Adrian Vincent James is a Washington, DC native whose passion for the arts began in 1970 under the guidance of director Mike Malone. A former fashion model turned dance director, Adrian’s talent and dedication earned him scholarships to the Jones-Haywood School of Ballet, American Ballet Theatre School, Dance Theatre of Harlem, and Alvin Ailey American Dance Center. 

Adrian made history as the first African American selected to dance with Houston Ballet and later earned a B.F.A. in Drama with a concentration in Directing from Howard University and an M.A. in Performing Arts – Dance from American University. He has taught, choreographed, and directed at institutions including the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, Howard University, Suitland High School, and currently teaches at The Washington School of Ballet at THEARC. 

Through both dance and photography, Adrian continues to create powerful art that inspires and uplifts. His legacy is one of breaking barriers, mentoring young artists, and celebrating the beauty of movement.