Meet Cherese Chambers Bereal of Getmebodieddancefit in North Hollywood

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cherese Chambers Bereal.

Cherese, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am originally from South Philadelphia. The city of Brotherly Love.

Growing up in the “Inner City” gave me some type of supernatural strength. Philly is a hard city. You’re taught at an early age to be tough. You learn to fight, run, jump, and hide (lol) all at the same time. That’s probably why I love fitness and dance so much.

I was forced at an early age to be physical. I had to stay out and away from trouble. When you grew up in my environment, you were constantly surrounded with violence. I thank God that my mom, a single mother of 4, was able to send me to a Performing Arts School (PBPAC) where I studied dance, drama, and voice. Point Breeze Performing Arts was a high-performance school. Creative Director, Anthony Burrell, who has choreographed for many amazing celebrity artist attended there as well. (Yup I’m bragging !) It was then that I knew that I had a love for the acting, dance, and music. I was unable to complete my program because trouble just seemed to follow me and I was now entering a faze of life called “Foster Care”.

I moved from Philly to a small town called Easton Pa. It was a good move for me because I needed to be in a different environment. I started to explore possibilities. I wanted to see and do more. One day, I decided to take a leap of faith and I started acting and dancing in music videos, tv shows, and film. When I got called to sit in with Jlo as a background actor, you couldn’t tell me anything! People started noticing me after that and complimenting me abundantly so my confidence began to grow and I said maybe I could really do this professionally. I wanted to go to another level. I decided I’m going to “Hollywood”.

I packed my bags and I relocated from Philadelphia to Los Angeles. I immediately started working on videos with artists like Snoop, Jamie Fox, Kanye West, Ciara, and 50 Cent. Being as though I am a curvy girl, I didn’t want to get typecast so I started going into a different direction seeking after more acting parts. I started to get regular work on shows like Greys Anatomy, New Girl, and CSI. I worked as Oprah Winfrey body double as well. That was one of my favorite jobs. I really needed to pay this LA rent (meaning – hustle…hustle HARD) so I decided to go for more lead roles. I landed lead in a national commercial with Kobe & Lebron. I knew that I could not go backwards. I was now introduced to residual income allowing me to become a member of SAG-AFTRA…I’ll just say No More Roommates! I am now also a member of The Recording Academy thanks to my husband Charlie Bereal. But once those commercial checks stop, what do you do? I needed to create my own. I tapped into my first love dance choreography. Not having direction or an agent caused inconsistency, let downs. These things can be very frustrating, disappointing, and discouraging. Yet quitting was not an option. I started my own dance company (Getmebodieddancefit.com) focusing on mind, body, and soul. I wanted to expand my talent while encouraging and influencing people through dance movement. We push through adversities while dancing to your favorite hits!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
No, it hasn’t been. I struggled early in my career with my weight. I was told that I was to big to be a dancer. I believed it. I now know that was a lie! We had to changed that and stop the body shaming. I wish that I didn’t allow my insecurities to get in the way. I struggled with lack of support, financially, feeling alone, and being away from everyone you’ve ever known. Everyone doesn’t see the vision until you prove it. Having a good support system is very important. I thank God for all the love & support that I have now in my adult life.

With the recent loss of icon Kobe Bryant, I’ve really reflected on my big break of being a major player in the Kobe vs Lebron Vitamin Water commercial. It was an exciting time for me and my support system. I hold it even closer to my heart and will forever cherish those memories with an even deeper meaning and appreciation of my loved ones.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Getmebodieddancefit. – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
GMBDF is a hip hop dance cardio class. You sweat and dance non stop for one hour. You can sip some water here and there. It’s upbeat, it’s funk and fun. I’ve seen people walk away rejuvenated. I specialize in dance training. I teach group classes, workshops, and privates. The thing that sets me apart is my ability to turn the most uncoordinated, self-conscious person into the most confident dancer on and off the dance floor.

Since starting GMBDF, I’ve had the honor and pleasure of choreographing and teaching at UCLA, LAUSD, Downtown Dance & Movement, LA Live Arts, The Sweat Spot, Evolution, and YMCA’s all around Los Angeles. I’ve even featured in The LA Times.

My company started with two students and my last workshop had an attendance of 100 students. I am most proud of one an avid student of mine, telling me that my class helped her beat cancer. That created a beautiful bond between the two of us. My son Aaden Bereal featured in Beyonce Formation video. (I’m super proud of him) Thus far throughout my dance journey, I’ve had the experience of working with Fox, Netflix, BET, and MTV. Choreography has become my passion and this passion continues to grow and to become more intriguing, exhilarating and fulfilling, each day. Creating youth programs, and working on Television & Film, stage plays, music videos, the possibilities are endless. I am so excited for what the future will bring!

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I use live instruments in my classes. I’m looking forward to producing a live show. I’m writing a dance short film. I’m hoping to meet more creatives and come together collectively. We need more togetherness! I recently gave birth to a beautiful daughter. She has without doubt been the most amazing change in my world. I will be introducing Mommy & Me classes.

Pricing:

• Dance workshops $20
• Privates $50-$75
• Group Classes $15-25

Contact Info:

• Website: www.getmebodieddancefit.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @iamcherese @getmebodieddancefit

Image Credit:
Headshot by Bazille Photography & Ursula Simpson

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