Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor-michelle T
Hi Taylor-Michelle , thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a professional dancer first, model second. I started dancing at a very young age, I was a freestyle dancer. My foundation of dance was in krumping. Then in time, I started dancing in church. My dance teacher at the time was a trained dancer & watching her danced inspired me more to pursue dance. From there I went into modern, ballet, jazz, hip hop. I took various classes at Lula Washington but I was a part of a teen dance company called On The Edge (OTE) Dance Company. There began my theater background. It made me want to be on stage more. I became a well known praise dancer for churches in the Compton/LA area. Then came college & I studied in dance, which provoked my interest more in theater dance. After years of school, decided to take a gap year & go into the work field. There I began dancing in music videos, performing at the Long Beach Pride Festival, and taking my biggest gig at the time. Dancing in Disneyland’s California Adventure Viva Navidad parade as a samba dancer. I acquired that position through a dance company, ViverBrasil which I studied under them for about 4 years. I have performed for many communal shows through The CrayProject a Long Beach based platform for dancers of all backgrounds. Dancing with the CrayProject led me to my new found passion of Burlesque dancing and being free in my body, movements & sexuality. Having dance as a forefront to who I am today, I have always told myself & others “dance is my second voice when my first one is gone”.
Now modeling started at a young age as well. My uncle is a photographer, so whenever there’s a family event & he is test shooting. I’m always the model to help him. It made me become comfortable with being infront of the camera. I took pointers from watching every episode of ANTM. I decided one day that I wanted to make modeling a career & not just a hobby. So I began taking personal photo shoots building my portfolio. After some time, I had clothing boutiques asking me to model for them. I modeled in music videos. I did mostly editorial, nervous to step foot on the runway. Until 2022, I had my first runway debut. For the Ankara Fashion Show, feeling nervous that my walk would look amateur but I put my dance & model technique to good use. After that, the runway became my platform for modeling. I went on to do multiple fashion shows, which included participating in LAFW & being a brand ambassador for CherriCheeks swim attire. I have worked with several photographers, which led me to being in 2 art gallery exhibits & having my photo featured in the Hilton Anaheim. I want TM to be the next Tyra Banks.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has never been a smooth ride but has not been rough either. I would call my artistic journey, “TEACHING”. It taught me a lot about myself, who I am as a dancer & who I am as a model. Now, I will say at first it is hard because you want to jump into everything & be a part of so much. A lot of roles did not fit me or I did not fit the role. I soon had to realize that were not made for me & that’s okay. I took pride in those that felt good to me & were designed for me. Now I’m not saying I shy away from challenges, I live for the work. I learn to understand my work & am cautious to where I place myself & my work.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a professional dancer & model. Specializing in improv, burlesque, modern, methodist, and with some knowledge in Afro-Brazilian dance. I’m known for my dance technique that I’m creating called Migrations Technique. I also specialize in pose technique, coaching in a couple of model technique. I’m most proud of how far I have came in my craft & all the knowledge I have consumed throughout the years. I’m able to conform into my work or project that I am given. Like I had stated before I am a methodist worker, someone who really wears the shoes that they are given. I have been told, that when I walk into a room I exude confidence, I am a regal presence. I would never blend in, who I am allows me to always stand out.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
One thing I like best about my city has to be the creativity. We are the land where dreams come true. There’s always something new happening, there’s always something to motivate & inspire you.
What do I dislike about my city. It would have to be the parking lol. It is so crowded everywhere you go but hey everyone is chasing a dream.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: taylormchelle
- Other: Business email : [email protected]
Image Credits
@blainedeanmedia
@masterbrittphotos
