The Business of Dance

Latest Episodes:

2 - Alex Wong: "From Ballet Dancer to TV & Tik Tok Star" Nov 26, 2023

Show notes

Episode Summary:

Host Menina Fortunato talks with Alex Wong about his evolution from tap to ballet to a standout on "So You Think You Can Dance." Alex recounts his reluctant start in ballet, his win at the Prix de Lausanne competition, and his tenure with prestigious ballet companies. The discussion also covers his successful pivot to TikTok during the pandemic, contrasting his traditional dance roles with the more profitable social media sphere. The episode concludes by exploring the broadening avenues for dancers in the digital era, with Alex's story providing both inspiration and actionable insights.

Show Notes:

00:01:42 - Introduction to Alex Wong
00:02:40 - Alex's Early Dance Journey
00:07:47 - Social Media Connections
00:13:54 - Social Media and Dance Agencies
00:16:10 - Advice for Dancers
00:20:53 - Building Relationships in the Dance Industry
00:22:35 - Training and Work Balance

Biography:

Alex Wong began his dance journey at the tender age of 7, with his training encompassing various styles, including tap and jazz. By the age of 10, he was honing his ballet skills at the renowned Goh Ballet Academy in Vancouver, Canada. His prowess in ballet was further recognized when he became the first Canadian to win the prestigious Prix de Lausanne competition in Switzerland in 2004.

Alex briefly danced with the American Ballet Theatre before joining the Miami City Ballet. By 2007, he had been promoted to the rank of soloist at MCB. His repertoire is vast, having performed leading roles in renowned productions such as Balanchine’s Symphony In Three Movements, Twyla Tharp’s Push Comes to Shove, and many more.

In 2009, Alex's journey took an exciting turn when he auditioned for the FOX dance series, "So You Think You Can Dance." Although he made it to the final Top 20, contractual obligations with the Miami City Ballet forced him to withdraw. However, his impressive audition led to a promotion to the rank of principal soloist at MCB. In 2010, he took another shot at SYTYCD and made it to the Top 10 contestants for season seven. Unfortunately, an injury during a rehearsal forced him out of the competition.

He has appeared on shows like "Glee," "Smash," "The Voice," and "Dancing with the Stars." He even made it to the semi-final Hollywood rounds of "American Idol." Alex's versatility is further highlighted by his dance single "Crave" and his role as Sniper in the Original Broadway Cast of "Newsies."

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/alexdwong

https://www.facebook.com/alexdwong

Official Website

https://www.thealexwong.com

1 - Menina Fortunato: “Introduction to The Business of Dance” Nov 26, 2023

Show notes

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Business of Dance podcast, host Menina Fortunato takes us on a journey through her illustrious career in dance and the business side of it. The episode culminates with the birth of the Business of Dance podcast, aimed at helping aspiring dancers navigate the complexities of a professional dance career. Throughout the episode, Menina's passion for dance and business shines through, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to make a mark in the dance industry.

Show Notes:

00:00:00 - Introduction to the Business of Dance Podcast
00:03:33 - Menina's Early Education in Dance Business
00:04:16 - Menina's First Professional Dance Gig
00:06:37 - Menina's Move to LA
00:08:33 - Menina's Work with Renowned Shows and Artists
00:10:46 - The Birth of the Business of Dance Mentorship Program
00:12:04 - The Aim of the Business of Dance Podcast

Biography:

Menina Fortunato, the founder of The Business of Dance, boasts a remarkable three-decade tenure in the dance industry.

Her TV & fappearances on prominent television shows and films, including America's Got Talent, Latin American Music Awards, Star Trek: Enterprise, DC's Legends of Tomorrow, Guys Choice Awards, Alias, MAD TV, Spectacular, Kickin It Old Skool, and Celebrity Fit Club.

Throughout her illustrious career, she has collaborated with a myriad of esteemed recording artists, including Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Carrie Underwood, Paula Abdul, Maluma, Carmen Electra, P!nk, Fergie, Luke Bryan, Earth Wind & Fire, MC Hammer, Victoria Justice, William Hung, Rain, and Luis Miguel, to name but a few.

Her creative prowess shone as she assumed roles such as associate choreographer for The X Factor, associate consulting producer on America's Got Talent, and executive producer for various music videos filmed at Universal Studios and Paramount Studios.

Her exceptional industry insight earned her a coveted spot as a guest judge on the acclaimed TV show DANCE MOMS, where she adjudicated of Maddie Ziegler and JoJo Siwa, among others.

Beyond her notable accomplishments, Menina is the visionary founder and owner of The Hollywood Summer Tour and The London Spring Tour, prestigious dance programs designed to educate, guide, and inspire aspiring dancers pursuing a career in the commercial dance industry.

Recognized as a trusted authority in her field, Menina has served on the advisory board at Studio School (formerly Relativity School) for their esteemed Commercial Dance BFA program. Additionally, she has played an instrumental role as a voting committee member for the World Choreography Awards, Universal Dance Awards, and the National Dance Committee for SAG (Screen Actors Guild).

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/meninafortunato

https://www.instagram.com/meninafortunato/

https://www.youtube.com/@menina.fortunato

Websites:

https://www.meninafortunato.com/

https://www.bizofdance.com/menina-fortunato

Business of Dance - Trailer Oct 26, 2023

Show notes

The Business of Dance" podcast, hosted by the seasoned dance professional Menina Fortunato, is your go-to resource for dancers and parents of aspiring dancers, providing essential insights to navigate the complex world of dance careers. 
In each episode, Menina engages in candid conversations with industry experts, delving into the multifaceted dimensions of the dance world. Together, they shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked business aspects of pursuing a dance profession. 
With a clear mission to empower dancers and help them achieve their dreams, this podcast addresses a wide range of topics, from personal development and mental skills to auditioning, social media marketing, securing dance agents, capitalizing on casting opportunities, on-the-job etiquette, talent unions, media pitching, nutrition, finances, and much more. Menina firmly underscores that talent alone is insufficient; aspiring dancers must grasp the intricacies of the "Business of Dance" to thrive in the industry. 
Listeners can anticipate gaining exclusive access to insider knowledge as Menina engages with prominent figures from the dance world. These accomplished guests generously share their insights, personal journeys, and invaluable career advice. 
By tuning in, you receive a VIP backstage pass to the dance world, providing a unique opportunity to learn from the industry's best. Don't forget to hit the subscribe button to ensure you never miss an episode brimming with wisdom and inspiration. 
Join Menina Fortunato on this transformative journey as she demystifies the business aspects behind the artistry, guiding you toward a successful dance career.  
For updates on upcoming guests and episodes, visit the website at www.bizofdance.com
Like, Follow & Subscribe @
www.instagram.com/meninafortunato
www.facebook.com/meninafortunato
www.youtube.com/meninaf.fortunato

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