Hey!

Meet Our Artistic Director

Kelly King

Founder & Artistic Director, Golden Ballet Theater

A Beautiful Dance Education Begins With Being Seen.

For more than 28 years, I have had the privilege of helping dancers discover what they are capable of.

And one of the most beautiful things I've learned is that every dancer has something extraordinary within them—something that deserves to be nurtured with patience, understanding, and exceptional teaching.

I believe dance education should be an experience where students feel encouraged to explore, inspired to grow, and supported as they develop both their technique and their confidence.

Whether I'm welcoming a three-year-old into their very first ballet class or guiding an experienced dancer through a challenging movement, my intention is the same: to help each student discover the joy of learning, the beauty of movement, and a deeper trust in themselves.

The Art of Teaching With Compassion and Excellence

My journey as a dance educator began in 1998.

Over the years, I've come to understand that being an accomplished dancer and being an exceptional teacher are two very different things.

Teaching is an art of its own.

It requires more than knowing the steps. It requires understanding how students learn, how their bodies develop, and how to communicate something complex in a way that feels achievable.

Sometimes a student needs a technical correction. Sometimes they need a new explanation. And sometimes what they need most is encouragement and the opportunity to discover that they really can do something they once thought was impossible.

I believe that the responsibility of an educator is to keep learning, keep listening, and keep discovering new ways to reach the student standing in front of them.

At Golden Ballet Theater, we bring that philosophy into our classrooms through thoughtful instruction, progressive training, and a genuine respect for every dancer's individual journey.

A Lifelong Commitment to Learning

One of the greatest gifts of my career has been the opportunity to learn from extraordinary artists and educators.

In the summer of 2026, I traveled to London to continue my professional education with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), taking another important step toward earning my RAD teaching certification.

I am currently working toward that certification with mentorship from Ms. Vera Stephenson, an RAD Examiner, and guidance from RAD faculty. Even after 28 years of teaching, I believe there is always more to discover.

Continuing my education allows me to refine my understanding of ballet technique, child development, and teaching methodology—and bring that knowledge back to the students and teachers at Golden Ballet Theater.

For me, professional growth isn't simply about earning another credential. It's about becoming an even better educator for the people who place their trust in our school.

More Than Learning to Dance

I believe that the integrity we develop through movement can become a foundation for integrity in how we live.

When students learn to approach a challenge with patience, perseverance, and respect for themselves, they are practicing skills that can extend far beyond the dance studio.

My hope is that every student who walks through our doors discovers something meaningful about themselves.

Perhaps it's the courage to try something new.

Perhaps it's the satisfaction of mastering a difficult movement.

Or perhaps it's the simple joy of realizing they belong, exactly as they are, while continuing to grow into everything they can become.

This is why I created Golden Ballet Theater.

To offer an education where beautiful technique and compassionate teaching belong together.

And where every dancer has the opportunity to feel seen, supported, and inspired.

With warmth,

Kelly King
Founder & Artistic Director
Golden Ballet Theater

Education, Professional Training & Experience

28 Years of Dance Education | Teaching Since 1998

Academic Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance — University of Arizona
Training at North Carolina School of the Arts

Royal Academy of Dance

RAD Teacher Certification — In Progress
Professional development in London, Summer 2026
Ongoing mentorship with RAD Examiner Vera Stephenson and guidance from RAD faculty
RAD Intermediate Examination — Distinction
RAD Grade 7 Examination — Distinction
RAD Advanced 1 Examination — Merit