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- Portfolio | Cecily Ilana
Cecily Ilana - performance artist, dancer, and choreographer. Portfolio Past and current projects I have produced, created, or been featured on. YELLOW FLICKER BEAT 2017 A Hunger Games inspired dance and performance art film which tells the story of breaking free from bondage and manipulation. (Featuring illusionist Mathew DiLorenzo.) BLACKOUT 2018 A dance film featuring improvised dancing and a simple message based on Matthew 5:16. 2018 MORE A dance and performance art film and abstract representation of the powerful impact collaboration and evangelism can have when properly utilized. SCREAM (for ice cream) 2018 A performance art film inspired by the aesthetic and general storyline of vintage Hollywood cinema designed to subvert expectations. CEMETERY 2018 A performance art film with a haunting moral story of the perils that lie beyond the grave for those who refuse to spend their resources (time, wealth, etc) wisely while actually alive! Ever Present Epochs 2020-2021 A collection of artistic short films based on viewing someone's life from just a very short moment in time. COFFEE SONG 2026 This fun and fast-paced 'espresso-shot' of a dance number is sure to please! Original choreography and performance by Cecily Ilana. (style: Musical Theater Jazz and Tap)
- Cecily Ilana | Dance Teacher | Sarasota, FL, USA
Performance artist, dance teacher, and choreographer offering dance classes in tap, contemporary, hip hop, and dance tricks. Private lessons and custom choreography available for students, events, and music videos. PERFORMER PERFORMER PERFORMER PERFORMER Raised in an environment shaped by music, narrative, and visual creation. Performing on stage and formally trained in dance and performance arts from the age of five. A creative practice built around the desire to present work that is tangible, human, and emotionally present. About The Artist CHOREOGRAPHER CHOREOGRAPHER CHOREOGRAPHER CHOREOGRAPHER Character-led, experimental performance art pieces rooted in storytelling and communicated through movement. View Full Portfolio Dance-driven, narrative work that is character-led, experimental, and rooted in storytelling—exploring the complexity of human emotion through movement-based performance to invite multiple interpretations. Inspired by both historical and contemporary artists, as well as personal faith and life experience to produce original dance films and multimedia works, as well as collaborating with clients to bring live performance art to their events and shows. View Portfolio EDUCATOR EDUCATOR EDUCATOR EDUCATOR Instruction designed to train the whole artist—combining technical development with artistic exploration. Providing options for group training, private lessons, and choreography coaching. Coming alongside young dancers in their artistic journeys. Discover Training Options Let's Connect Whether you are looking for a custom choreographed piece for a live event or creative project, or seeking supportive, high-level dance instruction and mentorship, I would love to connect with you today. Send me a message so we can chat! First name* Last name* Email* Write a message* Submit PORTFOLIO View Full Portfolio SOCIALS @cecilyilana Load more
- Bookings | Cecily Ilana
Book with Cecily Ilana today! Dance classes, private dance lessons, and custom choreography in Sarasota, FL. Bookings Quick Register for Group Classes Today Quick Register Tap 1, 2/3, 4 Contemporary 1/2, 3, 4 Hip Hop Dance Ensemble Musical Theater (choreographer) Fusion Tricks (turns, leaps, tricks) Private Lesson & Choreography Inquiries I would very much like to discuss what specifically you are looking for and how I may be able to help! I have worked on many projects from live musical/play productions, personal one on one lessons as well as group teaching, live performance art installations for church events, and narrative, art, and dance/music films. I am always looking for new creative challenges and how I can help fellow artists with similar mission and vision. Reach out today and let's chat about creating something impactful together! Send me a message so we can chat! First name* Last name* Email* Write a message* Submit
- Let's Connect | Cecily Ilana
Contact Cecily Ilana directly regarding group dance classes, private dance lessons, and custom choreography. Let's Connect! Interested in custom choreography or a performance art installation piece? Looking for group class instruction in dance? In search of one-on-one training to further personal growth in strength, health, and artistry? Let's connect and see if my work might be a good fit for what you are looking for. Contact Cecily Email cecilyilana@gmail.com Send me a message so we can chat! First name* Last name* Email* Write a message* Submit FEELING SOCIAL? Fresh inspiration delivered directly to your inbox. Not your average mailing list. COMING SOON.
