The Business of Dance

Latest Episodes:

52 - Shawn Byfield: (Hairspray, Bojangles, Blues Brothers 2000) Jan 12, 2025

Show notes

Episode Summary:

Shawn Byfield, an accomplished Canadian performer, choreographer, MC, and author. With an extensive career spanning film, television, and live performances, Shawn shares his personal journey, starting from a hyperactive child to becoming a seasoned dance professional. He recounts how his passion for dance ignited after watching the legendary Gregory Hines perform tap dance on television, leading him to pursue a diverse range of dance styles and eventually transition into the professional dance world.

Shawn discusses the importance of creating your own opportunities, emphasizing how dancers should take initiative instead of waiting for their big break. He also dives into the lessons he’s learned from his experiences in the competitive dance world and how it shaped his artistic growth.

In addition, Shawn shares insights from his latest project, You Came to Slay, a workbook designed to help dancers boost their confidence through thought-provoking questions. The episode highlights the significance of embracing feedback, overcoming imposter syndrome, and setting big, meaningful goals to achieve success in the dance industry.

Show Notes:

(00:00) - Introduction to Shawn Byfield, performer, choreographer, MC, and author
(03:00) - Early dance journey, inspired by Gregory Hines and discovering tap
(10:00) - Competitive dance, growing through competitions and learning
(12:30) - Going professional, deciding to pursue dance full-time
(17:30) - Performing highlights, roles in Hairspray and Pixels
(25:00) - Choreography career, winning a Dora Award for I Think I Can
(30:00) - Becoming an MC, transitioning to MCing and energizing audiences
(35:00) - You Came to Slay, a workbook to boost dancer confidence
(42:00) - How to handle and grow from feedback
(47:00) - Advice for multifaceted dancers, exploring different dance paths
(52:00) - Overcoming imposter syndrome, staying true to passions
(57:00) - The power of setting big career goals
(01:02:00) - Final thoughts, building a sustainable and successful dance career

Biography:

Shawn Byfield, Canada's Favourite Emcee, Entertainment Coach, and Distinguished Award Recipient, and performer has left an indelible mark on the Canadian entertainment industry.

As an acclaimed performer, Shawn's credits include memorable appearances in films like "COBU 3D" (2012), "Turn The Beat Around," "HAIRSPRAY," and "Blues Brothers 2000," showcasing his captivating on-screen presence. He has also graced the stage in productions such as "Taal," "Bojangles," "Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen," "The Music Man," and "The Ladies Man," further solidifying his status as a versatile entertainer.

Shawn's talents extend beyond the screen and stage, as he has lent his charisma to TV commercials for brands like Dentyne, Best Buy, The Bay, Got Milk, Rogers Video, McDonald's, Molson Canadian, and Joe Fresh, becoming a sought-after talent in the advertising world.

Shawn has been featured in esteemed publications such as the Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, National Post, Now Magazine, Eye Weekly, Toronto Sun, and Canadian Living Magazine, offering valuable insights into the entertainment industry.

In addition to his media presence, Shawn's engaging personality and wealth of knowledge have made him a frequent guest on popular television networks, including SLICE Network, Much Music, CBC's The National, Rogers TV, and Breakfast Television.

His accomplishments include prestigious awards such as: Canada's DORA AWARD for Choreography (Canada's version of a Tony Award) and nominations for the GEMINI AWARDS and BLACK CANADIANS AWARDS. These accolades reflect his exceptional talent and industry recognition.

Furthermore, Shawn Byfield is the author of the transformative NEW playbook, 'You Came To Slay!' This empowering guide goes beyond dance steps, offering a mental pass to unlock a dancer's true potential.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/shawnbyfield

https://www.facebook.com/ShawnByfield

51 - Traci Reszetylo: Leading the Line as Rockette Dance Captain Dec 22, 2024

Show notes

Episode Summary:

Menina Fortunato interviews Traci Reszetylo, a 22-year veteran of the Radio City Rockettes, to discuss her incredible career and journey in the dance world. Traci reflects on her early dance training in Pittsburgh, her move to New York, and her audition experiences for the Rockettes, eventually landing the role on her second attempt. She shares the challenges and rewards of performing with the Rockettes, including her experiences on tour, in prestigious events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and her role as dance captain.

