COME TO DANCE,
WALK AWAY INSPIRED!

KAR Dance Convention 2024 | Experience the hottest new choreography styles this season at our convenient one-day event!

Where
Anaheim Convention Center
800 W. Katella Ave.
Anaheim, CA 92802
When
September 29, 2024
8am – 5pm

Faculty Members

Caley Carr
Tap

Caley Carr is a tap choreographer who hails from Southern California. Caley made his television debut on Fox’s hit show So You Think You Can Dance, where he is still recognized as the tap dancing, mustache adoring surfer. Commercially, he has also been spotted on creditcards.com and can be seen in Ty Dolla $ign featuring Post Malone’s music video for the hit single “Spicy”. Most recently, Caley’s work is featured in the upcoming film “The Performer”, in which he was the choreographer as well as the double.


Another credit of Caley’s includes choreographing for NBC’s World of Dance. Caley performed with Derek Hough in his “Kairos” music video and in his “Singin’ in the Rain” recreation performed at Hollywood Night Under the Stars hosted by George Clooney. Caley has spent time as a company member in “Rhapsody in Taps” under the direction of Linda Sohl-Ellison, and has also spent multiple years as a company member of “Tap Sounds Underground”, directed by legendary Gregg Russell.


Caley has toured with Grammy Award Winner Tim Kubart as his tap dancing sidekick. He has also toured with Postmodern Jukebox (widely known by the acronym PMJ) in a rotating musical collective founded by arranger and pianist Scott Bradlee. Caley was also published in Dance Magazine as one of the “Top 25 Breakout Stars of 2018” and was featured in a Q&A article in the magazine’s “Tap Issue”. 


Caley brings not only his wealth of knowledge and experience, but also an energy like no other to all of his classes on the convention tour.



Chryssie Whitehead-Disbrow
Musical Theater

Living by her favorite quote, “Be who you needed when you were younger,” Chryssie Whitehead joins the faculty of KAR Dance Convention with a wealth of industry experience spanning 25 years. Originally from the Southern Strutt dance studio in South Carolina, Chryssie is delighted to return to her roots as a convention dancer, eager to pay it forward to the next generation.

Chryssie's journey in the performing arts began immediately after high school when she danced for the iconic Rockettes. Since then, she has built an illustrious career in film, television, and Broadway as an actress, dancer, and singer. After studying musical theatre at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA), Chryssie made her Broadway debut in the revival of A Chorus Line, playing Kristine. Her additional Broadway accomplishments include roles in Chicago and Company (Lincoln Center with Neal Patrick Harris). Chryssie’s favorite regional roles include Bombalurina in Cats, Lola in Damn Yankees, and Cassie in A Chorus Line.

Her credits in film and television are equally impressive, featuring work in the West Side Story film, Grey's Anatomy, Switched at Birth, Castle, The Mentalist, Warehouse 13, Private Practice, Grimm, and the romantic comedy Revenge of the Bridesmaids with Raven Simone.

Transitioning to the creative side, Chryssie has directed and choreographed professional and educational productions such as Chicago, A Chorus Line, Rent, All Shook up, Into the Woods, Shrek, Grease, How 2 $ucceed in Business, and Beauty and the Beast. As a dedicated educator, she currently directs showcases and teaches on the musical theatre faculty at AMDA College and Conservatory for the Performing Arts in NYC, Broadway Dance Center, and Steps.

Beyond her commitment to teaching and performance, Chryssie co-founded www.BroadwayArtsCommunity.com, a performing arts mentoring & coaching company. She's currently touring with a show she wrote based on her life’s journey, aimed at spreading hope and normalizing conversations around mental illness.

We are thrilled to welcome Chryssie Whitehead to our faculty at KAR Dance Convention, confident that her wealth of experience, passion for mentoring, and unique insights will inspire our students. Learn more about Chryssie at www.chryssiewhitehead.com.

Faliceano Turk
Hip Hop


Faliceano Keith Turk was brought into the world of entertainment at the age of 8 with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Facliceano learned most of his Hip Hop skills, dance technique, and vibrant performance quality from life’s courses of ups and downs. His hard hitting energetic style keeps his students at the top of L.A.’s lists in major competitions, shows, and projects, far and wide. He and his wife, Summer Turk, have partnered to create K.A.S.T. (Keith and Summer Turk) Academy of the Arts, which continues to earn a multitude of top scoring high point honors, countless title awards, and national recognition. 