- CASTING CALL | Cecily Ilana
Dance Film Casting Call An Independant Project Choregraphed by Cecily Ilana Song: This is What Autumn Feels Like (JVKE) CAST SIZE: 6-8 (ages 10+) PROJECT TYPE: Independent dance film COMPENSATION: Unpaid / volunteer artistic project LOCATION: Sarasota, FL STYLES: Contemporary / Fusion SUBMISSION DEADLINE: October 10, 2026 (11:59pm EST) Song : this is what Autumn feels like by JVKE REHEARSALS: TBD (potentially Wed, Fri, or Sat afternoon/evenings) FILMING: 1-2 days [Likely in Early November] Expected Commitment : Attend all rehearsals and filming day(s). Exact rehearsal and filming dates will be established with selected dancers before participation is confirmed. ABOUT THE PROJECT I am currently creating a small independent dance film and am looking for a select group of dancers to bring it to life. This is a passion project that I’m creating independently with a small cast and collaborative creative team. I’m looking for dancers in the Sarasota, FL area who are technically strong, expressive performers, and who are excited about creating something together. The project will involve learning and rehearsing original choreography, working with other dancers, and filming the finished work on location (outdoor). This is an unpaid artistic project. While there is no financial compensation, participating dancers will receive credit for their work and a finished film that they can share as part of their artistic portfolio, in addition to the experience of being part of the project. Because the cast will be small, dancers will be selected based on both technical ability as well as how their individual movement quality and presence fit the vision of the film. What I'm looking for: I’m interested in dancers who demonstrate: Strong technical training and body/spacial awareness Musicality and attention to detail Ability to learn and retain choreography quickly Strong performance quality and artistic expression Versatility and adaptability A collaborative attitude Professionalism, reliability, and willingness to take direction Previous experience performing for camera is welcome, but is not required. Most importantly, I’m looking for dancers who are excited to create, perform, and contribute to a collaborative artistic project. AUDITION REQUIREMENTS Please carefully read all above information before submitting a self tape video that matches all listed requirements along with the below "audition form." (This video will determine who is invited to attend the final round of in-person auditions. ) Self Tape Requirements: Please film horizontally. (1920x1080 aspect ratio) Keep your entire body visible throughout the combination. Make sure your space is well lit and the choreography is easy to see. Please submit one continuous take. (No edits or cuts of footage) You may record the combination as many times as you’d like before submitting your final take. A phone recording is completely fine. You do not need professional filming equipment. The quality of the recording will not be evaluated as a measure of your dancing. The purpose is simply to allow me to clearly see your movement and performance. Optional If you have existing dance footage or a reel that you’d like me to see, you are welcome to include a link to your reel or performance footage. (Please do not feel that you need to create a separate professional reel specifically for this audition.) CHOREOGRAPHY TUTORIAL Please take the time to learn the choreography footage linked below and match your own dancing in your self tape exactly as demonstrated . Audition Form By submitting this form, it is assumed you have general availability to be scheduled for rehearsals and filming between Oct 10 - Nov 22, 2026. (details listed above) Final schedule will be given at in person audition on Oct 10, 2026. Dancer's First and Last Name* Dancer's Age* Email* Phone* City (Location) How many years have you been dancing?* What styles of dance have you trained in?* Please tell me briefly about your current dance training/performance experience.* Please paste a Google Drive, Dropbox, or YouTube link to your audition video here: (OPTIONAL: additional videos may be emailed directly to cecilyilana@gmail.com)* What interests you about being a part of this project?* Send What happens next? After submissions close, I’ll review the audition videos and select a smaller group of dancers to move forward in the casting process. Selected dancers may be invited to a short in-person audition/rehearsal where I can see how they learn choreography, respond to direction, work with other dancers, and perform in the style of the project. Final casting will be based on the needs of the film and the overall fit of each dancer with the choreography and creative vision. Everyone who submits will receive an email response once the initial casting process has been completed.
- About The Artist | Cecily Ilana
Learn more about the person behind the performances, dance classes, and choreography. Cecily Ilana Choreographer, Performance Artist, Dance Instructor Phone: contact for phone number. Email: cecilyilana@gmail.com Based in Sarasota, FL PERFORMER Professionally trained in acting, musical theatre, vocal performance, piano, photography, acrobatics, and gymnastics. Specifically interested in dance-driven, narrative work that blends theatre, movement, and character. A Heritage of Performance • An onstage debut as an infant alongside “Papap” (Randy Estelle) a classically trained concert pianist. • Raised by a film director/game developer and an educator. • Living in an environment shaped by music, narrative, and visual creation. CHOREOGRAPHER Creating character-led, experimental performance art rooted in storytelling since 2017. • Exploring the complexity of human emotion. • Inviting multiple interpretations. Inspired by both historical and contemporary artists. • Infusing personal faith and life experience. • Producing original dance films/multimedia works, as well as collaborating with clients to bring live performance art into events and experiential settings. EDUCATOR 10 years experience teaching groups and private lessons in the Sarasota, Florida area. • Refining a practice centered on personal growth, discipline, and expression. • Developing curriculum to train the whole artist—combining technical development with confidence building, personal growth, and artistic exploration. • Finding deep joy in seeing students experience the same spark of inspiration I felt as a young performer discovering the world of creation. Work & Training Experience 2009-2017 2016-present 2017-present 2018-2020 Professional training in performance art through Circle Christian Arts Academy (CCAA). Accepted an instructor role at CCAA specializing in dance and musical theatre. Directed the Following Musicals: • Mary Poppins (2021) • A-Wop Bop A-Loo Bop (2022) • The Wind in The Willows (2023) • Alice in Wonderland (2024) • Bugsy Malone Jr (2025) Choreographed the Following Musicals: • Singin in the Rain (2018) • Seussical the Musical Jr (2019) - assistant choreographer • Bugsy Malone Jr (2025) • The Lion King Jr (2026) Self-produced, wrote, and recorded several independent art and dance film projects. Trained with company members and guest instructors at Sarasota Contemporary Dance in multiple styles including Contemporary/Modern, Hip Hop, Latin Hip Hop, African, Improv, and dance conditioning. Training & Creative Options Click here to discover more about the services currently offered.
