The Business of Dance

• 97- Jacquelyn Long: Houston Ballet Soloist

  Interview Date: May 11th, 2025Houston Ballet soloist Jacquelyn Long traces her path from living-room pliés with her mom (a former pro) to summer intensives, HBII, and the main company. She shares how relationships and coachability shaped her trajectory, why modern/contemporary versatility now matters as much as classical technique, and how social media helps—but shouldn’t replace—the messy, vital process. We dig into audition materials, the “right” photos, favorite roles (Sylvia! Cinderella!), life as a working ballerina (weekly schedule, contracts, AGMA, benefits), pointe-shoe realities, nerves and mindset, longevity habits, and her growing passion for choreography. Plus: where to see her onstage next and practical encouragement for dancers finding their own path.Show Notes:(0:41) - Intro & bio; welcome Jacquelyn Long (2:20) - How she started; early training at home (2:24) - Mom steps back; Janina trains until 11 (3:14) - Houston Ballet intensives begin at 14 (5:31) - “Go where you’re liked” scholarships lesson (6:49) - Relationships, coachability, work ethic matter(12:20) - Be versatile: modern/contemporary equals ballet (14:03) - Social media’s role; process over perfection (16:03) - Audition toolkit: video, resume, show both styles (18:49) - Best photos: true headshot, first arabesque (20:32) - Favorite roles; Sylvia, Cinderella, new premieres (22:21) - Business mindset: many paths, trust timing (25:38) - Next chapter: choreography alongside performing (45:16) - Contracts, AGMA, pay cadence, key benefits(54:55) - Pointe shoes: custom Bloch, company-paid(57:46) - Final advice; where to see Houston BalletBiography:Jacquelyn Long began her ballet training under the direction of her mother, Suzanne Lownsbury, and Janina Michalski at Ballet Virginia. In 2010, she joined Houston Ballet II (HBII). After two years in the second company, Jacquelyn joined Houston Ballet as a Corps de Ballet member in 2012. Ms. Long was promoted to Soloist in 2016.Ms. Long has performed leading roles such as the title role in Stanton Welch's Sylvia; Hermia in John Neumeier’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream; Gamzatti in Stanton Welch’s La Bayadère; Myrtha in Stanton Welch’s Giselle; Sugar Plum Fairy and Clara in Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker; Valencienne in Ronald Hynd’s The Merry Widow; Carabosse and Princess Florine in Ben Stevenson's The Sleeping Beauty; Snow Queen in Ben Stevenson's The Nutcracker; Miranda in Stanton Welch's Romeo and Juliet.  She has also danced featured roles in George Balanchine’s Serenade, Emeralds, Concerto Barocco, and Symphony in C; Jiří Kylián's Stepping Stones, Dreamtime, and Wings of Wax; Justin Peck's Year of the Rabbit and Under the Folding Sky; William Forsythe’s Artifact Suite and In the middle somewhat elevated; Jorma Elo's ONE/end/ONE; Jerome Robbin’s Fancy Free; Stanton Welch's Divergence, Paquita, Velocity, Maninyas, Tapestry, and Son of Chamber Symphony.Ms. Long was also featured in the Dancer's Spotlight of the 2013 October/November issue of Pointe Magazine and in the 2013 February issue of Dance Spirit Magazine.Connect on Social Media:Website - https://www.houstonballet.org/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jac_long/

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• 96- Josh Horner: DWTS Australia Judge, ‘Billy Elliot’ (Broadway) & Disney Creative

  Interview Date: May 4th, 2025Episode Summary:Australian dancer–choreographer–TV judge Joshua Horner traces his wildly diverse path: asthma kid → Australian Ballet soloist → West End lead in Movin’ Out → Broadway’s Billy Elliot → Disney creative in Los Angeles → Dancing With The Stars judge → reality-TV creator → and finally, a show-stopping pivot into real estate where he sells homes with full theatrical flair. Along the way he unpacks visas, networking that pays off a decade later, audition tactics, standing out without gimmicks, why technique still wins, and how to future-proof a dance career with bravery, focus, and business sense. The Q&A dives into agents in Australia, cruise-ship hustles, concert vs. commercial dance choices, and breaking into BroadwayShownotes:(0:00) — Roll call, cameras on, global intros(0:59) — Guest intro: multi-market career highlights(3:21) — Asthma leads Josh into dance(6:12) — Australian Ballet School, company contract(6:37) — Dirty Dancing understudy; Twyla Tharp notice(7:59) — London West End lead, green card plan(8:59) — Broadway debut, Billy Elliot & Tony Awards(18:05) — Disney dream: 10-year networking seed blooms(23:32) — DWTS judge role; weekly LA–Australia commute(26:03) — Reality TV pilot; shifting industry landscape(28:14 )— Breakup with dance, pivot to real estate(30:26)— Viral listings: showgirls, humor, entertainment(34:48) — Q&A: agents, cruise ships, hustling tips(45:20) — Career crossroads: commercial vs. contemporary dance(59:14) — Final advice: technique, smarts, braveryBiography:Ladies and gentlemen, meet Josh Horner – the former dance floor dynamo, Disneyland's creative wizard, and the unforgettable judge on Dancing With The Stars! Now back in his hometown, Josh is lighting up real estate with The Horner Agency and his iconic gnome sidekick. Forget record-breaking sales—it's his viral videos that have buyers and vendors lining up, all because the JOY is real with this guy! With a knack for connecting and a flair for fun, every deal with Josh is a showstopper. Get ready to experience real estate like never before!Connect on Social Media:Website - ⁠thehorneragency.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/joshuajhorner/

