About Me
Educator. Choreographer. Creative.
Kelley, a dynamic force in the world of performance arts, has etched her presence across diverse stages, be it in theaters, studios, concert venues, or even on the vibrant canvas of a football field. Hailing from Atlanta, GA and honing her skills under the tutelage of renowned dance educators at Philadelphia’s University of the Arts, she has crafted a versatile career that transcends the boundaries of dance genres and extends into various industries. From the realm of sports to the dynamic arena of advertising and the captivating world of entertainment, Kelley's influence resonates far and wide.
Kelley stands at the pinnacle of achievement, boasting an impressive array of accomplishments that have captivated audiences globally. Her dance prowess has not only entertained audiences around the world but has also garnered recognition on prestigious platforms. Notably, Kelley's choreography and captivating performances have graced the stage during halftime entertainment for the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders, in addition to being prominently featured in national commercials for The Georgia Lottery, Apple Beats headphones, and The General Car Insurance commercials featuring Shaquille O’Neal. Her creative genius extends beyond sports, with credits including choreography for the Fugees European tour, Musiq Soulchild's Stir the Senses tour, and Toni Braxton's 2010 tour and television appearances.
Georgia Lottery Commercial | Movement Coach
Back Stage For BOLDEN | Co-Choreographer + Featured Dancer
Kelley's dance journey reached iconic heights as she shared the stage with Beyoncé, leaving an indelible mark in the Radio City Music Hall stage. Her participation in Beyoncé's "Get Me Bodied" music video and the electrifying performance of the chart-topping "Single Ladies" at the 2009 MTV VMAs solidified Kelley's presence among the elite in the world of dance.
CiCi's artistic footprint extends beyond the confines of the dance floor, gracing theatrical stages across the United States in a myriad of productions. Noteworthy among these are captivating performances in acclaimed stage shows such as "The Wilson Pickett Project," "The Satin Dolls: A Duke Ellington Review," and Je’Caryaous Johnson's spectacular "BAPS Live: The Musical." CiCi's talent caught the discerning eye of film director Jon Turtletaub, who entrusted her with dance directions for the multiple award winning actor Morgan Freeman in the blockbuster hit "Last Vegas" and the film "BOLDEN," directed by Dan Pritzker. Kelley's artistic contributions can also be noted in the Netflix movie "The Outlaws," featuring a star-studded cast including Pierce Brosnan, Nina Dobrev, and Adam DeVine. In each endeavor, CiCi's work resonates with a distinctive blend of creativity and precision, leaving an indelible mark on both stage and screen.
CiCi's performance as a dancer, allowed her opportunities to dance alongside some of the music industries biggest stars! Her dynamic presence is showcased in the music video for hip-hop pioneer LL Cool J's "Control Myself," featuring Jennifer Lopez, as well as in the Outkast music video for "Ghetto Music." CiCi's choreography prowess takes center stage on the small screen, having been featured on MTV's Emmy Award-winning series, "MTV MADE." Additionally, her skills shine in the competitive realm through MTV MADE's "Head-to-Head Hip Hop Challenge," solidifying CiCi's reputation as a versatile and impactful force in the world of dance and entertainment.
Kelley's commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond the stage, as she embraces her philanthropic role in nurturing the next generation of dancers through (former) “The DARE DREAM DANCE Project," a C4 Atlanta fiscally sponsored initiative. In this transformative endeavor, Kelley shapes the future of aspiring young dancers, laying the foundation for successful careers in the world of dance.
At the heart of this initiative is Kelley's dedication to providing comprehensive commercial dance education, rooted in classical foundations, aimed at cultivating world-class artists. The results speak volumes, with students not only gaining valuable SAG-AFTRA credits but also securing over $20,000 in dance scholarships and professional work opportunities. Within the DARE DREAM DANCE framework, Kelley introduces the Trifecta scholarship, a beacon of support for exceptionally talented and ambitious young dancers. This scholarship opens doors for them to refine their craft and pursue their dreams in the three major dance hubs: Atlanta, New York, and Los Angeles. Kelley's philanthropic endeavors empower the next generation, ensuring that their journey in dance is marked by excellence, opportunity, and the fulfillment of their artistic aspirations.
Turn It Up Dance Challenge Master Teacher
King Of Prussia, PA
Spelman Dance Theatre Fall Concert 2023
"On My"
Spelman College
Ms. Kelley is a distinguished alumna holding a BA in Dance Performance & Choreography from Spelman College, a professional certification in Trauma & Resilience informed Pedagogy for College Student Wellbeing from Florida State University, Women In Leadership from Emory University (completion November 2024), and a Masters in Fine Arts from the University of the Arts, where she further honed her scholarship & research. Beyond the accolades of placing her choreography on numerous stages, film productions, and with various artists, Kelley is deeply committed to shaping the future of dance. Her specific research interest dive deep into the theory of Diasporic Spidering, and the kinship of Black Womanhood through griot communication and Sankofa theory & practice.
Currently serving as a Senior Lecturer, First Year Advisor, and the Director of Spelman Dance Theatre, she plays a pivotal role at her alma mater, Spelman College—recognized as the #1 HBCU in the country. In the Department of Dance Performance & Choreography, Kelley imparts her wealth of knowledge and experience to eager dance students, contributing to their growth and development. Through her multifaceted roles,
Ms. Kelley not only continues to excel in the world of dance but also invests in the education and mentorship of the next generation of performers at the esteemed Spelman College & beyond.
SPELMAN DANCE THEATRe
Acknowledgments | Affiliations
Pauline E.
Drake
Scholar
Spelman
KONTROL Magazine
Choreographer
Of The
Year
2013
Life
Experience & Dance
Fellowship
UArts
Emory University Professional Certification
Women in Leadership: Driving Transformation Thorough Innovation & Resilience
Florida State University Professional Certification
College Student Wellbeing Trauma & Resilience
2023 Bronze Lens Film Festival Selected Filmmaker:
That's My Phenotype!
Spelman College Jaguarettes Dance Team
Head Coach
KONTROL Magazine Choreographer of The year 2013
Honored & selected amongst a panel of peers. Atlanta, GA
Pauline E. Drake Scholar Spelman College +
Faculty Member since 2017
Following the 6 women in my family as a legacy at Spelman College
Lifetime Experience & Dance Fellowship Recipient The University Of The Arts
Received a 20K scholarship to complete my Masters In Fine Arts. Philadelphia, PA
(TBADC) The Black Artists Dance Collective Board Member
Collegiate 100 Advisor
DEGAS Board Member
SAG-AFTRA
Universal Dance Alliance Certified Judge
Celebration Of Dance Awards selection panel committee member.
C4 Atlanta Arts Force Member
Xcel Talent Agency
Spelman College
Morehouse College
The University Of The Arts
Atlanta Public Schools
Woodward Academy
National Black Arts Festival (NBAF)
Atlanta Hawks Cheerleaders
Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders
Georgia Lottery
Georgia Production Partnership
Turn It Up Dance Challenge Competition Adjudicator & Master Instructor