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