Traci also talks about her passion for teaching, which led her to create Exactitude Dance during the pandemic. She explains how the studio evolved from online classes to an in-person space in Brooklyn, where she combines precision dance with other genres and offers career development workshops. Traci offers valuable advice for aspiring dancers, emphasizing the importance of consistency, humility, and building relationships in the industry. She shares audition tips, time management strategies, and insights on how dancers can create a sustainable career in dance. This episode is filled with inspiration and practical advice for dancers at all stages of their careers.

Show Notes:

(00:00) - Introduction to Traci Reszetylo
(02:15) - Early dance training in Pittsburgh and competing
(05:30) - Auditioning for the Radio City Rockettes and getting the job
(10:00) - Performing with the Rockettes: Tours, TV shows, and events
(15:30) - Becoming a Dance Captain and the team-oriented culture of the Rockettes
(20:00) - Starting Exactitude Dance during the pandemic and growing the business
(25:30) - The evolution of Exactitude Dance and its workshops
(30:45) - Balancing a dance career with family life and other pursuits
(35:00) - Advice on auditioning: staying in the moment and managing nerves
(40:00) - The importance of consistency and humility in dance
(45:30) - Final thoughts on building a successful dance career and long-term sustainability

Biography:

Traci, the founder of Exactitude Dance & dancer for Radio City Rockettes, attended Point Park University focusing on jazz and musical theater. While attending Point Park, Traci performed in the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera's Richard Rodgers Awards, and also performed as a dancer/ singer for Royal Caribbean. She was then cast in Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s production of Chicago, performing the role of “Liz” at the Byham Theater.

Traci moved to NY and was chosen to be a Radio City Rockette in 2002. Her first four years as a Rockette, she performed on tour in several cities, and in 2006, started performing at Radio City Music Hall. She has been performing there to the present date. Traci was selected as the Assistant Dance Captain in 2009. In 2010 was cast as a swing, and in 2014 Dance Captain/ Assistant Choreographer for 5 years.

Traci has performed in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Today Show, Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting, Dancing With the Stars, America’s Got Talent, Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show, Tony Awards, Live with Kelly and Ryan, Ellen, and the Wendy Williams Show. Traci participated in Oprah’s celebration for the 10th anniversary of her O Magazine, and also traveled to Vienna, Austria, where she performed in Diane Von Furstenberg’s fashion show at the Life Ball.

Traci has led & assisted auditions, taught for Rockettes Summer Intensive and assisted in teaching and staging the Christmas Spectacular. Her passion is teaching and working with her students. She cannot wait to share her knowledge of precision dance and create exactitude in you!

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/tracirez

https://www.facebook.com/traci.reszetylo.167

50 - Bloc Agent: Stephanie Landwehr: "Navigating the Dance Industry with Agent & Former" Dec 15, 2024

Show notes

Episode Summary:

Menina Fortunato interviews Stephanie Landwehr, a seasoned professional in the dance industry, who has worked with top artists such as Cher, Tina Turner, Jessica Simpson, and Macy Gray. Stephanie now works as a dance agent with Block Talent Agency, helping dancers advance their careers.

Stephanie shares her journey from a competitive dancer to a choreographer and, eventually, to an agent. She provides invaluable insights into how dancers can advance their careers by building relationships with choreographers, agents, and casting directors. Stephanie also talks about the challenges and trends in the dance industry, including the shift from large auditions to direct bookings and the importance of proactive career management. She discusses what agents look for in dancers, tips for submitting to agencies, and how to manage finances as a dancer.

