Hey there! I’m Aaliyah Smith, a DFW-based performer with a love and passion for all things art. I was born and raised in Texas by my incredible Belizean mother, whose culture & strength has deeply influenced who I am., & makes me proud to say I am African American & Hispanic. Growing up, I was involved in the arts in some capacity, either through painting, instruments, or choir. I didn’t discover theatre until my middle school dream of being a volleyball player was crushed after I didn’t make the team. I was asked to audition for the school musical Hairspray, and fell in love with the art of theatre ever since.

I graduated the University of Texas at Arlington with a BFA Musical Theatre and Dance Minor in May 2024. Throughout my theatre journey, I have had many opportunities to not only perform onstage but also work in other roles such as costuming, stage managing, and choreography. Onstage, I have been blessed with the opportunity to perform professionally with DFW Theatres: Lyric Stage, Firehouse, & Bishop Theatre Arts Center. During my BFA I loved being a part of Maverick Dance Company, where I have performed many pieces & pursued my passion for choreography, the two pieces being titled “The Butterfly Effect” & “Bleeding Oceans, Release Freedom”. From there, I was able to explore the role of Dance Captain at Firehouse. Throughout my 8 years of education in theatre, I have had wonderful mentors and professors who pushed me in all areas to be curious & collaborative and reminded me consistently to find the joy and the play.

Besides performing, teaching kids the art of theatre fills my soul. I have been a teacher, choreographer, assistant director, & stage manager for Time to Shine Performing Arts, a place where every student has their moment to shine. Above all, my heart belongs to sharing a story in hopes of connecting with people. I aim to create meaningful art that leaves a positive impact on the viewer & sparks thoughtful reflection, and spreading a little sunshine along the way. In my spare time, you can catch me with a coffee in hand, rewatching Friends (for the 100th time), plunking out a song on the guitar, watching a sunset, laughing with friends, or driving with the windows down & the music up.