Today we’d like to introduce you to Lanaya Cooper.
Lanaya, before we jump into specific questions about your work, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’m just a country girl living the city girl dream… literally! Born and raised in a small town in South Carolina, I never thought I’d be afforded the opportunities I’ve had …and at such an early age. I’ve always had a love for dance but it wasn’t until my mom moved to Atlanta, GA that the possibilities became endless. August 2014 my mom woke up one morning and asked if I wanted to go to an event at Dance 411 to jump on the bounce house. An hour later, we were there and my life changed. They had a bounce house, King of Pops and lots of dancing. I remember learning choreography with Jeremy Green. I didn’t know anybody, but I felt very comfortable there. It was so much fun and just felt good. I was fortunate to get noticed by the studio director JJ Crampton as well as the studio owner Sindy Schneider. My mom was standing around watching me and heard Mrs. Sindy yell “Where is her mother?” It was so funny and a very memorable day. September 6, 2014, I was a member of the award winning Dance 411 Company Team. I joined the team to dance, I had no idea I would end up having the extensive resume I have at age 12. I’m so grateful for every choreographer that poured into me and shared their gift. I went from dancing in my own little world to television & big screens all over the world! Forever grateful for every opportunity.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey was not an easy one but worth every obstacle I’ve ever faced. I’ve grown as a dancer and an individual. Before my third year on the team, I was accepted into The Ron Clark Academy. I had to take a break from dance due to schedule conflicts and workload. It was hard not dancing every day but my school has prepared me for so much. I’ve learned balance, accountability, and so much more. I absolutely love my school! Although my dance was limited, I’ve gained so much to prepare me for the industry. My mom sacrificed ALOT to fuel my dreams, training and career. Not everyone felt it was worth it, so we didn’t receive a lot of support, but I’m so glad she believed in me as well as the dance community leaders. Superior dance training is an investment. I’ve been fortunate to have received scholarships for training, memberships and dance conventions that keep me dancing. I’m forever grateful for everyone who has helped me on this journey. Obstacles are expected in life. You face them and keep it moving.
Please tell us about your work.
I’m Lanaya Cee aka “Sweets.” I am a professional dancer who acts and raps. I am trained in many styles including hip hop, ballet, jazz, tap, modern, contemporary, street jazz. I’ve trained under the best choreographers including Sean Bankhead, Jamaica Craft, Jeremy Green, Brooke Bowe, Kiki Ely, Sakinah Lestage, Anthony Burrell, Anthony Marquis, Willdabeast Adams, Hollywood, Jacquel Knight, Josh Smith, Desi-Ray Morris, Brya Woods, Naeemah McCowan and so many more. Some of my credits include Honey 4, Star on Fox, Step Up, Zaxbys, Sesame Street, Kids Foot Locker with Teyana Taylor, Reebok, BMI Awards Janet Jackson Tribute. Currently, I am working with That Girl Lay Lay, the youngest female rapper to sign to a major record label. I started as one of her dancers and we have now formed a girl group called “Tha Slay Gang!” It’s always been a dream of mine to work with an amazing artist but never did it cross my mind that I’d be promoted to an artist myself. We have been working on our Christmas album that drops Black Friday 2019. We also have an upcoming tour and another album dropping next year. This whole experience has been amazing and so surreal. It hasn’t quite hit me yet! I’m so excited for my future! It’s amazing what happens when you believe in yourself, genuinely support your friends, and are surrounded by greatness!
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Consistency and longevity are most important to my success. I see the industry growing exponentially in the next 5-10 years. We are the next generation and the talent and creativity of our youth are very promising. We learn from the best so I don’t expect any less. Dance trends are constantly changing. I see a focus on the foundation as the changes continue to occur day to day. I have learned from so many of the greats and I’m learning more each day. I’m watching the kids who were my age now when I first started dancing that I look up to taking over the industry as teens now. The talent is starting earlier and earlier! I recently did a video with the young talented ZaZa Bean featuring That Girl Lay Lay. These young ladies are taking over! I’m also watching my little sister aka Baby Lindsey. She watches everything and I can’t wait to see what the future holds. We are the future!
Contact Info:
- Email: lanayacee@gmail.con
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LanayaCee
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LanayaCee
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/LanayaCee
Image Credit:
Rxch Images
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
