Cheryl’s Story
Most of my life has been a performance. My journey started as a little girl in dance classes, and soon, I was gracing Broadway stages, dancing at Studio 54, and even competing in the Miss America Pageant, where I placed in the Top 10 and won the talent award. I’ve acted on soap operas, modeled for iconic brands like Yves Saint Laurent, and Valentino, and even starred in an Off-Broadway show with the live band Cameo.
But if I’m honest, I didn’t choose my first act. Like many women of my generation, I followed a path that was largely decided for me by other’s expectations. I made the best of it, and I loved so much of what I achieved, but something inside me always wondered what it would feel like to create a life on my own terms.
When I opened my own dance studio, I caught my first glimpse of that freedom. For 30 years, I poured my heart into running a thriving business where I taught thousands of students not just how to dance, but how to grow, persevere, and believe in themselves. Those years were some of the most fulfilling of my life.
And now, at 63, I feel like it’s finally my time. This is my second act, and I’m writing it exactly the way I want. I’m no longer chasing perfection (at least trying not to…) or living for anyone else’s expectations. I’m embracing my story, my humor, and my experiences to inspire other women in their 50s, 60's and beyond to do the same.
I know many of us didn’t get to pick our first act. But we have the power to take charge of our second. Whether it’s through bold fashion choices, rediscovering fitness, entertaining with flair, or simply daring to dream again, I’m here to show you that it’s never too late to live boldly, laugh freely, and step confidently (with new shoes!) into the life you’ve always wanted.
Life doesn’t end when the curtain falls on one chapter—it begins again when we decide to take the stage for our encore.
“Many of us didn’t get to pick our first act. But we have the power to take charge of our second.”
-Cheryl Flanagan
A Few Brands Cheryl Has Worked With…
Cheryl’s Professional Experience:
Dance & Performing Arts Professional:
Cheryl began her dance training and performing arts career at the age of seven.
At age 13, she was recognized as Model of the Year
She was crowned Miss New York State 1980-81 and won the Talent Award in the Miss America Pageant.
Known as the “Figure Tapper” for her distinctive spins and rapid footwork, she secured over 100 first-place awards in competitions.
Cheryl founded her own dance studio Spins, which she ran in Upstate New York for 30 years. She has recently sold this business, and it remains a pillar in her community for youth empowerment and excellence.
Performance & Acting Experience:
Cheryl appeared on television shows including Another World and Search for Tomorrow.
She performed on Broadway in Flanagan On Broadway and toured nationally with The First National Touring Company of 42nd Street (1985).
She was featured in industrials, print ads, and commercials for major brands, including Chrysler, Haagen-Dazs, Coca-Cola, Kodak, Xerox, Rochester Telephone, Monroe County Water Authority, and Batavia Downs.
She trained and performed alongside industry legends, including Gregory Hines, Maurice Hines, Mercedes Ellington, Henry Letang, Phil Black, Frank Hatchett, and Bob Audy.
Recent & Ongoing Work:
Cheryl was cast in The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (premiered May 2014).
She served as the spokeswoman for Monroe County Water Authority and Batavia Downs (2017-2018).
She continues to be involved in the arts, theater, and television.
