In celebration of Black History Month, LaDuca is honored to spotlight eight inspiring performers who not only exude Black Excellence on Broadway, but who are also an integral part of modern Black History themselves.
“It’s important for me as a black performer on Broadway to act with grace, pride, and to be the best version of myself on and offstage. This is how I express gratitude to the legends who paved the way for me to pursue my passion. Every rehearsal and performance is my opportunity to make sure that aspiring black performers are represented in the best light.”
~ Taeler Cyrus
Taeler Cyrus, from Los Angeles, CA, graduated with honors from The Ailey School/Fordham University with a B.F.A. in Dance. Taeler began her concert dance career performing with Ailey II, River North Dance Chicago, The Metropolitan Opera, and Complexions Contemporary Ballet.
Taeler has called Broadway her home for the last several years and was an original cast member in Tony Award-winning productions of After Midnight, An American in Paris, and the latest revival of “Hello, Dolly!” She also performed at the 2014 and 2016 Tony Awards. Her other musical theater credits include: Roger’s and Hammerstein’s Cinderella at Paper Mill Playhouse, Oklahoma at Sacramento Music Circus and New York City Center’s “Encores!” productions of Call Me Madam and High Button Shoes.
Taeler’s commercial credits include performances with Beyoncé, Kanye West, and Mariah Carey, in addition to television appearances on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Saturday Night Live, MTV’s Video Music Awards, and America’s Got Talent.
How Taeler stayed inspired this year:
This past year found us all grasping for new ways to connect to what’s important to us. Teaching virtually and mentoring aspiring dancers is how I stayed connected to the dance & theater community. It not only kept me sane, but my students have reignited my passion for dance. There’s something beautiful about getting back to the basics of performance and technique that I really love sharing and revisiting myself.
What BHM means to Taeler:
BHM is a time to celebrate black innovators and their contributions to our society. Rather than having their achievements go unsung, they get their well-deserved spotlight centerstage.
You can follow Taeler at @trulytaeler on Instagram.
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