K.A.S.T. is a leading entertainment academy that has been featured on many shows and televised competitions. The academy is known for its high success rate of athletes and dancers. Faliceano’s choreography can be seen on shows such as Ellen and So You Think You Can Dance: The Next Generation. His training has led his students to dance for The BET Awards, Target commercials, AGT, and Disney. With a student success rate of 90.4%, dancers travel from far distances to train at K.A.S.T.

From choreographing a Bollywood Bhangra for artist Sukshindar Shinda of India, to landing a nationwide commercial alongside his good friend D-trix (of ABDC/Quest Crew), Faliceano has also grabbed the attention of directors to score a part in the award winning Broadway Musical, Wicked. Meeting with and auditioning for artists such as Mariah Carey, Rihanna, Missy Elliot, and Madonna, Faliceano continues to push his students to land jobs while educating them on the dance industry. He teaches in the styles of Hip Hop, Jazz, African Dance, Lyrical, and more. 

Faliceano says “Dance with no limits. Leave the floor buzzing with your name on it.”


Ki'Leigh Williams
Tap

Ki'Leigh Williams, a midwestern native from Indiana began her professional dance career at the age of 10 performing with the off-broadway show, Tap Kids. Growing up in a dance studio allowed her to learn styles such as Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary and Hip-Hop.  After graduating high school, Ki'Leigh attended Point Park University receiving her Bachelors in Forensic Science while teaching Tap & Hip-Hop for their community classes and International Summer Dance Intensive. After graduating, Ki'Leigh moved to to reconnect with movement on the West-Coast. The rest is history! Ki'Leigh has taught tap & hip-hop styles in spaces such as Movement Lifestyle, Millennium Dance Complex, Point Park University and Motus The Company.  She's also been blessed to move on projects with Usher, Adam Levine, Big Boi, Jesse McCartney, AlunaGeorge, Cirque Di Soleil, Disney +: Encore, & Remy Martin.

Kristin Farina
Contemporary

Introducing Kristin Farina, an acclaimed choreographer and dancer whose extraordinary talent has made waves in the industry. With over 15 years of experience in the dance world, Kristin has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including Jennifer Lopez, Chris Brown, and Khalid. You may also recognize her from her captivating performances on Season 3 of World of Dance!

Kristin's passion and dedication have taken her across the globe as an international adjudicator, teacher, and performer, captivating audiences wherever she goes. Her mesmerizing moves and impeccable technique continue to leave a lasting impression on dance enthusiasts worldwide.

But that's not all! Kristin is also a social media sensation, boasting over 1.5 million followers across various platforms. Her uplifting posts and electrifying dance videos serve as a beacon of inspiration, motivating countless individuals to pursue their dreams relentlessly.

Join us in welcoming Kristin Farina to the KAR Convention family, where her expertise and passion for dance will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of performers to shine bright!

Madeline Underwood
Jazz


Madeline is from Jamestown, North Carolina, where she grew up training in all styles of dance. She performed on stages across the eastern region of the United States.  She was featured on Season 7 of Dance Moms as a member of the Candy Apple Team. She was also featured in Bloch dance wear’s “Dance with Confidence” campaign shot by Jordan Matter. She currently trains at The Brea Space in their Launch program under the direction of Krista Miller. While at the space, she has appeared in music videos and also assisted many online dance classes.  She has already begun her professional career, appearing on “This is Us” last season. She is thrilled to be teaching at KAR Convention.


Nancy O'Meara
Pro:tégé Director


Nancy O’Meara is a noted dancer, choreographer, director, and mentor within the dance industry. She was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, where she developed a strong technical background training in all genres of dance. Her fast paced and powerful choreography is well known and has been sought after for decades.

Nancy is currently the go-to choreographer and movement coach for the majority of Hollywood Records Artists. She has performed with and worked with recording artists and actors including Miley Cyrus, Jennifer Lopez, Kelly Clarkson, Britney Spears, LL Cool J, Usher, Paula Abdul, Reba McEntire, Mike Myers, Martin Short, Vanessa Williams, Bea Miller, Enrique Iglesias, Queen Latifah, John Legend, and the tour cast of High School Musical.

