In recognition of her crucial role in leading the St Mark’s Dance Studio for many years, Rosetta Brooks has been named Director, Emerita. Her lifelong dedication to dance, and her role over decades in teaching generations of students have shaped the Studio as it is today. In her new position, she will continue to provide teaching and mentoring to students.

Rosie, as she is fondly known, is widely respected in the dance community, especially on Capitol Hill. In 2009 her distinguished service was acknowledged with a Community Achievement Award from the Capitol Hill Community Foundation. 

Rosetta Brooks is a native Washingtonian and joined the St. Mark’s Dance Company in October 1964 performing in and around the Washington, DC area. In 1999 she became the Artistic Director after the death of the Founder, Mary L. Craighill. Rosie has taught ballet with over twenty grants from the Capitol Hill Community Foundation where she received an achievement award for distinguished service in the community in 2009. She has choreographed for several productions, e.g., Oklahoma and Little Mermaid for the St. Mark’s Players.

Rosie served as a dance consultant at the Suitland High School for the Arts, and as a guest instructor at the Jones & Haywood School of Dance. In addition, she taught for over 20 years at St. Peters on Capitol Hill and 10 years for the KIPP/DC Key Academy.

Rosie studied and trained with Florence Blackwell, Oleg Tupine, Caroline Tate, Ethel Butler, and Kathryn Mullowny. She attended Howard University and as of 2023 has been at St. Mark’s Dance Studio for 59 years.