Show Notes:

(0:00) – Introduction to the episode and Stephanie Landwehr
(2:15) – Stephanie’s transition from dancer to agent
(5:00) – The importance of building relationships in the industry
(8:00) – Current trends in casting: direct bookings and submission processes
(12:00) – The shift from large auditions to direct bookings
(15:00) – Tips for headshots: what agents look for in professional photos
(18:00) – How dancers can leverage social media to enhance their careers
(22:00) – Managing a bi-coastal career and building relationships across cities
(25:00) – Financial advice for dancers: saving, budgeting, and multiple income streams
(30:00) – Q&A with mentees: injury management and staying proactive in your career
(35:00) – Building and maintaining professionalism as a dancer
(40:00) – How to get noticed by agents and the casting process
(45:00) – Importance of versatility in dance training
(50:00) – Final thoughts on dancing, agenting, and career longevity

Biography:

Stephanie Landwehr has been dancing for her entire life. She feels fortunate to have had an incredibly varied and diverse dance career before crossing over to the agenting world. She worked internationally in all media - from stages in Seoul, Korea, to film sets in Rome, Italy; from the Los Angeles Opera to Cher at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas. Stephanie had the privilege to dance with many music artists, including Panic at the Disco, Cher, Tina Turner, Jessica Simpson, Hole, Chemical Brothers, and Macy Gray.

She danced in numerous television shows, including Dancing with the Stars, Penny Dreadful, Veep, Dead to Her, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, American Housewife, and Lucifer. Some of her film appearances include La La Land, Valley Girl (2020), The Muppets, Gangster Squad, and commercials for Ford, AT&T, Subway, Pepsi, K-mart, Chase Bank, and The Gap's iconic "swing khakis" commercial. Her experience on stages and film sets naturally led her to add ‘choreographer’ to her list of professional achievements. Her choreography can be seen in the films Give Me an A, Too Late, and Mafia!; in the Green Day "Last of the American Girls" music video, and commercials for Chase Bank, K-mart, Jell-O, and Burger King. As a dance educator, Stephanie was principal faculty at the Academy of Musical and Dramatic Arts (AMDA), and previously on faculty at Edge Performing Arts Center in Los Angeles and Broadway Dance Center in New York City.

In early 2024, she enthusiastically jumped into the role of dance agent and now works for Bloc Talent Agency. She’s excited to continue exploring the entertainment industry through a new lens and sharing her love of dance and her vast industry experience with up-and-coming professionals and professional hopefuls.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/stephanielandwehr

https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.landwehr.14

49 - G Madison IV (Kendrick Lamar, Rihanna, Mariah Carey) USA to Australia Dec 08, 2024

Show notes

Episode Summary:

Menina Fortunato interviews the accomplished G Madison IV, a dancer, choreographer, and creative director with a career spanning continents and industries. G shares his journey from self-taught beginnings in San Diego to performing alongside global icons like Mariah Carey, Rihanna, and Kendrick Lamar. Now based in Australia, he reflects on transitioning into musical theater and balancing family life with a thriving career.

G emphasizes the importance of mindset, clarity, and professionalism in building a sustainable dance career. He recounts personal challenges, like being fired from a major project, and offers insights on how setbacks can lead to growth. In a lively Q&A with mentees, G provides practical advice on topics like staying calm in auditions, choosing between opportunities, and the qualities choreographers seek in dancers. The conversation is packed with wisdom and inspiration for aspiring and professional dancers alike, showing that success is about more than talent—it’s about perseverance, consistency, and a clear vision for the future.

Show Notes:

(00:00:00) Introduction
(02:40) Early Career
(10:51) Mindset and Career Lessons
(24:00) Musical Theater Transition
(40:27) Saying No to Big Jobs
(44:25) Q&A Highlights
(44:25) Overcoming Rejection
(52:55) Audition Mindset
(01:03:07) Choosing Opportunities
(01:07:00) Professionalism and Consistency

Biography:

G.Madison IV has thrived in the entertainment industry wearing many different hats for over 20 years. Born in San Diego, California, currently living in Perth, AU with his wife & daughter, G is still hitting the stage whenever possible.

