Shelly Elle

A veteran performer and respected figure in the pole world, Shelly holds titles including 1st Runner Up at the 2010 USPDF West Coast Regional and the 2011 Pole Burlesque Competition. She was also a finalist in the 2013 and 2016 National Aerial Pole Art Competitions, the 2013 California Pole Dance Championship, the 2011 and 2012 USPDF Championships, and the 2010 East Meets West Tripole Challenge. Competing in open divisions against women half her age, Shelly became known for her strength, artistry, and expressive stage presence.

Shelly was an original member of the west coast Broadminded cast, her first show of its kind. She says the experience — and the cast — remain among the best she has ever performed with, and she is deeply honored to return to the production and continue representing the artistry and power of women over 40. “There are many extraordinary performers in this age group, even if society often overlooks them,” said Shelly, who “sees proof of their brilliance all the time” and is proud to stand among them.

Integrating modern, jazz, and cabaret dance with the athleticism of pole, Shelly built a signature style described as both graceful and fiery, marked by dynamic accents, musicality, and storytelling. She continues to train passionately in pole, strength, and flexibility — and is now more flexible than ever.

In San Francisco, Shelly ran a successful pole instruction business for over a decade, building a supportive community of dancers and artists. Since relocating to Pollock Pines, California, she has embraced a new chapter of creative and grounded living. As a full-time caregiver for her 86-year-old mother, she finds balance and renewal through knitting and crocheting, and has turned the physical demands of mountain life — chopping wood, hauling supplies, and refinishing furniture — into her own form of cross-training and strength practice.

She now expands her artistry through crochet and wearable art, weaving her sense of movement, rhythm, and storytelling into each handmade piece. You can see her latest fiber art and wearable creations on Facebook.

Shelly’s journey embodies the art of reinvention — living proof that discipline, creativity, and passion can thrive in every season of life. She is currently in the process of finding a new studio space in Pollock Pines to continue both her training and teaching, carrying forward her love of movement and creative expression.If you’ve never seen this legend perform before, wear comfortable shoes to the show because you WILL be on your feet cheering!