Nancy’s choreography and creative direction can also be seen on Carly Rae Jepsen, Jason Mraz, Colbie Caillat, Big Time Rush, Aly and AJ, Greyson Chance, Owl City, Charlie Puth, and 10 world tours with multi-platinum selling artist and Latin superstar Chayanne.

Her television choreography credits include Hannah Montana, American Idol, The American Music Awards, So You Think You Can Dance, The Teen Choice Awards, The Kids Choice Awards, The Billboard Music Awards, The Grammy Awards, Suite Life of Zack and Cody, iCarly, The Tonight Show, SNL, Regis and Kelly, Good Morning America, Ellen, The MTV Awards, The BET Awards, and The Latin Grammy Awards.

Nancy’s choreography can also be seen in top music videos for Miranda Cosgrove, Hilary Duff, Vanessa Hudgens, Jesse McCartney, Ashley Tisdale, Jack and Jack, Matthew Koma, Grammy Award Winner Elvis Costello, Paula Abdul, and many others.

Her feature film dance credits include The Wedding Planner, 13 Going on 30, The Country Bears, Forrest Gump, Austin Powers: Goldmember, and Clerks II. Nancy has performed in a variety of specials including The Grammy Awards, The MTV Movie Awards, The American Music Awards, The Academy Awards, The Billboard Music Awards, and The Latin Grammy Awards. She has also appeared on televised programs including The Tonight Show and Ellen.

In addition to bringing her expertise to the KAR Dance Convention Faculty, Nancy is also a vital part of KAR’s Pro:tégé Performer Program.



Patrick Cook
Theater Jazz


Patrick Cook is a highly skilled professional dancer with a distinguished career spanning multiple facets of the entertainment industry. Trained by leading choreographers since the age of 11, Patrick has showcased his talents in both the vibrant dance scene of Los Angeles and the dynamic concert world of New York City.

Patrick's resume includes performances with superstars such as Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, Katy Perry, BTS, Harry Styles, Ne-Yo, Ciara and Paula Abdul. Notably, he co-choreographed and danced in Justin Bieber's music video "Life is Worth Living" alongside choreographer Emma Portner. His versatility extends to touring with Daniel Ezralow's acclaimed dance company, Ezralow Dance, where he performed in the celebrated shows "OPEN" and "PEARL" across China and the United States.

Patrick’s film credits include roles in critically acclaimed productions such as ViceLA LA LAND, and Spirited, showcasing his ability to blend into both dramatic and musical cinematic environments.

His live performance credits are extensive, including tours with Taylor Swift on the Red Tour (2013-2014) and with Paula Abdul on the Total Package Tour (2017). In addition to his work on stage, Patrick has appeared on numerous television shows, including GleeLate Night with James Corden, The Talk, The Good Trouble, All RiseTwo and a Half Men, and NBC's Superstore.

Passionate about nurturing the next generation of dancers, Patrick teaches in Hollywood, CA to bring excellence in performance and education.


Ryann Alvarez
Contemporary


Ryann Alvarez trained at Murrieta Dance Project in Murrieta, California under the direction of Erin Babbs. She is well versed and has trained in all styles of dance, and is best known for her work in the styles of jazz, lyrical, and contemporary. She has also been commended for her work in the exploration of the creative fusion of these styles. During her extensive training, Ryann was consistently awarded scholarships as well as regional and national titles within the competitive dance industry. 

Ryann is represented by MSA Talent Agency, one of the most exclusive agencies in Los Angeles, where she has danced alongside some of the industry’s best. Along with performing, Ryann developed a passion for teaching and choreographing, which she began at the age of 15. She was honored to travel with KAR to Australia in 2018 to teach hundreds of dancers in Perth and Sydney for some of the best studios in the country. Recently, she was the recipient of KAR’s Choreographer of the Year Award in 2021 and 2022, as well as the Antoine Olds Achievement Award in 2022. Currently, Ryann continues to teach and choreograph across the USA from coast to coast. Her students are constantly recognized for winning countless regional, national, and international awards. 