Established in Los Angeles, G’s performed, designed and creative directed worldwide for the industry’s elite: MARIAH CAREY, CHAKA KHAN, RIHANNA, LADY GAGA, ALICIA KEYS, KENDRICK LAMAR, MEGAN THE STALLION, ALUNA GEORGE, CHE'NELLE, CAMILLA CABELLO, GREENDAY and more. Including THE GRAMMYS, ELLEN, DANCING WITH THE STARS, BILLBOARD AWARDS, LIP SYNC BATTLE, PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS, LATIN VIDEO AWARDS, G has most recently been cast in the newest theatrical phenomena live musical, MJ THE MUSICAL, running in AUSTRALIA.

He has only recently involved himself in musical theater, having starred in HAMA PRODUCTIONS’ FAME THE MUSICAL (Crown Theater), & DREW ANTHONY CREATIVES’ ‘CHICAGO, and ‘A CHORUS LINE’ being the first of many. G has collected numerous lessons on and off the stage so he continues expressing his passion to perform, inform and transform local & international talent through movements, music, and personal development. G is beyond grateful to be able to live an abundant life of creativity, traveling the world, providing for his family …and having fun doing it.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/gmadison4

https://www.facebook.com/Gmadison4

Webpage

https://www.made4stage.com

48 - Anita Mann: Dance Legend (Elvis Presley, Solid Gold, Michael Jackson, The Oscars, 5x Emmy Nominated) Nov 24, 2024

Show notes

Episode Summary:

Dance legend Anita Mann shares her remarkable journey, offering insights from her extensive career as a dancer, choreographer, and producer. Menina Fortunato introduces Anita, honoring her as a trailblazer who has received five Emmy nominations, with an impressive array of credits, including Solid Gold, the Muppets, and the Academy Awards.

Anita’s career took off when Elvis Presley, impressed with her work, asked her to assist on his projects. Working with icons like Elvis and Jack Baker provided invaluable experience in choreography and the technical aspects of filmmaking, setting the foundation for her success.

Throughout her career, Anita built opportunities, from creating her own company divisions for cruise ships and casinos to producing television and arena shows. Her work ethic, dedication to learning, and passion for dance propelled her forward, and she actively supports other dancers in their pursuits.

In advice to aspiring dancers, Anita stresses preparation, respect, and persistence in auditions, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with integrity. During a Q&A with mentees, she discusses leveraging social media, her favorite roles, and the transition from performer to business owner.

Anita concludes with a message of gratitude and resilience, emphasizing health and ongoing dedication to dance. She expresses her excitement for the future, including the launch of a new dance hall of fame, inspiring dancers to persevere and keep reaching for their dreams.

Show Notes:

(0:03) Introduction and Background of Anita Mann
(3:10) Early Years and First Dance Experiences
(1:09:27) Audition for NAACP Special and First Professional Job
(1:29:57) Working with Elvis Presley and Early Choreography Career
(1:30:12) Building a Career and Creating Opportunities
(1:32:37) Advice for Aspiring Dancers
(1:33:36) Q&A Session with Mentees
(1:37:36) Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Biography:

Anita Mann has been honored by the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences as one of America's top five contemporary choreographers. She is the recipient of five Emmy Nominations, one Emmy Award and accolades from every corner of the industry.

Her choreography credits include 5 seasons on the 1980s dance television show, “Solid Gold” (earning her two Emmy nominations), "The Muppets Go Hollywood" (her first Emmy nomination), "The Cher Show", "The Jacksons", "The Academy Awards", "The Golden Globe Awards", "Academy of Country Music Awards", "The Miss America Pageant" (earning her first Emmy Award), "The People's Choice Awards", "The Grammy Hall of Fame", "The Emmy's", "The Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon" (earning her another Emmy nomination), "The Great Muppet Caper", "Dick Clark's American Bandstand Live", "Sesame Street Live", "The Mighty Morphin Power Ranger Tour", "Snoopy's World of Magic", "Arthur Live Tour" as well as countless other live, film and television shows including the award-winning show FANTASY, one of the longest running shows in Las Vegas now celebrating 25 years on the Las Vegas Strip! Mann was the Coordinating Producer for the WE Channel TV series, “Dirty Dancing”.

