Meet Charli Michelé

Today we’d like to introduce you to Charli Michelé.

Charli, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Hello! My name is Charli Michelé and I am a plus-size dancer and choreographer here in Los Angeles. I’m originally from San Jose, California I moved out here when I was nine years old to pursue the entertainment business. Previously in the bay area, I started off doing pageants and dancing and when moving to LA, I took up acting as well. I started training at the Debbie Allen Dance Academy for ten years when I reached high school, I was part of my Hip Hop Team and varsity dance team as well. After graduating, I joined the Dance industry and got an agent; however, I wasn’t very successful with them I started booking more jobs once I was able to part ways with them and start self-booking. Since then, I’ve become the head coach for the Hip Hop Team at Calabasas high school, a competition team staff member Elite Dance Center, I’ve also performed for Amber Rose and Lizzo. I hope to continue dancing and choreograph for an artist soon!

Great, 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?
My road to being a dancer has been a struggle. Being plus size in this industry is constantly a fight. Whether it be for representation, self love, or being the best version of myself. However, being a plus size teacher and choreographer has been rewarding, to say the least. I love being able to encourage and inspire the younger generation to accept themselves and push their boundaries through movement.

I try my best to instill self-confidence within the younger generation even though it’s very difficult with social media nowadays, I try to be my best true self through social media outlets.

We’d love to hear more about your work.
I’m also a tap dancer! I am most known for doing Hip Hop; however, I am also a tap-dancer, and I have been trained and all styles from jazz ballet to flamenco and contemporary. I am most proud of my team and the dancers I’ve created. At Calabasas high school, I feel like I’ve built a safe space and program for dancers of color and all walks of life to come and dance! At Elite Dance Center, I’m most proud of my student’s growth and placements with their competition routines. I feel like we strive for success and excellence!

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I feel like it’s most important to be authentic and genuine and real. I am very honest and calm and genuine when I speak to others and when I teach my dance classes. Although I am competitive, I try to do it in the most healthy fun way. When I take my kids to competition, although I want us to do our best, I also make it important to know their building memories and having a good time as well.

Contact Info:

• Email: charli.dancer94@yahoo.com
• Instagram: @chalayymichele

Image Credit:
Bella
Ruthintruth
Vida Carson

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