BIOGRAPHY

Kaya Wolsey is a dynamic and accomplished artist, celebrated for her work as a dancer, choreographer, educator, and director. As a founding member of DanceAspen, she now serves as the Director of Operations and Marketing, playing an instrumental role in the company's rapid growth and success. With a strong foundation in both classical ballet and contemporary dance, Kaya seamlessly integrates her creative passions with her leadership responsibilities. Her ability to balance the artistic and operational sides of the organization ensures its smooth functioning, all while she continues to pursue new avenues in her choreographic endeavors.

Her early training at Wasatch Ballet Conservatory was further enriched by studies at Pacific Northwest Ballet and Ballet West. In 2013, she earned her BFA in Ballet from the University of Utah, where she performed with Utah Ballet, gaining experience in both classical and contemporary repertoires. Highlights of her early career include performances in Ma Cong's *Passion* and works by Dr. Jung Sik Roh of Roh Dance Project in Seoul, Korea.

Kaya's career has spanned both classical and contemporary dance, performing with companies such as Ballet San Antonio, where she danced in productions including *Cinderella*, *The Nutcracker*, and *Don Quixote*. Her deep curiosity and passion for movement exploration led her to join SALT Contemporary Dance, where she worked with celebrated choreographers like Peter Chu, Gustavo Ramirez-Sansano, Joni McDonald Penny Saunders and Gabrielle Lamb. Kaya's commitment to the dance community extended beyond the stage, as she also served as Outreach and Education Director for SALT.

Following her time with SALT, Kaya achieved a personal dream by joining Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, a company she had long admired. There, she performed a wide range of works by choreographers such as Nicolo Fonte, Alejandro Cerrudo, and Jorma Elo, embodying lead roles in prestigious productions. The closure of Aspen Santa Fe Ballet during the pandemic led Kaya and her fellow artists to found DanceAspen, where she has contributed greatly both on stage and behind the scenes. As a dancer with DanceAspen, she has had the privilege of performing works by choreographers like Cayetano Soto, Danielle Rowe, Yin Yue, and Penny Saunders, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and accomplished artist.

Kaya’s extensive performance career also includes freelance work with Municipal Ballet, Repertory Dance Theater, and South Dakota Ballet. In 2021 and 2022, she performed with South Dakota Ballet and appeared at the renowned Vail Dance Festival with DanceAspen.

In addition to her performing career, Kaya is a dedicated educator with over 13 years of experience teaching Ballet, Contemporary, and Improvisation. She is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique and has taught master classes at institutions such as Ballet West and Vail Dance Festival. As a choreographer, Kaya has created full length works for DanceAspen, South Dakota Ballet and Municipal Ballet along with hundreds of creations for studios around the country. Her choreography has earned recognition at festivals such as the SALT Dance LINK Festival and the SHAPE Choreography Festival.

In her current role at DanceAspen, Kaya remains deeply connected to the artistic process, dedicating much of her time to the studio. She teaches company classes, directs rehearsals, and brings her own choreographic vision to life in company productions. Her creative involvement is central to shaping DanceAspen’s artistic identity, allowing her to cultivate the dancers’ talents while exploring new directions in movement and storytelling. In addition to her work in the studio, Kaya oversees all aspects of the organization’s operations, from production management and event coordination to costuming, lighting, and venue logistics. She also manages key administrative responsibilities such as accounting, contracting, and scheduling. As a founding member and leader, Kaya thrives in the dual role of artist and director, balancing her passion for dance with the demands of running a successful non-profit.