In every class Ryann teaches, she hopes each dancer will feel inspired and challenged in both their movement and musicality, while keeping an open mind and dancing from the heart.



Sloan-Taylor Rabinor
Jazz Funk


Sloan-Taylor Rabinor is a celebrated dancer and emerging fitness expert, joining the KAR Dance Convention as our newest faculty member. Raised and trained in Phoenix, Arizona, Sloan's dancing prowess shone through early on when she bagged her first national title at the age of 17 at The Pulse dance convention. This victory marked the beginning of her illustrious dance career, leading her to assist esteemed choreographers such as Brian Friedman, Laurieann Gibson, Wade Robson, and Mia Michaels.

In 2009, Sloan relocated to Los Angeles, where her exceptional talent catapulted her into a role as a backup dancer for the pop music sensation, Lady Gaga. She debuted in the 2009 VMA performance and has since danced in three of Gaga's world tours - The Artpop Ball, Born this Way Ball, and Monsterball. Her notable appearances extend to music videos such as GUY, Applause, Bad Romance, and Telephone.

Sloan's dynamic portfolio extends far beyond one artist. She has displayed her talents alongside a constellation of stars, including Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber, Nicki Minaj, Rosalia, Panic at the Disco, Kelly Clarkson, Halsey, Fletcher, Gwen Stefani, and Avril Lavigne. With Selena Gomez, she is seen in the music video Come and Get it, while her performances have been featured on a wide array of shows, including Ellen, X Factor (UK), Oprah, AMA’s, Grammy's, Billboard Awards, and VMA’s. Her versatility was evident in her appearances on Glee, where she portrayed a hardcore Cheerio, thrilling audiences with her compelling Janet Jackson mashup.

While forging a successful career in dance, Sloan has also pursued her passion for fitness. She achieved her yoga and Pilates certifications between tours, even having the privilege to train Lady Gaga in these disciplines. Presently, she is studying to become a health coach and personal trainer, aiming to harmoniously blend her passions for dance and fitness.

Now a valued faculty member of the KAR Dance Convention, Sloan is eager to impart her rich experience and fervor for dance and fitness. We eagerly anticipate the inspiring journey our students will undertake under her expert guidance.


Will Simmons
Hip Hop


William “Big Will” Simmons is a professional dancer and award winning choreographer who has danced and worked with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. He started training in Ballet and Tap at the age of 5, and then fell in love with Hip Hop at age 7 at Team Millennium in Fullerton, California. He auditioned for ABDC Season 5 Winners Poreotics junior team, Miniotics in 2009, where he began his foundational training of Popping. He then joined MSA Talent Agency and has been working professionally ever since.

Will danced on Ellen with Miranda Cosgrove, Justin Bieber’s Purpose Tour in L.A., Macy’s Glamourama U.S. Tour, and in Just Dance Disney Party. Further strengthening his Hip Hop foundation, he joined a team called GRaVy Babies and trained under many noted choreographers including Nappytabs, Dave Scott, and Kinjaz in his early years.

Prominent names in the industry he’s worked with also include Chris Brown, Jason Derulo, Missy Elliott, Janet Jackson, Prince, Lil Nas X, BTS, and TLC, for which he is currently a tour dancer. One of his most memorable moments was working with Childish Gambino in the iconic “This is America” video. He’s choreographed for various summer tours, and was the main choreographer for his role as a Mouseketeer on Disney’s “Club Mickey Mouse”, and most recently was a choreographer for NBC’s newest dance show, “Dancing with Myself”.

Will is currently a teacher at Millennium Dance Complex in Los Angeles, California. He continues to have sold-out workshops as he fulfills his passion of traveling the world, teaching and mentoring the next generation of dancers.

Will’s goal in every class is to elevate the potential of every single student while leading with their love of dance.



Your Dancers
Will Thank You!

Convention Price List / 6 classes + showcase at only $235

6 Classes

$185
 Jazz
 Tap
 Contemporary
 Hip Hop
 Musical Theater
 Audition Workshop

6 Classes +
Protege Performer Audition +
1 Parent Observer Band

$255
 Jazz
 Tap
 Contemporary
 Hip Hop
 Musical Theater
 Audition Workshop

$20 Parent Observer Band

Register Now