Episode Summary: 

Menina Fortunato interviews renowned choreographer Alex Magno to explore his inspiring journey from Rio de Janeiro to Los Angeles, where he became an influential figure in the dance world. Menina introduces Alex, celebrating his achievements, including Emmy and World Choreography Awards, and their shared history, as Alex’s scholarship significantly impacted her own dance path.

A turning point came when Alex won a competition sponsored by Paramount Pictures, bringing him to the United States. In Los Angeles, he trained rigorously, embracing diverse dance styles, including tap, and connecting with industry mentors who encouraged his artistic pursuits.

Alex shares career highlights and challenges, from performing in The Nutcracker to working with global icons like Madonna. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, adapting choreography to each dancer’s strengths, and staying disciplined.

For emerging choreographers, Alex advises a focus on collaboration, continual learning, and maintaining a positive, resilient mindset. He underscores the value of authenticity, discipline, and creating a supportive community. Concluding with words of encouragement, Alex urges dancers to remain dedicated to their craft and persevere in pursuit of their dreams.

Show Notes:

Biography:

ALEXANDRE MAGNO is an Emmy and a WCA (World Choreography Awards) nominated Choreographer, director, and Producer, best known for his work with MADONNA (Girlie Show and Drowned World Tours), BRITNEY SPEARS, JENNIFER LOPEZ, THE PUSSYCAT DOLLS, THE ACADEMY AWARDS, MTV MUSIC AWARDS, , SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE (FOX), DANCING WITH THE STARS (ABC) , YANNI VOICES (PBS and TELEVISA TV SPECIAL), NEODANCE (A Tango Project, Featuring GRAMMY WINNER NESTOR TORRES), BENISE (EMMY WINNER Nights Of Fire PBS Special, along with two other shows: The Spanish Guitar, and FUEGO The Spirit Of Spain - PBS TV Special) ONYX LULLABY (Experimental Dance Film featuring ANNIE LENNOX & DAVID ALLAN STEWART'S Iconic Music: SWEET DREAMS (Are Made Of This) - LIDO DE PARIS (Lido La Tourné), BALLET HISPANICO, MAAPshowseries, and DEEP SLEEP FOR Beat FreaksUTY (A Fashion Dance Show, Presented and Produced by JUSTONEEYE; based on a Fairytale Book created by CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN, as part of LOUBOUTIN'S new collaboration (The Capsule Collection) with Indian Couture Designer SABYASACHI And more….

Drawing on a variety of styles, disciplines, and cultural influences, Mr. MAGNO infuses his work with powerful drama, beauty and sensuality. As a Dance Educator: Mr. Magno is known worldwide, for his unique Latin, cool, sensual fused dance style; and for training today's top dancers, celebrities and choreographers; such as Carrie Ann Inaba, Christina Applegate, Jenna Elfman, Elizabeth Berkley, Carlos Gomes, Brian Friedman, Gil Duldulao, Mandy More, Bobby Newberry, Jillian Meyers, Tony Testa, Jason Parsons to name a few.

This well-deserved recognition celebrates over three decades of the extraordinary career of Alex Magno and further solidifies his status as a leading figure in the world of dance and choreography, sharing this honor among esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award previous recipients like Toni Basil, the Nicholas Brothers, Debbie Allen, Jamie King, Adam Shankman, Vincent Paterson, Janet Jackson, Gene Kelly, Nappy Tabs, Travis Payne, and Twitch.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/alexmagnoofficial

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https://www.alexmagno.com/