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• 95- Julie Mcdonald: MSA Co-Founder, First Dance Agent & Industry Trailblazer Honored at Gala of the Stars

  Interview Date: September 21st, 2025Episode Summary:In this inspiring conversation, Menina Fortunato sits down with Julie McDonald, the trailblazing co-founder of MSA Agency and the first dance agent in history. Julie shares her incredible journey from professional dancer to industry visionary—representing some of the biggest names in choreography and performance.She reflects on the evolution of the commercial dance world, the importance of professionalism and preparation, and what truly sets apart dancers who build lasting careers. Julie offers invaluable advice on networking, auditions, and why knowing your dance history—from Bob Fosse to Jerome Robbins—is essential for any serious artist.From agency insight to mentorship, this episode is filled with stories, wisdom, and warmth from a woman who changed the industry for dancers everywhere. Julie also shares exciting news about being honored with the Trailblazer Award at Gala of the Stars—a full-circle moment for one of dance’s greatest advocates.This episode is perfect for dancers, teachers, and aspiring professionals who want to understand the business behind dance, the art of longevity, and the power of curiosity and gratitude in shaping a meaningful career.Shownotes:(0:00) – Welcome & intro to Julie McDonald and her legacy (3:15) – Julie’s start as a dancer & transition into agency life (7:40) – Founding MSA: creating the first dance agency in the world(12:25) – Representing choreographers, dancers & industry icons(22:10) – What makes a dancer stand out to an agent(35:05) – How the dance industry evolved through the decades (50:12) – Advice: professionalism, mindset, and consistency (1:13:05) – Julie’s message: know your dance history & icons (1:16:16) – Gala of the Stars — Julie honored with Trailblazer Award(1:16:57) – Closing: gratitude, selfies, and inspiration for young dancersBiography:Julie McDonald is the visionary co-owner of McDonald Selznick Associates (MSA) and a trailblazer in dance and choreography representation. In 1985, she launched the first talent agency devoted exclusively to dance, setting a new standard for advocacy, professionalism, and artistic excellence in the industry.From the outset, Julie championed fair terms and improved working conditions for dancers and choreographers, tirelessly promoting the visibility and integrity of commercial dance. In 2000, she joined forces with Tony Selznick to found MSA, which today represents a roster of award‑winning talent. Her clients have earned Emmy, Tony, MTV, and MTV Awards—while leading the creative teams behind Broadway hits, Las Vegas spectaculars, high‑profile films, television dramas, sitcoms, and major awards shows (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar).A dedicated collaborator and industry visionary, Julie co‑created the American Choreography Awards (1994–2004), celebrating excellence in dance across media. Her pioneering work has been recognized with Lifetime Achievement Awards from both the Choreographers Carnival and McCallum’s Choreography Festival.Through her ongoing projects and continued leadership at MSA, Julie McDonald remains a powerful force in shaping the future of dance, honoring its past, and empowering the artists who bring it to life.Connect on Social Media:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/juliemcdonaldmsa/

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• 94- Rachele Brooke Smith: Center Stage, Bring It On, Iron Man 2 — Gymnast, Dancer, Actress & Superhero

