Biography
Skyla I'Lece is a remarkably talented young actress, singer and dancer who brings an impressive flair, depth and passion to every project she undertakes.
Skyla's talents will soon be showcased in her first series regular role on the upcoming Disney+ basketball drama series, "The Crossover," an adaptation of the best-selling Newberry Award-winning novel-in-verse by author, poet and educator Kwame Alexander. Poetry and basketball collide in this powerful new series about 14-year-old twin brothers who come of age on and off court, and this inspirational and emotional family drama is narrated through lyrical poetry. Skyla plays female lead 'Alexis' (known as 'Miss Sweet Tea' in the novel), a talented musician who has just moved back to the neighborhood and becomes intertwined with the twin brothers. NBA star LeBron James serves as an executive producer.
Born in North Carolina, Skyla (age 16) was singing and performing by the age of two. At age 3, her parents signed her up for musical theater camps, which is where the journey of a triple threat began. Her captivating personality and innate ability to bring dramatic and comedic scenes to life with ease and authenticity are remarkable for such a young actress. Her dramatizations will make you feel deeply; her comedic sense is sure to make you feel joyful on the inside.
Skyla first hit the professional acting main stage as a part of Disney's "The Little Mermaid" (2014), and later in Disney's and Cameron Mackintosh's "Mary Poppins" (2016) theatre productions. In 2017, she landed her first lead role as 'Mary Lennox' in the musical, "The Secret Garden," becoming perhaps the first African American to be cast in this starring role for a major professional production. For her role as 'Mary Lennox,' Skyla was nominated as "Best Actress in a Musical" by Broadway World. She was later cast as 'Baby June' in "Gypsy," for which she was nominated by Broadway World as "Best Featured Actress in a Musical," and as 'Duffy' in "Annie."
For television, Skyla made her television debut in the fourth season of the AMC series, "TURN: Washington's Spies." She went on to book a role in season one of "Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge," followed by a recurring role on Starz's crime drama series, "P-Valley," playing dance majorette 'Taylor.'
Now residing in Los Angeles, Skyla continues her dance training in Tap, Jazz, Contemporary and Hip Hop, and she plays both piano and guitar. As a singer, her voice is a powerhouse of soul, R&B and pop. A natural athlete, Skyla is trained in volleyball, tennis, archery, tumbling, swimming and horseback riding.
Skyla has worked with some of the best choreographers and acting coaches in the industry, from North Carolina to New York City to Los Angeles, and she continues to gain knowledge and experience, while honing her skills. She brings an incredible charisma and determination to the set and onto the stage, while remaining genuine and humble.
Through her performances, Skyla demonstrates her passion and drive to whole-heartedly and successfully pursue her dreams and aspirations as a flourishing actress, singer and dancer. The sky is the limit for this multi-hyphenate young talent who will continue to deliver unforgettable performances for years to come!
Follow Skyla's journey on Instagram @skyla_ilece.
