Kieran has danced his way to US success
A Paisley-born dancer is following his dream of performing on stage in a major tour around America.
Kieran Macdonald grew up in Glenburn and went to St Peter’s Nursery and St Peter’s Primary School.
He started dancing at PACE youth theatre and Razzmataz Theatre School before he and his family emigrated to Canada.
Now aged 23 he defied school bullies to pursue his love of dance under the direction of Shelley Tookey at Shelley’s Dance Company where he submerged himself in every genre offered.
In 2008 he moved from Edmonton, Canada to live and work in LA, aged just 20.
He admitted it was a tough time, often having to choose between paying for food or dance lessons.
But his hard work has paid off and he is now touring the States as a demonstrator on NUVO Dance Convention under the direction of world-renowned dancer, instructor, and choreographer Travis Wall among others.
Kieran’s also appeared on stage as part of The Marvelous Mrs Maisel tour and danced for Canadian singers Alessia Cara and Shawn Hook.
He said:“It’s honestly such a dream come true and so surreal to be living my dream of being a professional dancer.
“I’m so grateful to be doing what I love everyday and I constantly have to pinch myself because it doesn’t seem real.”
Kieran has family in Johnstone and Clydebank and his brother Conor moved back to Linwood recently to pursue his career as a professional footballer.
He said he tries to keep in touch with the Scottish side of his family as much as possible.
“Every couple of years I try to come back to visit family and friends,”he said.
“It’s definitely hard having my family halfway across the world but FaceTime for sure helps.”
Kieran’s determined to continue his career on stage with his ultimate dream of dancing for Ariana Grande on stage.
And he had this advice for any keen dancers hoping to make a career out of their passion.
“I would say always work hard, be willing to learn and stay humble!
“Never give up on your dreams, always follow your heart and surround yourself with kind, genuine people.
“If you focus your energy on putting in the work, hours and training you’ll begin to see tremendous pay off and growth.”