34 - Teya Wild: Creating a dance career in both Canada & the US (Disney’s Zombies, SYTYCD Canada, Taylor Swift, Descendants)

Episode Summary: Teya Wild, a dynamic Canadian-born dancer and choreographer now based in Los Angeles, shares an engaging overview of her expansive career. From her early days at Dance Co. in Vancouver to her current successes in LA and abroad, Teya's journey is marked by her adaptability and commitment to her craft. Menida Fortunato introduces Teya, highlighting her impressive resume which includes roles in TV shows like "So You Think You Can Dance Canada" and Disney's "Zombies." Teya's dance journey, fueled by her mother's support and various styles training, began at the tender age of 8 and flourished through her high school years into a professional career. She navigated the move to LA after rigorous planning and savings, obtaining a visa with the help of her mentor, Nina. Teya discusses the pivotal moments and the challenges of breaking into the competitive LA dance scene, including the daunting audition rooms filled with hopeful dancers. Her persistence and networking led to significant opportunities, such as working with Taylor Swift and choreographing a music video, experiences that underline the importance of versatility and professionalism in the dance industry. Show Notes: (0:03) Teya´s dance career, from childhood to professional work in LA and abroad. (8:33) Moving to LA, finding an agent, and navigating auditions. (13:20) Dance career, experience, and versatility. (18:19) Working with Taylor Swift (23:40) Zombie movie production with a focus on the choreographer's experience. (29:25) Pursuing dance career goals, including cruise ship auditions and choreography. (35:36) Body types and height requirements for cruise ship performers. (39:08) Auditioning for movie sets as a dancer, with advice on age, appearance, and personality. (43:16) Auditioning and booking jobs in the entertainment industry. (49:41) Acting and dancing career paths for a 13-year-old girl. (57:01) Self-tape auditions, dance training, and mentorship. Biography: Teya Wild is a Canadian born dancer, choreographer and creative who now resides in Los Angeles, California. She began working professionally as a child, so she is no stranger to the limelight. As a kid, Teya began her career as an actor, and appeared in the movies Head Over Heels and A Storm In Summer; in TV shows Sesame Street and The Outer Limits; and in commercials for Radio Disney, Kohl’s, AmSouth, Kodak and Crystal Light. Despite the potential with her acting career, there was no denying Teya’s passion for dance. Teya’s training and outgoing personality led her to one of Canadian TV’s most notable stages when she was chosen as a contestant and finalist for Season 4 of So You Think You Can Dance.  For many years, Teya has been building strong credits in both the Canadian and American dance community. TV credits include The Voice and Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist (NBC), Riverdale and DC’S Legends Of Tomorrow (CW), The Twilight Zone (Paramount+), as well as The American Music Awards, The Grammy Awards, and The BET Awards. Film credits include Step Up 5, Christmas Chronicles 2, Nickelodeon’s Spectacular!, Center Stage 2: Turn It Up, as well as numerous films for Disney: Sneakerella, Descendants 2 & 3, Freaky Friday, and Zapped. Teya has also toured with US recording artist Hailee Steinfeld, and danced alongside Taylor Swift. Over the years, Teya has also been fortunate enough to work closely with world renowned choreographers Kenny Ortega, Jamal Sims, Luther Brown, Christopher Scott, Aakomon Jones, Draico Johnson, Nappytabs, Fatima Robinson, Tony Testa, and Keone & Mari. Teya has most recently moved into the role of choreographer where she continues to thrive as a leader and creator. Recent credits include Disney’s Zombies 3 & 4 (Associate Choreographer), The Emmy Awards (Assistant Choreographer) and movement coaching for actor/singer Laura Morano. Connect on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/teyawild https://www.facebook.com/profile.php