We had the good fortune of connecting with Kinsley Stella Oykhman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kinsley Stella, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
It is not always the best dancer that gets the part or the job. Most dance jobs in the industry don’t require the highest level of technique or training background. A lot of industry work is about connections, your look and how it fits for the role, and standing out at an audition. Dancers who want to work in the commercial industry need to keep their training and dancing up but also remember to have skills in presenting yourself well, performing under pressure, picking up choreography fast and working a camera!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a dancer and I train in almost all styles of dance. My favorite styles are contemporary, lyrical and jazz. I started formal dance training when I was 2 years old and since then have always wanted more and more. What has set me apart from others is that I am Canadian and that has had a lot of challenges when trying to work and compete in the US. When I was finally at a level to compete in the US, living in Canada, it was two years of COVID we were not allowed to travel internationally. I had to zoom competitions from my basement while watching my US friends compete at many in person. It was really difficult and lonely and I always felt as if I was missing out. Also, now living in California, before receiving my work permit, I was not able to take any dance jobs. Being Canadian, you are not allowed to work in the US on the visa my family came on. This was also difficult seeing roles I really wanted to audition for be given to other dancers. I overcame both of these challenges by just training. All I could do was focus on myself and my art and become the best dancer I could be. When it is now finally time to compete and audition, I am even more ready!

What I want the world to know about me is that I have sacrificed a lot and worked very hard to get to where I am. It does not happen overnight. Also, it takes a lot of people supporting you and willing to help you chase your dreams. I have had MANY obstacles and let downs along the way, but my passion is dance and I always remember that I am doing what I love, no matter how other’s may judge me.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I have only lived in California for a year and a half but I am OBSESSED! I am dying for all my Canadian friends to come visit me. I currently live in Newport Beach so if I had a visitor we would start there. When we wake up, we would go to one of my favorite bakeries in Corona Del Mar-Rose Bakery. After that we would walk two blocks to Inspiration Point to see the gorgeous view of the ocean. I love the beach so we would walk down and spend a few hours in the waves! After that, we would probably grab an Acai Bowl and head to the mall. I love Fashion Island mall and Irvine Spectrum. I spend a lot of time in LA so I would show all my friends around my favorite spots there after. I would take her for drop in classes at Millennium and Playground with some of my favorite teachers. After, we would get another smoothie (cause I can’t resist) from SunLife Organics in Century City mall. Every time I dance in LA, I make my mom take me there! I would show my friend the Hollywood sign and probably fit in a day at Universal! I never run out of things to do and see in LA!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have had so many incredible mentors in my life that have helped me become the dancer I am today and that have guided me in the industry to far. The two main dance companies that have contributed most to my successes so far are YYCDP in Calgary, Canada and The Brea Space in California. YYC gave me my love for contemporary and prepared me for National Level American competitions. Krista and Cory Miller at The Space have provided me with so much guidance and insight in to the dance industry. I have learned so much from both of them and through my time at The Space have further developed my career goals.

Instagram: @kinsleystella

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaq1Nosp_6IIF_51ofCzdAA

Other: tiktok @kinsleymom32

Image Credits
In Motion Photo Studio Michelle Baron

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.