Meet Nichelle Bane | Dancer, Dance Teacher, Choreographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nichelle Bane and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nichelle, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born in Ventura, California, and raised in San Luis Obispo from the age of three. When I first started walking, I was pigeon-toed, and my doctor recommended ballet to help correct it. At just three years old, I stepped into my first dance class—and I absolutely fell in love with it.

As I grew, my passion for dance only deepened, and I was eager to train in as many genres as possible. I was fortunate to be a part of The Academy of Dance, a studio that not only taught technique but also instilled discipline, confidence, and valuable life skills. The incredible teachers there shaped me into a strong and confident dancer and person.

My love for performing and teaching flourished under the guidance of the studio director, who always encouraged me to expand my knowledge and experiences. She gave me the opportunity to teach and choreograph as a teenager and young adult, which played a huge role in shaping both my career and who I am today. I am forever grateful for her mentorship and the foundation she helped me build.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
have been fortunate to have an amazing career. I’ve traveled the world dancing on Princess Cruises, performed in film and television, and taken the stage in numerous dance concerts and ballets. For seven years, I was a member of The Civic Ballet Company, and since moving to Los Angeles in 1996, I have built a name for myself as a teacher and choreographer.

As an educator, I take great pride in my work. I strive to give my students everything I can—not just technique, but discipline and the invaluable life lessons I was given as a young dancer. I love traveling around the country to teach, and when even one student comes up to tell me how much they loved my class or how much they learned, it makes it all worth it.

Recently, I’ve had the opportunity to teach at AMDA (The Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts) College, where I work with young adults eager to learn and build their careers. It has been one of the most rewarding and fulfilling positions I’ve ever held.

For the past 10 years, I have also served as the resident choreographer for Astra Dance Theatre, creating unique and thought-provoking works. We have adapted stage productions based on Edgar Allan Poe’s Eleonora, the 1920s German silent horror film The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, and more. Currently, we are celebrating the success of our dance film Cod’ine, which continues to win awards on the global film festival circuit. Additionally, our film adaptation of Caligari is gaining momentum in the same space.

My journey has been long and built one step at a time through hard work and determination. In this field, you must have a tough skin—there is a lot of rejection and little support. But having my own support system and an unshakable passion for dance kept me going. Over time, you learn to navigate the tough moments, grow from them, and maintain a positive attitude. That’s how you survive in this industry. When one door closes, another always opens.

I want the world to know that I have something unique to offer. I am a dedicated educator. My choreography is both versatile and distinct. Above all, I am a positive and caring collaborator, always striving to inspire those I work with.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
An absolutely amazing week would, of course, include a couple of dance classes—possibly even one that I’m teaching.

There would be at least a day or two spent at the beach. I love heading to Ventura Beach, riding bikes, and grabbing tacos from the stand on the pier. For dinner, we’d go to Brophy Bros in the Harbor Village. Another beach day might be spent exploring Venice and Santa Monica, taking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Hiking with my dog is a must! Some of my favorite trails are Fryman, Runyon Canyon, and Eaton Falls.

Breakfast or brunch would be a highlight, with stops at some of my favorite spots—Garden Cafe in Sherman Oaks, Farm Table in Van Nuys, Blu Jam Cafe in Sherman Oaks, The Hungry Fox in Valley Glen, and definitely More Than Waffles in Encino.

For dinner, the first stop would likely be Casa Vega in Sherman Oaks—I’ve been going there for years! Other must-visit spots include Lido’s Pizza in Van Nuys, Oliva Trattoria in Sherman Oaks, Kinnara Thai in Van Nuys, Fresh Mediterranean Grill in Van Nuys, and Ay Papa Que Rico in Van Nuys. Of course, I’d love to check out some new places, too!

Maybe we’d grab a martini at a dive bar somewhere, and we’d definitely make a trip to Malibu Wines and Beer Garden in West Hills.

I always love discovering festivals, art shows, and fun excursions. Exploring the museums in SoCal is always a great time!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Of course, I want to thank The Academy of Dance, San Luis Obispo, for the incredible training and mentorship I received during my time there and beyond. But above all, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my parents.

I chose a life and career that isn’t an easy one. I didn’t follow the traditional path of attending a four-year college and earning a degree. Instead, I pursued my passion—traveling and dancing—something I could only do because of the unwavering support and love of my parents.

Dancing isn’t a career that makes you rich in dollars; it’s something you do because it fuels your soul. My parents supported me in every possible way—financially, emotionally, and with unconditional love. My dad used to say he was waiting for me to get a “real job,” but one day, he realized that this was my real job.

I wouldn’t be where I am today or the person I’ve become without the support they gave me. I’m still doing what I love, and I am a happy, strong person because of them. Thank you to Ron Bane, Sandy Bane, and my entire family for the love you have always shown me.

Website: https://nichellebane.com

Instagram: @nichellebane

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nichelle-bane-93b4893b/

Twitter: @NichelleBane

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nichellejbane/

Youtube: @Nichelle Bane

Image Credits
Roger Foajs Photography 2012
Clarence Alford Photography