We had the good fortune of connecting with Kaylin Sturtevant and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kaylin, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I followed my heart knowing that it would be difficult to pursue a dance career. The world, especially the United States, needs more appreciation and understanding for the arts, and I hope to play a role in spreading that knowledge and awareness. I have been told that what I do is not “a real job,” and I want to demonstrate that there is a purpose and necessity to pursue a creative career. In difficult times like the current state of the world today, art can provide in so many ways such as powerful statements, demanding attention to current issues in the present climate, and an escape from reality all at the same time. I want to continue to use my talent to inspire others to feel and relate to something.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am currently a freelance professional dancer and choreographer after just recently graduating from USC in Los Angeles, CA. My expertise is mostly in ballet, contemporary, modern, and jazz, but I am fortunate to have been trained in many different styles throughout my childhood and college years. Graduating in the middle of the pandemic (2020) has probably been one of the most difficult obstacles in my career because all of the sudden, studios were closed, and my peers and I were forced to train in our living rooms over Zoom. While this has been something we have never experienced before, it has opened the door to other ways that dance can be experienced and presented in various formats.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In Dallas, I enjoy going to Klyde Warren Park and the Arts District downtown. For food and drinks, I like the restaurants in Legacy, Legacy West, and the Frisco Star.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mentors from the USC Kaufman School of Dance, Dance Industry Performing Arts Center, and Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts.

Instagram: kaylin_s
Facebook: Kaylin Sturtevant

Image Credits
Joye Qualls, Dylan Spitler, Rashid Shahid, Ben Peralta

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