134 - Kelly Sweeney: Disney’s Descendants: The Rise of Red, Zombies, SYTYCD, DWTS, Laker Girls, JLO.

Interview Date: August 4th, 2025Episode Summary:In this episode of The Business of Dance Podcast, Kelly Sweeney shares her journey from starting dance at age 10 to becoming one of the busiest teachers, choreographers, and creatives in Los Angeles. Originally from Mexico and raised in LA, Kelly talks about growing up bilingual, moving quickly through the competition world, and making an early shift into commercial dance and hip-hop training. She reflects on getting signed young, building her teaching career from the ground up by renting her own studio space, and using social media intentionally to create visibility for both her choreography and her students. Her story is a strong example of how consistency, self-belief, and a clear understanding of your strengths can build a sustainable career in dance.Kelly also opens up about pivotal career moments, including choreographing for Shakira, creating the viral Descendants “Red” dance, working with Disney again for Zombies 4, and stepping into the convention circuit with Press Play. She speaks candidly about the sacrifices that come with an unpredictable dance career, the importance of finding balance, and why comparison can be one of the biggest traps for dancers. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes confidence, cleanliness, performance quality, leadership, and health, while reminding dancers to stop chasing someone else’s lane and instead build a career around what makes them unique.Show NotesKelly started dance later than mostCompetition dance quickly became serious trainingHip-hop training shifted her career pathRenting her own studio built momentumStudent videos helped grow her platformShakira was her first big choreography breakRed became a major viral momentPress Play marks a new chapterComparison can block your growthHealth and balance sustain longevityBiography:Kelly Sweeney is a dynamic choreographer, educator, and creative force with a diverse career across television, film, live entertainment, theater, and professional sports. Born in Mexico and raised in Los Angeles, Kelly began choreographing in her early teens, launching her professional choreography career at just 18 years old.Her credits span some of the industry’s most recognized stages and screens. Kelly served as a choreographer for NBC’s Dancing with Myself, featuring Shakira and Nick Jonas, and has assisted on major dance television productions including So You Think You Can Dance and Dancing with the Stars. Most recently, she contributed to Disney’s Descendants: The Rise of Red, further expanding her work in film and commercial entertainment.Kelly is also currently choreographing for top NBA entertainment teams, including the Laker Girls and the Knicks City Dancers, while continuing to collaborate with emerging music artists on live performances, creative direction, and music videos. Her recent work also includes choreography for Eurovision finalist and performer Silia Kapsis.With roots in musical theater, Kelly brings a strong storytelling foundation to her work. She has choreographed productions including Seussical and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat for Sierra Madre Playhouse, blending technical excellence, performance quality, and emotional expression.Known for her versatility, creativity, and ability to bring out the best in dancers, Kelly continues to make her mark as a sought-after choreographer and educator across the entertainment industry.Connect on Social Media:https://www.instagram.com/kellysweeney1/