Damian Keilhauer

From an early age, dance has been at the heart of Damian’s life. Beginning at just four years old, they entered the competitive dance world by age eight with a focus on hip hop—a passion that soon expanded into jazz, contemporary, tap, ballet, and musical theatre. By fourteen, they joined the renowned Tremaine Dance Company as a performer and assistant, remaining with the company until eighteen. Along the way, they trained under acclaimed choreographers including Marty Dew, Anze Skrube, Asher Walker, Christina Grady, Derrick Schrader, Laurie Johnson, Keri Legrand, and many others, while traveling to Los Angeles and Chicago for masterclasses that broadened their artistry.
 

Specializing in hip hop and street styles—with a particular focus on musicality and waving—Damian also brings those techniques into contemporary and jazz funk, creating a unique fusion that resonates with audiences and students alike. Their performance career includes standout moments such as winning 1st place in North America with Barrio Dance Factory at the World of Dance Finals in 2024, earning 2nd place at World of Dance Chicago in 2025, and appearing in gala performances at Tremaine Dance Conventions and university showcases at UW Madison.
 

As both a teacher and choreographer, Damian has been sharing their artistry since age fifteen. They have taught competitive hip hop and jazz at Synergy Dance Academy since nineteen, while also leading masterclasses, coaching competition teams, and assisting top industry choreographers. Their choreography has earned numerous awards, including multiple first-place overall honors at competitions, alongside recognition for solo and group works.
 

For Damian, dance is more than movement—it is an extension of spirit. “When I dance, I let the spirit of dance take over my body and drive me to move in the way it wishes to be seen. When I teach, I live for the connection between dancer and music—the kind of connection that creates an unforgettable experience.” This philosophy shapes every performance and class, inspiring dancers to discover their own voices through movement.