Kayla Borsari Shaw is a native of Southbury, Connecticut. Her passion started early when she entered the competitive world of dance at age 5. Well versed in all styles, Kayla grew up training in diverse creative atmospheres. During her years as a competitive dancer, Kayla received many Overall and National Title recognitions. Her love for dance led her to pursue the art form as she attended, on scholarship, The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA, where she earned her Bachelors of Fine Arts Degree in Dance.
Kayla relocated to Los Angeles, California upon graduation in 2014. She performed as a member of five professional dance companies, including Jason Janas’ tap company Co.Mmit where she was an original member. Co.Mmit debuted its very own 25 Live Show at Dancerpalooza in 2017. The company opened Jason’s self choreographed and directed show “Unvery’d” in July 2018 which was also performed at the American Tap Festival in San Diego, CA.
Kayla performed and choreographed for Los Angeles based company, LA Unbound, an organization of dancers and choreographers of all dance styles collaborating to create unique showcases. Kayla has acted in plays at The Next Stage Theater in Hollywood, CA in addition to other dance and acting commercial work, as well as appearing in several music videos with Universal Records and Iceland Film. Kayla’s had the privilege of dancing at venues such as the Staples Center and Madison Square Garden, opening for headliners Jennifer Lopez and Pitbull.
In addition to performing, Kayla has always been a natural leader and teacher. It brings her great joy to share her love for dance with her students. Kayla has instructed and set work for various studios throughout Los Angeles, Orange County, and the tri state area. She was an instructor and choreographer at various studios in the Los Angeles area, including Elite Dance and Performing Arts Center, Garri Dance Studio, where she had the opportunity to teach dance in the Burbank United School District, and Los Angeles Dance Academy where she was the director of their competition academy. Over the years, Kayla has received choreography awards at competitions such as National Dance Showcase, Star Power National Finals, Royal Dance Competition, and Hall Of Fame Dance Challenge. Kayla is the co-director of Nocturna Entertainment, a variety nightlife performance company.
In 2021, after nearly a decade in Los Angeles, Kayla and her new husband Kyle relocated to the east coast. In June 2022, they welcomed their daughter Stella into the world. It’s a dream come true for Kayla to return to her dance home at Seven Star School of Performing Arts. She is thrilled to begin her third season with SSSPA!
In addition to teaching, Kayla is honored to be the newest adjudicator and judge for Applause Talent for the 2023-2024 competition season. Nothing makes her happier than sharing her passion and artistry with young dancers.
