Meet Kylie Redding & Courtney Skye of East Valley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kylie Redding & Courtney Skye.

Hi Kylie & Courtney, Courtney, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Abstraction Dance Company was founded in November 2022 with the mission of uniting dancers from across Arizona to connect, train, and inspire, regardless of their background, age, dance studio affiliation, or ability. The name “Abstraction” reflects our commitment to bringing “abstract” concepts to life through dance and videography.

Our goal was to create a space where dancers of all ages could truly be themselves, forge friendships, and grow through their art. We believe in the unifying power of dance and wanted to create a unique environment where every dancer feels valued and included. Our overarching objective was to unite dancers from across Arizona, providing a platform for dance training that goes beyond studio boundaries.

We currently provide contemporary and fusion dance training for all ages and skill levels, featuring both company programs and weekly classes open to the public. Our company program includes over 70 dancers who collaborate to bring our abstract, artistic, and innovative ideas to life. We focus heavily on content creation, camera work, and developing concept-driven dance videos.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting and growing Abstraction Dance Company has come with its share of challenges. As a small business, we faced initial hurdles in building a strong community and attracting dancers. It was essential for us to create a welcoming environment that appealed to a diverse range of individuals, but this required extensive outreach and engagement efforts. We needed to establish a solid reputation in a competitive dance community, which involved not only consistent marketing but also crafting unique opportunities that highlighted our distinctive approach to dance.

Navigating logistical challenges, such as funding the business and finding appropriate rehearsal spaces, was also a significant hurdle. We worked tirelessly, often investing personal resources to keep our vision alive. Balancing our creative aspirations with the practicalities of running a business required us to be adaptable and resourceful.

Overcoming these challenges has been a profound learning experience. Our focus on building a strong sense of community within the Arizona dance scene has paid off, allowing us to cultivate a loyal following. This dedication has ultimately helped us thrive and expand our offerings over the years, positioning Abstraction Dance Company as a vibrant hub for all dancers.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
About Abstraction Dance Company’s founders & directors:

Kylie Redding:
Kylie Redding, a Minneapolis native, began her dance journey at age 4 and honed her craft at the St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists, exploring various styles. Her diverse career includes performances with the Minnesota Timberwolves, collaborations with renowned artists, and eight years of teaching dance. As the co-founder and director of Abstraction Dance Company in Arizona, Kylie fosters a vibrant community for dancers while also utilizing a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, exemplifying her dedication to both the art of dance and uplifting others.

Courtney Skye:
Courtney Skye, a Mesa, Arizona native, has dedicated over two decades to dance, including nearly ten years of professional teaching. As a co-founder and director of Abstraction Dance Company, she blends her expertise in contemporary and musical theater to introduce innovative dance concepts through performances and film. Recognized as “Arizona’s Up and Coming Artist” by Voyage Magazine in 2020, Courtney has also achieved numerous awards for her choreography and actively teaches, adjudicates competitions, and aims to inspire dancers worldwide.

Abstraction Dance Company:
Abstraction Dance Company specializes in contemporary dance training, distinguished by our dynamic choreography, captivating visuals, and compelling storytelling. Over the past three years, we have experienced remarkable growth, allowing us to create opportunities for dancers who may not receive recognition elsewhere. What sets us apart is our non-competitive stance and our independence from any specific studios, enabling us to welcome both studio-affiliated and independent dancers into our community. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where creativity thrives, and every dancer can shine.

What’s next?
Abstraction Dance Company is committed to future growth and expansion, with the goal of welcoming more dancers and team members who align with our vision. We aim to cultivate a following that extends beyond Arizona, creating a vibrant community that resonates with dance enthusiasts nationwide. Our ultimate aspiration is to become a recognizable name across the country, attracting dancers who are eager to experience our unique training environment and opportunities. We hope to inspire a diverse range of talent and elevate the art of contemporary dance on a larger scale.

Contact Info:

• Website: abstractiondancecompany.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abstractiondancecompany/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AbstractionDanceCompany

Image Credits
Courtney Skye Photography