Micheal Kelland
Michael joined Lîla in 2019 for the R&D and creation of Lîla’s outdoor production MY BIT.
Michael graduated in 2012 from London Contemporary Dance School. Whilst there, he studied under and performed repertoire from companies and choreographers such as Richard Alston, Jorge Crecis, Pippa Duke, Rick Nodine and others. Since graduating Michael has worked with many choreographers as a freelance performer including James Wilton, Tom Dale, Rosie Kay, Lîla Dance, TRIBE// and many other project based performances.
Michael is also a keen martial artist, holding a second degree black belt in Shorinji Ryu style karate. He takes influence from many different movement methodologies such as, capoeira, acrobatics, floor work, yoga, breakdance and ballet as well as more traditional forms of contemporary dance, all of which he uses to inform his movement style.
Michael is a keen teacher, focusing on integrating acrobatic movements into contemporary phrase work and emphasising fluidity and ease in and out of the floor.
Photo credit: Amber Tanc
“I always felt supported to take artistic risks and never felt pressured to create something amazing right away, they truly understood that creation and art is a process.”