Choreographer and movement artist Juel D. Lane’s 11 Good Things

In this series, ArtsATL asks a member of the Atlanta arts community to share 11 things on their mind. We hope you enjoy getting to know these people better.

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Juel D. Lane is a multifaceted artist known for bold creativity and powerful storytelling through movement. He has performed with acclaimed companies such as Ronald K. Brown/Evidence and Camille A. Brown & Dancers, and his choreography has been featured by Ailey II, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, BODYTRAFFIC, Hubbard Street, Carolyn Dorfman Dance and Atlanta Ballet, as well as universities across the country. He also serves as an executive artistic associate of the Black Acting Methods Studio.

As director of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts Choreographic Institute, Lane curates space for choreographers to explore process and creation on their own terms. In 2025, he choreographed the new musical Co-Founders at American Conservatory Theater (ACT) in San Francisco, and The Brothers Size play by Tarell Alvin McCraney at The Shed in New York City. Lane is also passionate about dance on film and won an award at the BronzeLens Film Festival for The Maestro, a short film honoring iconic artist Ernie Barnes. 

Here, in no particular order, are his 11 good things.

1. Lemon pepper, all flat. As a native of Atlanta, hot wings are a staple. If I had to choose a place to get them from, it would be U.S.A. Deli at Memorial Drive and Moreland Avenue. Listen, this spot is the best kept secret when it comes to wings, fried fish and hot fries! It’s like I don’t need them, but I eat them every greedy moon. I recommend my favorite — lemon pepper wet mixed with teriyaki, all flat!

2. Land of the weirdos. There’s something magical about Little 5 Points. I was introduced to this place as a teenager with The Freddie Hendricks Youth Ensemble of Atlanta, and I frequent here for shopping and so much more. It’s like going to my cousin’s house that’s real cool. My favorite spot to find the dopest pieces is a mother and daughter boutique called GET IT GRL Boutique.

3. A really good soup. I love making homemade soup, especially when the weather is getting cold. To be honest, I could eat soup all year long. My favorite to make is cabbage soup.

4. Museums. I’m a museum nerd, and I love getting lost in them. As a traveler, these are my favorites: Atlanta’s High Museum of Art, the Tate Modern in London, Studio Museum in Harlem, and the African American Museum in Philadelphia — and please check out SCAD FASH with its lovely exhibit on Andre Leon Talley.

5. Tranquility. Lil Jon’s meditation album has me locked in! If you know me, I love a peaceful environment and mood.

6. Wine o’clock. 3 Parks Wine is my go to for wines, but it’s also nice just to sit at their place and indulge on wine flights.

7.  The Black Acting Methods Studio. This Black woman-owned business just opened up its studios in the Goat Farm, founded by Dr. Sharrell D. Luckett. I love that artists have a place to learn acting rooted in Afrocentricity. This is exciting for Atlanta!

8. Tassili’s Raw Reality Café. I consider myself a part-time vegan, and I love this place. The food is healthy and fresh, and it will put a lasting impression on your stomach.

9. Delta. I’m allergic to other airlines — Delta is my preferred choice to fly. You know, there’s an energy there that feels comfortable. Don’t get me wrong, you should do what is economical for you, but flying with Delta makes me feel like I hit the lottery! 

10. Being an Atlanta native. It brings me joy that I’m from Atlanta. Our accents, the energy, our grounding — it’s the one thing that keeps me centered as an artist. Besides, people from Atlanta got fresh mouths, and we will sting when needed.

11. My creative calling. I love to bring people together and help artists problem solve. I like being a thought partner. Stay tuned — I do have something up my sleeve for choreographers wanting to be “SEEN” for 2026.