Ayanna Berkshire is an American actress, originally from a remote island chain in Washington State. Her Father, singer Floyd Cruse, was an activist, social worker and former Black Panther. Her mother, a Realtor, also runs a small organic island farm. Ayanna was just three years old when she began performing on stage as a dancer and young actress. It was her love of theater and French film in particular, which led her to move to Paris when she was 18 years old. She found work as a nanny by day and photo stylist by night in the Paris fashion industry; all the while attending school, studying the French language. Ayanna became a Resident Artist of Artist Repertory Theatre in 2016.
Ayanna lived on an island with 55 residents and went to school in a one room schoolhouse with 6 students.
Ayanna beat out a close friend for the role of Cora in "Twilight". The role was originally written as a love interest for Bellas dad, Police chief Charlie Swan (Played by Billy Burke).
Attended summer camp as a child, from age 7-15. She was fellow campers with "The Housebunny" star, Anna Faris.
Ayanna became a Resident Artist at [Portland Oregons] Artists Repertory Theatre in 2016.