She is the Producer of the pre-school animated musical webisode series, “itty bitty HeartBeats” as well as the President of the Dance Hall of Fame. Anita Mann has danced with and choreographed for Elvis Presley, Lucille Ball, Michael Jackson, Cher, The Muppets, Wayne Brady, Julianne Hough, Adam Lambert and countless other stars while maintaining a four-decade relationship with all the major networks.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/share/1DWwNF5XRe/

47 - Teresa Espinosa: Touring with Janet Jackson & Britney Spears Nov 17, 2024

Show notes

Episode Summary:

Teresa Espinosa, a celebrated dancer and choreographer, joins the conversation to share her incredible journey and insights on building a dance career. Menina Fortunato introduces Teresa, known for her extensive work with icons like Janet Jackson, Britney Spears, and Justin Bieber, as well as her Emmy-nominated choreography on Janet’s “Velvet Rope” special.

Teresa recounts her early inspirations, sparked by icons like Michael and Janet Jackson. After graduating from Cal Arts, her career took off through connections she made at the Roxbury club in Dallas. She recalls her first major break with Janet Jackson’s tour, underscoring the importance of resilience through the emotional ups and downs of auditioning.

As her career progressed, Teresa embraced the power of positive affirmations and manifesting her dreams, which she credits for landing key roles like Britney Spears’ tour. She encourages dancers to believe in themselves and not rely solely on external validation for confidence.

Teresa details her creative process, where improvisation and flexibility allow for authentic expression. Working with Miley Cyrus, she found value in collaborative choreography, showing how openness to others’ ideas enhances creativity.

For young dancers, Teresa emphasizes enjoying the journey, letting go of perfectionism, and trusting their abilities. She concludes with uplifting advice to stay grounded in their love for dance, reminding them they are enough, which she believes is key to success and fulfillment in the industry.

Show Notes:

(0:03) Introduction to Teresa Espinosa
(2:58) Teresa's Early Dance Journey
(8:12) Transition to Professional Dance Career
(17:38) Auditioning and Manifesting Dreams
(25:01) Creative Process and Performance Creation
(40:24) Audition Preparation and Mindset
(44:22) Improvisation and Confidence Building
(56:42) Final Advice and Encouragement

Biography:

Teresa Espinosa is a proud native of Dallas, Texas. After graduating from CalArts, she has been working professionally as a dancer and choreographer for over 2 decades.

Teresa, who early on in her career at the age of 24, was nominated for an Emmy Award for contributing choreography to Janet Jackson’s Velvet Rope HBO Special, and traveled the world as one of her dancers. This auspicious start was a telling sign of a very successful and exciting career.

Teresa’s extensive list of accomplishments includes working with many of the renowned artists of our time, such as Prince, Britney Spears, Missy Elliot, Mariah Carey, Pink, Rihanna, Limp Bizkit, Usher, Hannah Montana/ Miley Cyrus, Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez, Hailee Steinfeld, and Sofia Carson.

Her work as a dancer and choreographer have also appeared in numerous television shows, award shows, commercials, and films.

Some of these credits consist of The Oprah Winfrey Show, Ellen, The X Factor, America’s Best Dance Crew (Beat Freaks), Good Morning America, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Billboard Awards, American Music Awards, Kid’s Choice Awards, Old Navy, Nike, You Got Served, End of Watch, Barbie: The Princess & The Popstar, Magic Mike, and Magic Mike XXL.

She also has worked on the hit TV show, Lip Sync Battle: Channing Tatum vs. Jenna Dewan-Tatum and Joseph Gordon-Levitt vs. Anthony Mackie.

Espinosa’s was an Associate Director/ Choreographer for Magic Mike Live is currently playing at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas.

She was also Co-owner of Debbie Reynold’s Dance Studio in North Hollywood, CA.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/teresa.espinosa22

https://www.facebook.com/share/15L5MEn5dc/

46 - Alex Magno: Madonna, J Lo, Britney, DWTS, SYTYD - Emmy Nominated Choreographer from Brazil Nov 10, 2024

Show notes

Episode Summary:

Menina Fortunato interviews renowned choreographer Alex Magno to explore his inspiring journey from Rio de Janeiro to Los Angeles, where he became an influential figure in the dance world. Menina introduces Alex, celebrating his achievements, including Emmy and World Choreography Awards, and their shared history, as Alex’s scholarship significantly impacted her own dance path.

