36 - Louise Hradsky: Canadian Cirque du Soleil Dancer to Emmy nominated choreographer

Episode Summary:  Louise Hradsky, an acclaimed choreographer and former performer, delves into her extensive experience in the dance industry. Louise, who has been nominated for MTV Movie and Emmy Awards, discusses her work on major film and TV projects such as Godzilla and The Descendants. She reflects on her early passion for ballet, which was redirected toward contemporary dance after facing rejection from a prestigious ballet school. This redirection led her to a successful career in contemporary dance, providing valuable insights into resilience and adaptation. The episode also explores the career journey of Menina Fortunato, who shares her struggles and triumphs as a dancer, choreographer, and stunt performer. Menina discusses the challenges she faced, from auditioning for Cirque du Soleil to navigating the complexities of working as a Canadian dancer in Los Angeles, including the visa renewal process. Her persistence in overcoming rejection and seizing opportunities highlights the importance of resilience in the dance industry. Both Louise and Menina offer advice on building a strong body of work, securing an O-1 visa, and balancing passions with personal and professional life. The episode concludes with reflections on evolving passions and goals, encouraging dancers to embrace change and continuous growth throughout their careers. Show Notes: 0:03 Dance industry with guest Louise, choreographer and former performer.   3:24 Redirecting passion for ballet after being rejected from a prestigious school.   9:05 Career journey, highlights, and struggles as a dancer and stunt performer.   14:36 Dance career, auditioning, and resilience.   20:20 Canadian dancers in LA, perspectives on local talent and visa renewals.   25:32 Emmy nominations and magazine publication.   30:00 Immigration process and building a strong body of work.   34:09 Choreography process for movies/TV shows, including script analysis, creative vision, budgeting, and rehearsals.   38:36 Balancing passions and priorities as a dancer, choreographer offers advice on trust and focus.   42:17 Navigating the pandemic and strike in the dance industry.   47:08 Creativity, collaboration, and ego management in dance and filmmaking.   53:13 Evolving passions and goals in dance careers. Biography: A choreographer known for her strong leadership, years of experience, and collaborative spirit, Louise Hradsky is a creative heavyweight with a refined point of view. Originally from Western Canada, she found her home in the vibrant Vancouver film and television industry in 2006, working steadily across the globe as a performer, choreographer, and movement coach since. As a performer, Louise landed roles in feature films like: Sucker Punch, Mirror Mirror; and Deadpool 2, and TV shows including: A Series Of Unfortunate Events, Once Upon A Time, and Hellcats. Her balance of style, technical athleticism, and magnetic character performance also led her to Cirque Du Soleil, where Louise played the revered role of the Green Lizard in Cirque’s longest-running resident show in Las Vegas, Mystére. Early in her career, Louise began working creatively and collaboratively for pioneering dance icons such as Kenny Ortega, Jamal Sims, and Michelle Johnston. They shared their wisdom and recognized how Louise’s contribution enhanced their work, mentoring her into the role of a leading choreographer. In her years as a film and television choreographer, Louise has been nominated for an Emmy Award, MTV Movie and TV Award, and won a Leo Award for outstanding choreography. Her recent credits include Grease: Rise Of The Pink Ladies, Godzilla & The Titans, Yellowjackets, Pachinko (Opening Credits), The Good Doctor, To All The Boys (trilogy), A Million Little Things, The Midnight Club, and The Haunting Of Bly Manor, among others. Connect on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/lou.sky https://www.facebook.com/louise.hradsky