Biography

Mikhael Kinley

Mikhael Kinley is a dancer, choreographer, teacher, composer, and actor based in Paris, France. Born in New York City and raised in Los Angeles, he was immersed in the arts from an early age, studying dance, cinematography, music composition, and acting at the acclaimed Los Angeles County High School of the Arts (LACHSA). His recent acting roles include appearances in the television series “Bunheads" and the acclaimed sitcom “Modern Family”. "He began his formal dance training at the Marat Daukayev School of Ballet, where he earned 3rd place at the prestigious Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) Finals in New York City. Following this achievement, he was awarded a full scholarship to the esteemed Princess Grace Academy in Monaco, where he studied under the direction of Luca Masala from 2014 to 2017.

His debut choreographic work, "Body Disposition", marked his professional breakthrough and earned him the Princess Caroline Award, launching a promising career in choreography.

From 2017 to 2021, Mikhael danced with the Ballet du Rhin, performing works by acclaimed choreographers such as William Forsythe, Ohad Naharin, and Jiří Kylián. He also appeared in Hélène Blackburn's Beaux Dormants at the Royal Opera House in London. During his time with the company, Mikhael created three original works, including the critically acclaimed “Gran Partita” and “Danser Schubert”.

He later joined the Staatstheater Nürnberg under the direction of Goyo Montero, where he continued to perform famous works from choreographers such as Johan Inger, Mats EK and Edward Clug as well as expand his skills as a choreographer. Mikhael's most recent creation, “Swarm Intelligence”, showcases his dual talents as both choreographer and composer, featuring original music composed by Mikhael himself. The piece premiered to enthusiastic audiences and received positive acclaim from German critics and media. He has additionally served as a guest teacher at the Marat Daukayev School of Ballet in Los Angeles, California, as well as at the Hasmik Amirian Ballet School.

Now based in Paris, Mikhael works as a freelance choreographer and teacher continuing to explore and innovate at the intersection of creation through movement.