A turning point came when Alex won a competition sponsored by Paramount Pictures, bringing him to the United States. In Los Angeles, he trained rigorously, embracing diverse dance styles, including tap, and connecting with industry mentors who encouraged his artistic pursuits.

Alex shares career highlights and challenges, from performing in The Nutcracker to working with global icons like Madonna. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, adapting choreography to each dancer’s strengths, and staying disciplined.

For emerging choreographers, Alex advises a focus on collaboration, continual learning, and maintaining a positive, resilient mindset. He underscores the value of authenticity, discipline, and creating a supportive community. Concluding with words of encouragement, Alex urges dancers to remain dedicated to their craft and persevere in pursuit of their dreams.

Show Notes:

(0:03) Introduction and Background of Alex Magno
(5:26) Alex Magno's Early Dance Journey
(8:36) Training and Early Successes
(17:48) Move to the United States
(41:42) Career Highlights and Challenges
(47:25) Advice for Emerging Choreographers
(1:05:46) Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Biography:

ALEXANDRE MAGNO is an Emmy and a WCA (World Choreography Awards) nominated Choreographer, director, and Producer, best known for his work with MADONNA (Girlie Show and Drowned World Tours), BRITNEY SPEARS, JENNIFER LOPEZ, THE PUSSYCAT DOLLS, THE ACADEMY AWARDS, MTV MUSIC AWARDS, , SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE (FOX), DANCING WITH THE STARS (ABC) , YANNI VOICES (PBS and TELEVISA TV SPECIAL), NEODANCE (A Tango Project, Featuring GRAMMY WINNER NESTOR TORRES), BENISE (EMMY WINNER Nights Of Fire PBS Special, along with two other shows: The Spanish Guitar, and FUEGO The Spirit Of Spain - PBS TV Special) ONYX LULLABY (Experimental Dance Film featuring ANNIE LENNOX & DAVID ALLAN STEWART'S Iconic Music: SWEET DREAMS (Are Made Of This) - LIDO DE PARIS (Lido La Tourné), BALLET HISPANICO, MAAPshowseries, and DEEP SLEEP FOR Beat FreaksUTY (A Fashion Dance Show, Presented and Produced by JUSTONEEYE; based on a Fairytale Book created by CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN, as part of LOUBOUTIN'S new collaboration (The Capsule Collection) with Indian Couture Designer SABYASACHI And more….

Drawing on a variety of styles, disciplines, and cultural influences, Mr. MAGNO infuses his work with powerful drama, beauty and sensuality. As a Dance Educator: Mr. Magno is known worldwide, for his unique Latin, cool, sensual fused dance style; and for training today's top dancers, celebrities and choreographers; such as Carrie Ann Inaba, Christina Applegate, Jenna Elfman, Elizabeth Berkley, Carlos Gomes, Brian Friedman, Gil Duldulao, Mandy More, Bobby Newberry, Jillian Meyers, Tony Testa, Jason Parsons to name a few.

This well-deserved recognition celebrates over three decades of the extraordinary career of Alex Magno and further solidifies his status as a leading figure in the world of dance and choreography, sharing this honor among esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award previous recipients like Toni Basil, the Nicholas Brothers, Debbie Allen, Jamie King, Adam Shankman, Vincent Paterson, Janet Jackson, Gene Kelly, Nappy Tabs, Travis Payne, and Twitch.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/alexmagnoofficial

https://www.facebook.com/share/1NpRHUZKq9/

https://www.alexmagno.com/

45 - Miller Daurey: From Star Search Fame to a 20-Year Comeback in Dance in His 40s Nov 03, 2024

Show notes

Episode Summary:

Menina Fortunato interviews Miller Daurey, discussing his remarkable journey from early dance days to a comeback later in life. Miller began dancing at 14, inspired by supportive family members, and soon achieved success with his sister as a dance duo on Star Search, launching his career. His early professional experience includes working with Paula Abdul, winning a scholarship to the prestigious Joffrey Ballet, and performing in major brand commercials. Despite his achievements, Miller eventually transitioned from dance to acting in search of longer-term career stability and better working conditions, a path that led him to New York and Los Angeles.

