Rodney Reiner, dancer and former Tennessee Arts Commission official, dies

From Tennessee Arts Commission –

Rodney Frank Reiner, a dancer, director, and former Assistant Director of the Tennessee Arts Commission who had a significant impact on the state’s performing arts, died Sunday. He was 71.

Reiner, who died in Franklin, had a long and influential career in Tennessee’s arts scene. He first joined the Tennessee Arts Commission in 1983, serving as the Director of Performing Arts until 1991. He later rejoined the commission and retired as its Assistant Director.

His career in Tennessee began as a creative consultant for Opryland USA. Reiner’s work extended to choreography for nationally televised specials for the Country Music Association. He choreographed award-winning music videos such as Hank Williams, Jr.’s “All My Rowdy Friends” and Crystal Gayle’s “Nobody Wants to be Alone.” He also made television appearances alongside country music icons Dolly Parton and Garth Brooks.

A St. Louis native and graduate of Webster University, Reiner was a seasoned performer. He appeared in more than 50 Actors’ Equity productions, including “Cabaret” and “Funny Girl,” and in pre-Broadway tours of “Hellzapoppin'” with Jerry Lewis and “Camelot” with Rock Hudson.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, August 29, 2025 at Holy Name Catholic Church in Nashville. The burial will take place in St. Louis at a later date.

Link to obituary: https://www.harpethhills.com/obituaries/rodney-reiner