Episode Summary:
Menina Fortunato talks with Jessa, a dancer, choreographer, and movement coach, about her journey from Vancouver to Los Angeles. Jessa reflects on how she transitioned from musical theater to dance, highlighting her persistence despite early struggles with technique. She discusses the challenges of moving to LA and obtaining a work visa, underscoring the importance of perseverance and networking in building a successful career.
Jessa shares her experiences performing with Ariana Grande at the VMAs and touring with Maluma, offering insight into her role as a movement coach. She explains how she helps artists develop confidence and stage presence, emphasizing the importance of mindset and personal growth. Jessa advises aspiring dancers on maintaining a positive attitude, being persistent, and building genuine relationships within the industry.
The episode also explores the importance of mental and physical health for professional dancers, demonstrating how Jessa's story of resilience and passion helped her achieve success in a competitive industry.
Show Notes:
(0:00) Introduction to Jessa
(2:00) Jessa's early dance journey and transition from musical theater to dance
(5:30) Overcoming early struggles with technique and finding passion
(9:00) The challenges of moving to LA and obtaining a work visa
(12:00) Building a strong network and creating opportunities
(15:00) Memorable experiences: performing with Ariana Grande at the VMAs
(18:30) Touring with Maluma and traveling the world
(21:00) The role of mindset in a dancer’s career
(25:00) Jessa's work as a movement coach and helping artists develop stage presence
(28:30) The importance of mental and physical health in the dance industry
(32:00) Advice for aspiring dancers on persistence and building relationships
(35:00) The power of self-worth and confidence in booking jobs
(40:00) Navigating the challenges of the dance industry with resilience
(43:00) Building an authentic personal brand in the dance world
(47:00) Jessa’s advice on standing out in auditions and staying true to yourself
Biography:
Jessa Doll is a commercial dancer from Vancouver, Canada, currently residing in Los Angeles. Growing up in Langley, BC, Jessa attended a Fine Arts High School where she majored in Modern Dance and Musical Theatre. In addition, she has travelled all over the world to train in various styles.
After graduating, Jessa joined daCosta Talent and worked on numerous tv/film productions in the city of Vancouver. In 2014 Jessa obtained her 0-1 artist work visa for the United States. She is currently represented by Bloc Talent Agency. Her most recent credits as a dancer include; touring the world with Maluma on the 11:11/Papi Juancho World Tour, Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies, Riverdale, Disney's Freaky Friday, Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Lucifer, DC Legends of Tomorrow, Nickelodeon's RAGZ, Disney's Girl vs. Monster, Bravetown and Lifetime's Britney Ever After. Commercial credits include: Mountain Dew, L'oreal Paris, Kohl's, Lee Jeans and Erroca House of Brands. Jessa has also worked with artists such as: Ariana Grande, Jennifer Lopez, French Montana, Natalie La Rose, Jesse McCartney, Marianas Trench and Michael Buble. Other credits include: Sport Chek, MAC Cosmetics, American Horror Story, New Balance, etc..
Jessa's passion for dance extends to choreography and movement coaching. She has had the pleasure of working with numerous up and coming artists such as Gia Woods, Julia Wolf, Jessie Chambers, Dyln, Rohan, Maxyme, Bava and Ceara Cavalieri. Jessa is also currently a faculty member at Millennium Dance Complex OC teaching heels and jazz funk.
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