By PAM SCHIFF

On April 29 at Cranston East, the RI ChainBreakers performed their spring showcase entitled “We’re Still Here.”

The show highlighted performances by the junior and senior elite dancers.

According to their web site, RI ChainBreakers is a faith-based, community outreach performing arts movement.

“Our team travels throughout the region to perform pieces on worldly topics. Our mission is to spread hope and awareness for worldly issues that we face in our everyday community,” said Christa Thomas, the choreographer and director.

The group’s focus is to “break the chains” of stereotypes that most faith-based programs have.

The group performs live and does church performances, media visuals, nonprofit fundraising, a master class and competitive dance.

One of their highlight performances was in November 2021, when they danced at the RI State House Homeless Memorial Service.

RI ChainBreakers originated at New Beginnings Christian Church in Cranston.

A year later the congregation came to an end and RICB went independent.

“The girls were training outside in parks and fundraising money through performances, bake sales, selling merchandise to afford studio time. After a year of networking and hard work; RICB got their 501c3 and started renting a studio,” said Thomas.

The children train in weekly classes in ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, jazz, etc. The team focuses on community outreach performances that help spread awareness and or raise money for other inner city nonprofits.

The roster of dancers include Junior Captain Tonisha Thomspson, Kyani Huertas, Suliany Santiago, Karla Medrano, Tracey Leone. Seniors include Ariana Nolasco, Arianna Benoit, Alisha Familia, Asialiah Delgado.

To learn more about the group, visit their Instagram @ri.chainbreakers or facebook.com/RI.ChainBreakers.