BFA Dance grad Karen Kao lands spot with Philadelphia's Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers

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by College of Fine and Performing Arts Staff

September 18, 2024

Dancer Karen Kao graduated from Western with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance in Summer of 2024. After studying and dancing on the West coast for five years, she looked for opportunities on the East coast to further her dance career. Karen describes her experience auditioning for the company Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers ("KYL/D") in Philadelphia, and what it's been like starting work with them.

KYL/D and I shared a similar goal of inviting multicultural features and bringing Eastern culture—especially Chinese dance culture—into contemporary dance, which drew my attention when researching dance companies on the East Coast. As a Taiwanese dancer, my background includes contemporary, modern, Chinese dance, and ballet, with some experience in martial arts. The company's vision resonated with me and gave me confidence, so I began researching the company and its artistic director.

I discovered they held an "audition-shop," which was a workshop by the company. Applicants auditioning for the company would attend the workshop and participate in classes throughout the week for the artistic director to decide who they were interested in working with. Unfortunately, I couldn’t be there in person since I was still visiting my family in Taiwan. I emailed the company along with my dance reel, resume, and website, explaining that I couldn’t attend the audition-shop but was very interested in working with the company, hoping there was another way to audition for the position. They responded and expressed interest in my dancing and invited me to join the company’s rehearsal process in person for a few days when I came back to the States.

I took a four-day trip to Philadelphia, danced with the company members, and worked on a piece that will be performed this year. On the second day of the trip, I was confirmed for the only female role in the performance, and I officially started my contract before heading back to Bellingham to pack and prepare for relocating.

This has now been my second week in the rehearsal process. The city is historical and fascinating with many artistic opportunities. I’ve been enjoying both the city and dancing, along with teaching in recent days. We rehearse for shows and train with classes such as "Chi" awareness, contemporary, and ballet three days a week. Currently, we are preparing for a small performance at a dance festival in Philadelphia next weekend (the 21st). Though it's not a formal show, it will be my first performance as a professional dancer! I'm extremely nervous yet excited for this journey. KYL/D's main show is held every spring; this year, it will take place the week of March 24th to 29th at a theatre at the University of Pennsylvania, which is a huge stage designed for professional contemporary performances.

From my experience, I would encourage people to pursue whatever they are passionate about. Reach out for opportunities—you never know how things might surprise you. Trust yourself and take steps toward your dream.

Best,

Karen Kao