Candace Erin Penn, known professionally as “CandaceErin,” is a native of Washington, D.C., who began her journey in dance at the age of three. She received formal training under esteemed instructors Adrian Bolton, Kathy Smith, and Sharon Mutts, which equipped her with exceptional skills in her craft. At just eight years old, CandaceErin was invited to join the “Tadpole” after-school program at Duke Ellington School of the Arts, under the guidance of Lynn Welters.

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In addition to her training, CandaceErin attended courses at Christian Dance Academy and First Class Dance Studio on weekends. By the age of 12, she was entrusted with an assistant teaching position, reflecting her growing expertise in dance. Seeking further challenges, Candace spent two years at Duke Ellington School of the Arts High School. During the summer of her freshman year, she was selected to attend the prestigious Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA) in Los Angeles, California, after which she made the decision to relocate to Los Angeles.

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While in Los Angeles, CandaceErin choreographed for the Malibu High School Dance Team and the LA Sparks “Old Skool Krew” . She also gained recognition through appearances on television sitcoms, including “That’s So Raven” and “8 Simple Rules.”

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Ultimately, CandaceErin chose to return to Washington, D.C., a city that deeply influenced her passion for dance. This move represented a reunion with the roots of her artistic journey.

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Candace Erin has since choreographed for various competitive cheer and dance teams in the DC Metro area, achieving the distinction of a 15-time award-winning choreographer. She has served as the Artistic Director, dance instructor, and choreographer at Christian Dance Academy. Additionally, CandaceErin has collaborated with several schools to develop and train students in ballet, modern, hip hop, and African dance. Her work has included partnerships with institutions such as Clinton Christian School, Dancing for His Glory Dance School, Excellence Christian School, First Class Dance Studio, Visions Performing Arts, Bishop McNamara’s African Dance Program & ZD Dance Academy among others. Notably, she was a featured guest instructor for the "Summer Spotlight" at the Kennedy Center and participated in the grand opening of the new Frederick Douglass Bridge in Southeast Washington D.C.

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Currently, CandaceErin holds the position of Creative and Artistic Director of Photography at Randolph Studios and is the founder of “Just Jete,” an active and dancewear line. Additionally, she works as a competitive choreographer and dance instructor at First Class Dance Studio, choreographer for The Conway Dance Academy and All Hail the Creatives artistic company, and guest instructor for the Howard University Bisonette dance ensemble, Zion Dance Ministry, and Fine Arts Director at Lanham Christian School.

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Passionate about faith, the arts, healthy living, and community engagement, CandaceErin looks forward to the opportunities that lie ahead .