Returning to dance in his 40s, Miller describes the changes in today’s dance environment, from the focus on social media and class filming to the reduced emphasis on warm-ups. He shares the physical challenges of dancing later in life, especially with injuries, but credits dedicated rehabilitation, yoga, and support from fellow dancers for his continued progress. Miller reflects on the importance of community, noting how others’ encouragement helped him adapt to new styles and techniques.

He offers invaluable advice for young dancers: prioritize self-care, be open to learning, and don’t take life too seriously. Miller’s journey serves as a reminder to stay true to one’s passion, value every experience, and trust that setbacks and successes alike contribute to one’s growth. His story exemplifies resilience, encouraging dancers to focus on their “why” and to embrace dance as both a career and a lifelong joy.

Show Notes:

(0:00) Miller Daurey's Introduction and Early Dance Journey
(1:29) Discovery and Success on Star Search
(9:00) Transition to Working with Paula Abdul
(10:33) Joffrey Ballet and Early Professional Dance Career
(14:51) Challenges and Struggles in the Acting World
(16:16) Return to Dance and Documenting the Journey
(20:45) Adapting to Modern Dance Practices
(29:33) Injuries and Recovery in the Dance Journey
(35:06) Community and Support in the Dance World
(41:24) Advice for the Next Generation of Dancers

Biography:

Miller Daurey is a former professional teen dancer who quit dance at 19 — just when his career was really taking off. In his docuseries, Back To Great, he explores returning to dance training 3 decades later and all that entails. It’s his hope to inspire and remind others… it’s never too late to go back to something you once loved.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/backtogreat

https://www.facebook.com/share/18F1kSET5F/

44 - Kim McSwain: Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, KM Agency Oct 27, 2024

Show notes

Episode Summary:

Kim McSwain, a passionate dancer and teacher with a career spanning from her early beginnings to founding her own dance agency. Kim began dance at age three, developing a strong foundation through intensive ballet training and competitive tap. At age 24, she moved to Los Angeles, navigating financial struggles while working multiple jobs to support her career. Her breakthrough came with high-profile projects for artists like Britney Spears and Michael Jackson. Eventually, Kim transitioned to teaching, which she found deeply fulfilling, especially in inspiring young dancers.

Kim discusses her work with KM Agency, which includes dance programs like The Movement and Blake Stanley Technique, designed to elevate studio standards and support dancers' growth. Her dedication has led her business to success, especially by supporting dance studios recovering post-COVID. Kim emphasizes that proper training for teachers is essential for the industry’s future.

Throughout the episode, Kim advises dancers to pursue their passion, monetize their skills, and persist through challenges. She emphasizes the long-term potential of a dance career, countering the notion that it’s short-lived. During a Q&A, Kim answers questions on breaking into the industry, finding teaching roles, and handling transitions from studio to professional life.

Show Notes:

(0:03) Kim's Early Dance Journey
(6:04) Transition to Los Angeles and Early Career Challenges
(15:27) Career Highlights and Teaching Passion
(16:20) Building a Dance Business and Impacting the Industry
(21:57) Advice for Aspiring Dancers and Industry Insights
(28:01) Q&A Session with Mentees
(40:15) Reflecting on Career and Personal Growth
(55:19) Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Biography:

From an early age, Kim's passion for dance was undeniable. Beginning her training at the tender age of three, she dove into the world of dance with a focus that belied her years. By eight, Kim was dedicating thirty hours a week to ballet, a testament to her dedication and love for the art. Her talent was unmistakable, leading her to clinch third place nationally at a prestigious tap event by the age of twelve, an event sponsored by the renowned tap virtuoso, Gregory Hines. Hines, struck by Kim's exceptional skill, personally visited her studio in Dallas to offer a private lesson, a rare honor that highlighted her early promise.

