Nichelle Bane - Instructor

As a dancer, Nichelle was a member & soloist with the Civic Ballet of San Luis Obispo by the age of 14. In 1990 she left San Luis Obispo to become a line captain & featured dancer on Princess Cruise Line. Since moving to Los Angeles Nichelle studied under, and became an assistant to Doug Caldwell. “The Godfather of Lyrical” She assisted Doug in class and choreography for over 15 years. Nichelle co-choreographed the Trading Spaces commercial staring Paige Davis. Some of Nichelle’s other credits include Friends, Clueless, Austin Powers 2, Totally Blonde, Divine Design, and Her Last Chance MOW. She has appeared in commercials for Mervyns, McDonalds, Bacardi, and NBC. Nichelle has worked with the likes of Marguerite Derricks, Mia Michaels, & Vincent Paterson.

As the founder and artistic director of the LA based Reflections Dance Company. Nichelle has been bringing inspiration to the stage through all genres of dance. The choreography brought to life by Reflections crosses the boundaries from commercial to theatrical. Reflections has been invited to participate in many reputable events. The Mix Match dance festival, Dancing For NED, The Mc Callum Choreography Festival in Palm Springs (2011-2014) & presenting around Southern California.

Nichelle was brought on as resident choreographer for Astra Dance Theater in 2012. Where she helped bring unique dance shows to the stage. “Eleanora” an Edgar Allen Poe story & “The Cabinet Of Dr Caligari” a 1920 German silent horror film. Caligari was presented at the Booking Dance Festival, at Jazz at Lincoln Center NYC in 2015 and 2016. Nichelle continues to work with Astra creating new works for stage and screen.

Nichelle's passion for teaching and inspiring people shines through in her class, and choreography. Her choreography is influenced by her strong classical background of ballet, jazz, and lyrical, and incorporates the feeling and movement of today’s contemporary styles. Her theater dance class is full of energy. She brings an new twist on everything from classic to contemporary musicals. Her ballet classes respect the classical history of ballet while exploring the contemporary influences of today. Nichelle is always challenging herself to grow as an artist, and try new things. Thus her class is always fresh.

Nichelle is currently on faculty at studios in southern California, Act One Talent Competition, 8 National, and Motiv8 Dance Convention. She has taught all over the United States, and is an award-winning choreographer. Nichelle is founder and artistic director of the Los Angeles based Reflections Dance Company.