Hey there! I’m Céilí Jordan Taft (yep, it’s pronounced Kaylee). My name comes from the Gaelic word for a lively Irish gathering filled with dance and music—fitting since I’ve been steeped in that world my whole life! I competed at the highest levels of Irish dance, taught younger students, and celebrated Saint Patrick’s Day with a full heart (and quick feet). But storytelling has always been at the core of who I am—whether through movement, words, or performance.
That love for storytelling took me from the stage to the courtroom (sort of ). In mock trials, I discovered the perfect mix of law and performance, where my passion for acting and vigorous debate collided. That same passion has led me to pursue a career as an artist, earning my high school diploma from one of the world's top high school theatre conservatories—UNCSA—where I am continuing my studies as a University student, specializing in Drama with a concentration in Acting.
Recently, I stepped into the role of Emily in the upcoming film Shallow produced by 1716 Digital, an experience that deepened my love for location films and collaboration. I have also performed in various musicals, plays, cabarets, and short films.
Beyond acting and dance, I’m a multi-hyphenate creative who thrives on curiosity. Whether it’s playing piano and clarinet, flipping through gymnastics routines, or writing stories, I’m always looking for new ways to challenge myself. I bring a unique perspective to my work, with specialized skills in Champion-Level Irish Dance, stage combat, physical theatre, and various accents/dialects, making me a versatile performer. The more I learn, the more I bring to my art—and that’s what excites me most.
Let’s connect! Whether you’re looking for an actress with a movement-based background, a collaborator on an exciting new project, want to learn how to be a better auditioner/performer yourself, or just want to chat about storytelling, I’d love to hear from you! Check out my latest work and follow my creative journey on YouTube.
As A Young Performer
Starting young in performance teaches you how to be comfortable in front of others, a skill I carry with me to this day. The thought of being on stage always excited me, and I embraced every moment of it. The applause and the thrill of connecting with an audience became an exhilarating rush. Each performance taught me to trust myself, stay present, and grow into a versatile performer.