As Kim turned 24, her journey took her to the vibrant city of Los Angeles. There, her career flourished as she found herself sharing stages and film sets with icons such as Britney Spears, N’Sync, Michael Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, and Ben Affleck. Despite her success in the performance world, Kim felt a compelling draw towards education, choosing to channel her energies into nurturing the next generation of dancers.

Kim's teaching career began with Adrenaline on the convention circuit, quickly escalating to her joining the ranks of JUMP, the world's largest dance convention. Over six years, Kim imparted her knowledge in a variety of styles, from ballet to hip-hop, to thousands of eager students weekly. Her journey continued as she took on the role of Children’s Director at NUVO, focusing on technical excellence and personal growth, earning acclaim for her ability to inspire not just outstanding performers, but outstanding individuals.

Kim's contributions to dance education have been celebrated in notable publications such as Dance Media and Dance Teacher Magazine. Beyond the convention circuit, Kim has lent her expertise as a coach for the DANCE STUDIO OWNERS ASSOCIATION, further cementing her role as a pivotal figure in the dance community.

In a bold move, Kim shifted her focus to the KM Agency, home to the transformative Changing Lives program, and now owns 5 companies: THE MOVEMENT, THE MOMENT, THE METHOD, and CLEAN & CRITIQUE, and BLAKE STANLEY TECHNIQUE.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/share/zuKJwdkdo1Qzzw3e/

https://www.instagram.com/kimmcswain

43 - Kelly Sweeney: Descendants: Rise of Red, Shakira, J Lo Oct 20, 2024

Show notes

Episode Summary:

Kelly Sweeney, a Mexican-American dancer with an impressive career that began at 15. Kelly shares how she transitioned from musical theater and gymnastics to dance after an ankle condition led her to focus on training seriously at age 10. By 15, she had signed with the MSA agency, launching her professional career.

Kelly talks about completing the California High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE) at 16 to work as a legal adult, allowing her to balance her dance career and academics. She also highlights how her bilingualism and dual citizenship have helped her connect with students and colleagues in places like Argentina and Costa Rica. Kelly describes how her choreography for Disney's Descendants Red went viral, attracting attention from music labels and increasing her social media following. She shares her experiences working with Disney and attending the Descendants premiere.

Kelly answers questions about her creative process, favorite jobs (such as performing at the Oscars and working with Shakira), and overcoming creative blocks. She emphasizes the importance of mental health breaks and finding inspiration in music and visuals. Kelly shares the biggest lessons she's learned, including being your own teacher and managing time wisely. She also highlights what she looks for in a dancer—technique, attention to detail, and performance balance.

Kelly praises Jennifer Lopez's work ethic and shares her aspirations for choreographing more music videos and movies. She also talks about the importance of using social media to motivate and inspire others. Kelly discusses how her Latina heritage has played a significant role in her career, advising dancers to embrace and showcase their cultural identity. She emphasizes the importance of practicing choreography retention and the value of ballet in her dance development.

Throughout the episode, Kelly provides valuable insights and advice for aspiring dancers, stressing the importance of persistence, creativity, and self-discipline.

Show Notes:

(0:03) Kelly Sweeney's Introduction and Early Dance Journey
(5:55) Balancing Dance and Academics
(14:56) The Viral Choreography of Descendants Red
(24:06) Q&A with Young Dancers
(30:18) Advice for Aspiring Dancers
(39:07) Inspiration and Future Goals
(59:46) Cultural Identity and Language Skills

Biography:

Born in Mexico and raised in L.A., Kelly Sweeney began her professional dance and choreography career at 15. Since then, she has danced and choreographed for major performing artists, including Jlo, Bebe Rexha, Lil Uzi, Neyo, Shakira, and Nick Jonas.

She has also worked in motion pictures, music videos, NBA teams and award shows. Kelly’s very passionate about her teaching, and has fixed teaching slots at Millenium and Playground LA studios as well as major national and international dance conventions.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/kellysweeney1/

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