CiCi Kelley: Dancing Queen

Choreography: The art of symbolically representing dancing.

Atlanta native CiCi Kelley understands that hard work and determination are the keys to longevity in an industry that is very demanding both mentally and physically.

When music lovers see their favorite recording artists do choreographed moves, dances or routines, CiCi is the brain behind-the-scenes who helps propel artists to the next level in entertainment. Her clients achieve memorable performances that reflects the emotions associated with the song. She has had the privilege to work with Beyonce, Tina Turner, Outkast, The Fugees, Wyclef Jean, Farnsworth Bentley, Musiq, Tyler Perry and A Tribe
Called Quest, just to name a few.

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with CiCi Kelley to discuss her career in choreography from where it all began to the tremendous amount of success she now experiences.

To many you are known as CiCi, what is that short for?
Yes, CiCi is short for Cicely.

Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Atlanta, GA. I’m a “Georgia Peach” through and through.

Where did you train to dance and why in that city?
I was trained in Atlanta by some of the most amazing teachers and professionals in the industry. I had old school training. My teachers demanded a lot from me, especially when they noticed my drive and talent. I then continued my training in Philadelphia at the University of the Arts. That school, along with the city itself, truly perfected my craft and exposed me to so many different genres of dance. Philly also helped to develop me as choreographer as well.

What do you love about dancing?
What I love about dancing is the fact that it gives me the space to be free. I can channel all of my emotions through my craft. When I’m feeling bad and can not figure out the words to express myself, I do it through dance. It’s truly remarkable when someone can understand your emotions through your movements. Dance is a beautiful, universal language.

How long have you been in the entertainment industry?
I have been in entertainment industry for a little over ten years now. I started as a freshman in high school. My first big break was when I was 16 and got the opportunity to dance for Tina Turner at the Super Bowl. The “bug” bit me hard after that!

Where can we view your body of work?
My work can actually be viewed on my website www.cicikelley.com. Currently, I have two ‘MADE’ shows running on MTV, and of course you can watch the music videos I’ve worked on anytime. YouTube!

What inspires you to stay focused on your goals?
My inspiration comes from various aspects of my life. I’ve learned that I go through phases within my actual artistry. For example, currently, everything I choreograph, I want it to be from a more emotional standpoint. I’m not using too many steps, just simple movements that are true to the intended emotion. I also like telling stories with my creations. To me, it keeps the choreography fresh, and makes it mean so much more.

When you are having a not-so-good day, what do you do?
When I have one of “those” days I really like to go into a big open space, turn on any music that relates to my mood and lie down in the middle of the floor with the music blasting. I don’t know why, but it helps to center me and bring me back to one.

Are you single, married or dating? If single, is this by choice and why?
I am dating someone that I truly care about. We are both extremely goal oriented so it helps because we really push one another to succeed. It also helps that he is not in my industry and does something totally opposite. It gives me a sense of balance in this fickle environment called dance, LOL.

What’s next for you?
Same thing I do every night, try to take over the world!” No, I’m just kidding. I have noticed within this year that I have a strong desire to produce. I own a production company, CK Productions, LLC. I use this company as an outlet to materialize all of the ideas I have in my busy little head. I truly enjoy watching my thoughts transform into realities, so I wanted to share that with others and give back to the community as well. This year we held our 2nd annual choreographer’s showcase entitled, “Phazes of Love”. The showcase is major platform for both the noticed and unnoticed choreographer and is also a benefit for charity. This year proceeds went to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America as well as Project Success of the 100 Black Men of Atlanta. We gave $2000.00 in donations this year and hope to give even more next year!

Name 5 Things you are grateful for?
I am grateful for having favor from God, humility, my lovely, irreplaceable parents, wonderful support systems within my management, Warren Thomas and Aris Golemi and passion.

What are some pointers for dancers wanting to break into the industry?
Some pointers I always give to dancers trying to break through are: Get into as many classes as you can, learn all genres of dance and never stop yearning for growth.

What is your favorite style of dance?
My favorite dance style has a tendency to change depending on my mood. In no particular order jazz, hip-hop and contemporary are all at the top of my list.

What is your favorite quote you live by?
“Those who dance are considered stupid by those who cannot hear the music” -The Late George Carlin.

Story by Omari J. Faulkner
Photography by Jerris Madison for www.jerrismadison.com