  Interview Date: June 29th, 2025Episode Summary:Menina welcomes actor–dancer Rachele Brooke Smith for a candid ride from fearful gymnast to leading roles in Center Stage: Turn It Up, Bring It On, Iron Man 2, and a new superhero film. Rachele unpacks visualization, journaling, and “do the brave thing” as career fuel; navigating post-win lows; rehabbing injuries with PT, anti-inflammatory nutrition, rest, and affirmations; and how versatility (breakdance, pointe, martial arts, stunts) opened doors. They close on boundaries, kindness, and building a brand rooted in energy, gratitude, and courage.Shownotes:(2:09) — Guest intro: dancer, actor, speaker, 45+ credits(4:28) — Gymnastics struggles, anxiety, and harsh coaching(6:27) — Center Stage sparks life-changing visualization dream(8:59) — Six auditions, three months, wins lead role(10:55) — Post-success low; tools for mindset reset(17:59) — Major injury setback; healing through PT and rest(21:31) — Affirmations, nutrition, gratitude practices in recovery(1:20:21) — Transition from stiff gymnast to fluid dancer(1:24:48) — Martial arts, breakdance, stunts expand acting career(1:26:09) — Superhero film role; theme: even heroes need helpBiography:Award-Winning Actress & Film Producer | World-Renowned Dancer & Wellness Practitioner | Magnetic Inspirational Speaker Rachele Brooke Smith, star of Center Stage: Turn It Up, Bring It On: Fight to the Finish, Atomic Shark, Popstar and 45+ other films and TV shows—and her upcoming superhero film Legend of the White Dragon, premiering later this year—seamlessly bridges the worlds of entertainment and holistic well-being. An award-winning performer, sought-after speaker, and co-founder of Relationship Renegades, she merges decades of expertise in mind-body connection with cutting-edge biohacking practices to empower individuals to reclaim their vitality, magnetism, personal freedom, and creative expansion.  Her transformative workshop, Expression Therapy, combines dynamic movement, emotional release techniques, and neuroscience-backed tools to help attendees shatter self-limiting patterns, amplify confidence, and unlock their highest potential. Drawing from her journey as a Hollywood artist and wellness advocate, Rachele’s methods blend artistic authenticity with actionable strategies for mental clarity, emotional resilience, and peak performance.  A trailblazer in experiential healing, Rachele has been featured at global wellness summits and on platforms like E! News and Access Hollywood. Join her to discover the liberating power of authentic expression—and biohack your way to a bold, unapologetic life.  Connect on Social Media:Website: www.RacheleBSmith.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rbrookesmith/ https://www.instagram.com/relationship.renegades/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rachelebrookesmith?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rachelebsmith

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• 93 - Johanna Sapakie : Madonna, J.Lo, and and Cirque du Soleil's Michael Jackson ONE

  Interview Date: April 13th, 2025Episode Summary:International choreographer, aerialist, and performer Johanna Sapakie (Cirque du Soleil, Super Bowl LIV with Jennifer Lopez, Hustlers, Dita Las Vegas) drops a masterclass in longevity and reinvention. From creating her own “scholarship program” after a studio closed, to bold networking that led to her first agent within months, Johanna shows how resourcefulness plus relentless training turn opportunities into credits. She breaks down the leap from dancer to aerialist/pole artist, how Hustlers led straight to the Super Bowl, and why the real separator isn’t trick difficulty—it’s entertainment value. We also cover working with A-list artists, targeted demo reels, practical grip/endurance tips, and her current creative leadership role revamping Ringling Brothers. If you’re an aspiring pro, this episode is your blueprint for asking clearly, training smart, and staying in the game—decades in.Shownotes:(0:00) — Introductions & career pivots during pandemic(11:46)— Builds DIY scholarship training program(18:48) — First agent & early industry mentors(23:44) — Discovering aerial work, first opportunities(30:28) — Cirque du Soleil breakthrough moment(32:33) — Pole artistry, JLo & Hustlers36:49 — Inside JLo’s work ethic & process(42:46) — Training evolution: 20s, 30s, 40s(45:23) — Creative directing Ringling & Dita Las Vegas(50:47) — Entertainment value outlasts technical tricksBiography:Johanna Sapakie is an accomplished Artistic Director, Choreographer and Performer. Johanna has been involved in many projects on stage and on camera including the Super Bowl LIV Halftime Show, Hustlers and Medicine with JLo, Cirque Du Soleil's Michael Jackson ONE and Viva ELVIS, Dancing With the Stars, So You Think You Can Dance, The Tournament of Roses Parade, RuPaul’s Drag Race Live, Shiners Nashville, the Arabesque Festival at the Kennedy Center, Songs of Soul and Inspiration with Debbie Allen, the re- release of Michael Jackson’s “Blood on the Dance Floor”, Miley Cyrus: Live in Concert World Tour, 2 tours for Madonna and Splendor by Dragone. Johanna is also an accomplished aerial acrobat and performs on many different apparatus including tissú, lyra, spans, hammock, acro & aerial pole, and aerial heart . She has just recently completed the creation of the new residency Dita Las Vegas: A Jubilant Revue as their acrobatic and associate choreographer. Johanna also proudly teaches master classes and workshops around the world in pole, aerial acrobatics and dance. She excels at artist development and act creation.Connect on social media:Instagram: Www.instagram.com/johannasapakiereal

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