Kayleen Beard was born in Nevada County, California. She began dancing at 10 years old. She trained at Holt Ballet Conservatory under Yelena Holt, Amy Schultze, and Tsa’gyur Priya Dorje. Holt Ballet gaver her many performance opportunities such as, Arabian Pas, Head Mirliton in The Nutcracker. Kitri’s friend in Don Quotie, the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland and, a Little Swan in Swan Lake.
In summer 2024, Kayleen attended Tulsa Ballet’s summer program; then in summer 2025, Kayleen’s journey with San Diego Ballet began. She attended the Preprofessional summer program with SDB and was then offered a Trainee position on a Full Scholership. The 2026/2027 season with be Kayleens second year with San Diego Ballet.
- What ignited your passion for dance?
I fell in love with moving to music
- What inspired you to pursue a professional dance career?
I loved to watch my peers grow out of our small town studio and pursue being a professional, and I knew I wanted to do the same.
- What is your favorite thing about being a dancer?
I love always working on something, oh and all the sparkles
- What is your biggest dream for your dance career?
I one day hope to perform Odette/Odile from Swan Lake
- When you are not pirouetting and perfecting your pliés, what brings you joy?
I love to read and crochet at the beach
- What is the most transformative experience you’ve had as a dancer?
The power of performing in the Corps De Ballet
- What is your favorite ballet?
Swan Lake
- What is your favorite role you have performed at San Diego Ballet and what is a role you would like to perform in the future?
I loved performing Mirlitons in The Nutcracker, and I hope to be Rose also from the Nutcracker.
- What is your favorite local spot in San Diego?
I love to go to Sunset cliffs and watch the sunset