Kayla Popp (she/her), is currently attending Point Park University on a scholarship to earn her BFA in dance with a jazz concentration and a minor in psychology. While at Point Park University, she performed in “The List” by Christopher Huggins and “Luv & Light” by Kevin and Marcel Wilson at the Pittsburgh Playhouse. At Point Park, Kayla also received the Jack Tomayko Outstanding Student Choreography Award for her work in the Fall Student Choreography Project. Prior to attending Point Park, she trained at Pennsylvania Regional Ballet under the direction of Victoria Silva. During her time at PRB, she trained under Jeffery Gribler, Laszlo Beardo, and Erin Steifal-Inch. In addition to her conservatory training, she has attended the Regional Dance America National Festival where she performed “La Valse Elegante” by Jeffrey Gribler and “The Error of Our Ways” by Lauren Eichelberger. Kayla has also performed in “Escape to Margaritaville” (ensemble) at the Hershey Area Playhouse under the direction of Jasmin Ammons Bucher. In 2017, Kayla attended The School of Pennsylvania Ballet Summer Intensive, now Philidelphia Ballet, and in 2019 she attended Illadelph at Philadenco and trained under many Hip Hop legends such as Rennie Harris, Pop Master Fabel, Tyrone Proctor, and many more. In 2020, she attended The Ailey School Virtual Summer Intensive. Her training and performance opportunities have helped her become the versatile and strong dancer she is today.
Artist Statement
As a dancer, my body is both my instrument and my voice. My effortless lines, memorable explosivity, sensual quality, and bubbly personality entertain audiences on the stage and in the studio. Through movement, I explore the power of expression beyond words, transforming emotions, stories, and experiences into something tangible. My work is grounded in the principles of female empowerment, celebrating women's power and perseverance due to the strong, influential women around me. Dance allows me to connect with my identity and uplift the voices of those around me, creating a space where we can all be seen and heard.
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Collaboration fuels my creative process. I believe the energy exchanged between artists builds a rich community of support and inspiration. Together, we create something greater than ourselves—a shared narrative woven through collective movement. I’m deeply committed to integrity in my work, ensuring that every performance honors the authenticity of the story we tell and the individuals involved.
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I approach each performance as an opportunity to bring life to stories—both personal and universal. Whether it’s the quiet strength found in stillness or the explosive release of movement, I aim to connect with my audience in a way that sparks reflection, dialogue, and connection. Dance is my way of embracing the world, celebrating community, and inspiring transformation.
Vision
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My vision as a dancer and artist is to entertain audiences, inspire the next generation, and empower women. I am committed to consistently honing my craft and approaching each performance with integrity, authenticity, and passion. My impact will help the next generation of artists flourish and support women in all walks of life to step into their power.
Mission
Through storytelling in my performances and sharing my personal experiences, I aim to create deep, emotional connections with audiences that resonate beyond the performance. I will inspire women through movement, using the stage as a platform to express the strength, resilience, and beauty of the female spirit. In training the next generation of dancers, I will take all of the positive aspects from my experience and training and expand upon them in beneficial ways for younger artists to flourish. By collaborating with fellow artists and engaging with diverse communities, I hope to build a space where dance not only tells powerful stories but also empowers women to embrace their individuality, find their voice, and realize their potential in all areas of life.