- Mailing List Landing Page | Cecily Ilana
Info page for recent mailing list subscribers on classes, private lessons, custom choreography options, and how to view Cecily Ilana's art. Thanks for subscribing! Tap below for more info Classes & Training Options My Art About The Artist Custom Choreography
- Train with me | Cecily Ilana
Offering group dance classes in tap, contemporary, hip hop, musical theater, dance tricks, conditioning for dance, private lesson and custom choreography options. Training for Growth, Artistry and Confidence Every dancer's journey is different. My approach is rooted in the belief that great training goes beyond technique. It cultivates artistry, confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of movement. I strive to create an environment where dancers feel challenged, encouraged, and seen. Technical excellence is important, but so is learning how to communicate, take creative risks, and develop an authentic artistic voice. Whether a student is preparing for competitions, auditions, performances, or simply pursuing personal growth, my goal is to equip them with the tools they need to thrive both in and outside the studio. 2026-27 Group Classes Hosted @ I am proud to partner with Circle's team to present group classes for students ages 6-18 years old hosted at their campus in Southwest FL. They were a major part of my childhood training and I have been an instructor in their program for the past 10 years. For more information about who they are and the classes I will be hosting there, visit explorecircle .com today. Contemporary Dance Technique • Floorwork • Choreography (All Levels) Explore movement through creativity, expression, and foundational contemporary technique in a welcoming environment. Students build confidence, teamwork, improvisation skills, and basic floorwork while developing strength, artistry, and musicality. Options for both beginners and experienced dancers. REGISTER TODAY Tap Dance Technique • Choreography (All Levels) Tap is all about creating rhythm through movement, using your feet as a percussion instrument. Students develop strong technique, musicality, coordination, vocabulary, turns, leaps, and improvisation while building confidence, focus, and attention to detail. REGISTER TODAY Hip Hop Dance Technique • Breakdance • Choreography This high-energy fusion class explores styles including breaking, locking, tutting, Afro-fusion, Latin influences, and old-school hip hop. Students build coordination, musicality, foundational technique, improvisation, and teamwork in a fun and supportive environment. REGISTER TODAY Theater Dance Technique • Choreography Designed for performers who love to sing, dance, and tell stories on stage, this class blends Broadway jazz with elements of ballet, tap, hip hop, and contemporary. Students develop versatile technique, stage presence, musicality, and confidence while working together toward an exciting annual performance. (Dance ensemble option available) REGISTER TODAY Technique & Tricks Strength & Mobility • Turns • Leaps • Tricks Designed for intermediate and advanced dancers, this class focuses on strength, flexibility, mobility, and safe technical progression. Students refine turns, leaps, tricks, and overall dance technique while building healthy training habits to support long-term performance and injury prevention. REGISTER TODAY Private Training Personalized Training • Audition Prep Private training is available for dancers of all levels and individuals looking to improve strength, flexibility, mobility, balance, and overall wellness. Sessions are personalized to support technical dance goals, injury prevention, healthy movement, or simply building a stronger body for everyday life. REGISTER TODAY Private Lessons Personalized Training for Focused Growth. Schedule Consultation Private lessons offer the opportunity to accelerate progress through individualized instruction tailored to your goals. Whether you're preparing for an audition, working toward a specific technical achievement, refining performance skills, or maintaining momentum throughout the summer, private training allows for focused attention and customized programming. These sessions are ideal for dedicated performers in dance, theater, and other movement-based disciplines who are ready to invest in their growth. Together, we'll create a plan that supports your goals and helps you enter the fall season stronger, more confident, and better prepared than ever. Availability to take on new clients is limited. The best way to get started if you are interested in training on an individual basis is to reach out and schedule a complimentary consultation. Custom Choreography Designed just for you. Apply Today Explore my work Every performer and project is unique. Choreography services are tailored to showcase your strengths, support your artistic vision, and help you stand out with work that feels authentic and intentional. Available for: • Senior Solos • Choreography Projects • Audition Self-Tapes • Portfolio Reels • Duos & Small Groups • Competition Pieces • Music & Art Films • And More Whether you're preparing for an important audition, creating material for a portfolio, or bringing a creative project to life, choreography is crafted with your individual goals and strengths in mind. SUMMER Class options for summer 2027 coming soon!

