Leah Kelly began her dance training in the Cecchetti method at a young age under the direction of Cynthia Kiehnau of Virginia Civic Ballet. During this time, she had the opportunity to perform as Swanhilda, Sugar Plum, Snow Queen, and the Lilac Fairy as well as complete the Grade 6 examinations. She has completed intensives and trainings with Louisville Ballet and Thomas Garret and Maggie Small of Richmond Ballet. Leah also had the opportunity to study as an apprentice with Tuscan Ballet and explore dance opportunities in Germany. When she first moved to Chicago, she joined Ardent Dance Company as an understudy. This is now her seventh season with Ardent.