In dance, passion meets the profession, and therein lies a remarkable platform that has been transforming the lives of dancers worldwide. The “Business of Dance” podcast is a place where dreams of a thriving dance career are nurtured, and the business acumen behind the art of dance is unveiled. At the helm of this inspirational journey is the podcast’s host, Menina Fortunato, whose personal story and passion for dance are nothing short of extraordinary.
The “Business of Dance” podcast is more than just a series of interviews; it’s a gateway to the dance world’s inner workings. Menina Fortunato, the driving force behind this podcast, invites listeners to explore the world of professional dance through the eyes and experiences of renowned industry professionals, including dancers, choreographers, agents, casting directors, educators, and other experts.
The podcast offers diverse topics, from personal development and mental skills to audition techniques, creating meaningful industry connections, social media marketing, securing agents and casting opportunities, on-the-job etiquette, talent unions, pitching to the media, health, finances, and more. In Menina’s words, “This podcast is your backstage pass to the professional dance world.”
But who is Menina Fortunato, and what makes her the ideal guide through the intricacies of the dance industry?
Menina’s journey into dance began at the age of eight, under the guidance of her father, who owned two dance studios. On the other hand, her mother started the 5678 Showtime dance competition when Menina was just twelve. Thanks to her parents, her early exposure to the business side of dance laid the foundation for her future endeavors. She learned the vital importance of branding and marketing, which would prove invaluable in her career.
By the time she turned twelve, Menina was already teaching dance at her father’s studio, earning $40 an hour—a substantial sum in the early ’90s. Despite not being the most technically proficient dancer, Menina possessed something far more potent: unwavering passion, an unyielding drive, and a keen understanding of the business aspects of the dance world.
Dancing Towards LA: Overcoming Obstacles
At the age of sixteen, Menina began teaching at other studios and secured her first professional dance gig in Vancouver. It was in Los Angeles, however, that her career truly took off. Moving to LA to pursue her dance dreams required overcoming the obstacle of obtaining a work visa as a Canadian. With determination and self-funding, Menina navigated the complexities of immigration and surprised her parents on Christmas day with the news that she was moving to LA with a work visa and an agent.
Her journey in LA began with modest means, but it quickly led to remarkable opportunities. Within a month, Menina worked with no other than Paula Abdul, her teen idol. She also auditioned for Britney Spears’ world tour. Although she didn’t secure a spot on the tour, her audition opened the doors to dancing in Pepsi commercials with Britney Spears that premiered during the Super Bowl—a dream opportunity for any young dancer.
From Auditions to Stardom: Menina’s Dance Career
From there, Menina’s career blossomed. She danced with Earth, Wind & Fire, ZZ Top, Carmen Electra, MC Hammer, Paul Abdul, Carrie Underwood, Victoria Justice, Luke Bryan, Luis Miguel, Rain, Jennifer Garner, and many more. She even ventured into the world of television, appearing in shows like Star Trek: Enterprise, Alias, and Mad TV and becoming a guest judge on Dance Moms. Her creative talents extended to producing music videos and award shows at major studios.
Menina’s journey took an exciting turn when she became a wife and a mother of three children. She transitioned into the production side of dance and initiated the Hollywood Summer Tour in 2006, educating dancers about the commercial aspects of the dance industry. During this time, she began mentoring dancers one-on-one, helping them with marketing materials, headshots, resumes, business cards, websites, social media marketing, and even connecting them with photographers, agents, and immigration attorneys.
Her ability to give back to the next generation became evident, and Menina found her purpose in guiding aspiring dancers. However, 2020 brought unforeseen challenges when her in-person events business came to a halt, leaving her financially adrift. Yet, this setback led to the birth of the “Business of Dance” online mentorship program in 2022—a program that has since transformed the lives of dancers across Canada, the US, Mexico, the UK, and Europe.
In just over a year since its inception, the program has seen aspiring dancers as young as five and adults thriving under Menina’s mentorship. Many of these dancers have secured agents and are living their dreams thanks to her guidance. The program offers valuable insights into the business side of dance, covering marketing, branding, networking, personal development, and much more, all tailored for dancers.
Becoming a Mentor and Producer
Menina Fortunato’s journey from a young dancer with a dream to a mentor empowering the next generation is a testament to her determination and passion. Her “Business of Dance” podcast serves as a bridge, connecting dancers with the knowledge and experiences of industry experts. Through her interviews, she unveils the secrets to success, the lessons learned from challenges, and the strategies that have propelled dancers to the pinnacle of the dance world.
One remarkable aspect of the podcast is the treasure trove of interviews hosted within the Business of Dance mentorship program. These interviews feature insights and wisdom from known professionals in the dance industry. They cover a wide range of topics, offering practical advice and inspiration to dancers at every stage of their careers. Whether you’re seeking career guidance, motivation, or fresh perspectives on the dance industry, Menina’s podcast guests have got you covered.
Empowering the Next Generation: The Mentorship Program
One key audience that the podcast caters to is parents of young dancers. Menina dedicates episodes to guide parents in supporting their child’s dance dreams and navigating the dance world effectively. Her personal journey as a dancer and mentor gives her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that young dancers and their parents face.
The “Business of Dance” podcast, hosted by Menina Fortunato, is an inspiration and knowledge source for dancers worldwide. Menina’s remarkable journey from a young dancer to a successful mentor showcases the power of passion, drive, and business acumen in the dance world. Her podcast opens doors to the professional dance world and empowers dancers to turn their passion into a thriving business. Menina’s story is a testament to the belief that if you are a dancer, you are a business, and with the right guidance, you can achieve your dreams. So, as Menina says, “Keep dancing, keep dreaming,” and remember, the “Business of Dance” podcast is here to guide you every step of the way.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
