On the stage
Dancer & Choreographer
Film, music videos, dance publications, live theater and commercial work across the United States — from Theater 47 Company productions to performances with Soleil and Chance the Rapper.
About
Her Story
Kayla “Kay” Kurns is a Chicago-based artist, educator, choreographer, dancer, and director whose dance journey began at the age of seven.
Initially self-taught, Kay later pursued formal training in ballet, hip-hop, jazz, modern, West African, contemporary, tap, choreography, and other dance disciplines. At just 15 years old, Kay began sharing her passion for dance as an educator, teaching at studios throughout Chicago and the South Suburbs. Her training and competitive experience includes Premiere One Dance Academy, Legacy Dance Ensemble, and City Nation Studios. She has since worked with organizations and studios including Chicago Multicultural Dance Center, Triple Threat Divas, Jo’s Footwork, City Nation Studios, Pulse Dance Company, Freedom of Movement, Konquer Dance Company, Austin Lo’ren and Activate Your Artistry Dance Convention.
Kay holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance from Columbia College Chicago. As a professional performer and choreographer, she has worked throughout the United States across film, music videos, dance publications, live performances, and commercial projects. Her performance credits include working with Soleil and Chance the Rapper, appearing in the Ellie Banke music video, and serving as a guest artist for Black Legacy Dance Project in a production honoring Chance the Rapper. Kay has also performed as a principal dancer with Theater 47 Company, appearing in the theatrical productions Phyllis Hyman and The Michael Jackson Experience. Her creative work also extends into choreography and direction, serving as a choreographer and director for Austin Lo’ren Dance Studio.
In addition to her work as a performer and educator, Kay has built a career in dance fashion and commercial artistry. She has been a model for Revolution Dance Wear for five years and is currently signed with Bravo Talent Management.
Through her multifaceted work as an artist, educator, choreographer, and director, Kay continues to create meaningful experiences through movement while inspiring dancers to develop their artistry, confidence, individuality, and connection to dance.
Work With Kay
In the studio
Educator & Director
Teaching since age 15 at studios throughout Chicago and the South Suburbs, and serving as choreographer and director for Austin Lo’ren Dance Studio — helping dancers grow in artistry, confidence and individuality.
Dance is not just an expression — it’s a movement that feeds the soul.
Words she lives by
“Practice makes progress, not PERFECT.”
“Tomorrow is never promised, but yesterday is guaranteed.”
“Keep on living.”
“Be still, and know that I am GOD.”
Psalm 46:10“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
Proverbs 3:5–6“O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.”
Psalm 136:1“The Lord is my light and my salvation.”
Psalm 27:1
A note from Kay
“My little dream turned into GREATNESS all because you kept God first and walked down the path he already planned out.”
This quote is to all the little young black girls who have a dream. You can do anything as long as you walk by faith not by sight. Keep God first and the rest will fall into place. Pray in the midst of the storms and pray when things are going good.