In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts

In this episode, Robin Snyder-Wiencek interviews Menina Fortunato, a seasoned dancer and entrepreneur, sharing her journey from a competitive dancer to a successful business owner in the performing arts industry. Menina discusses her background, including her early exposure to dance through her family's dance studios and her eventual move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in commercial dance. She highlights the challenges dancers face in transitioning from training to professional work and emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation in both artistic and business skills. Menina explains her mentorship program, which offers guidance to dancers aiming for careers in various aspects of the performing arts, from commercial dance to Broadway. She also stresses the significance of networking, self-promotion, and developing a strong online presence for dancers today. The episode concludes with Menina offering advice for parents and studio owners on preparing students for potential careers in the performing arts and encouraging them to pursue their dreams with determination and a well-rounded skill set. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our Inside EMC segment where we chat: Our next Free Form Friday Event: Family Jam Night New Boys Class on Saturdays and how to join us Sparkle Days coming up in January for our Kreative Kidz classes Imagine That! Mini Event and announcing our first theme Spaghetti with Eddie and when the next cookout will be Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

Robin sits down with fellow performing arts mom Kim Treloar to talk honestly about what it’s like to raise children in the spotlight. From Broadway auditions and national anthems to rejection, resilience, and redefining success, Kim shares her sons’ very different journeys through theater and music. Together, they explore the courage it takes to pursue the arts, the tight-knit community that forms among families, and the powerful realization that the skills gained through performing arts matter, even when the path takes an unexpected turn. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

This week we reflect on the magic of The Holiday Celebration, a performance that brought our community together through music, movement, and meaning. From the dedication shown in rehearsals to the joy felt on stage, this episode is about honoring the heart behind the performance and the dancers who made it shine. As the lights come down and the season begins to slow, we take a moment to celebrate creativity, growth, and the shared experience of bringing art to life during the holidays. This episode is both a thank-you and a reflection, a reminder of why we gather, perform, and celebrate together. Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

In this episode, Robin Snyder-Wiencek engages in a deep conversation with Denise Carr, a passionate dance educator and esthetician. Denise shares her journey from a young dancer to a teacher, discussing the importance of training, the challenges of transitioning from student to teacher, and the impact of different teaching methodologies. They explore the significance of college dance programs, the value of a dance degree, and the personal choices that shape a dance career. Denise also talks about her experience with the Horton technique and her journey into the esthetics field, highlighting the balance between her teaching and business endeavors. The conversation emphasizes the importance of diverse dance experiences and the role of teachers in shaping young dancers' lives. About Denise: Denise started dancing at the age of 4 and has continued to dance through high school and college. She graduated in May 2017, receiving her BFA in dance performance from Towson University. Denise trained with many different teachers and choreographers including Linda-Denise Fisher-Harrell, Runqiao Du, Vincent Thomas, and Catherine Horta-Hayden. During her time at Towson she performed with the Towson University Dance Company and performed excerpts choreographed by Runqiao Du, Darrell Moltrie, and Kim Bailey. Since graduating, she has taught at many different dance programs and studios in the Maryland and Southern PA area for over 10 years. While she loves teaching, Denise also enjoys choreographing. She has choreographed for various different productions by Harford Dance Theater and the John Carroll Ballet Academy. She has choreographed routines for different competitive studios in the Maryland area as well. Denise's passion is educating and inspiring her students and seeing them progress and grow into smart and healthy artists. While Denise is currently teaching and choreographing, she also undergoing a Ailey Horton Teaching Certification and will be graduating in May 2026 from the Ailey School in NYC. Connect with Denise on Instagram @deenise_nicole Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our Inside EMC segment where we chat: Holiday Celebration and supporting your local dancers while making this show your annual family tradition Free Form Friday on December 19th and the Dancer Photo Shoot with Meghann Bulls plus free Poms classes with Alli Walker Rockstar Ballet Masterclass on Dec 29th, which will be a lovely way to get your body moving while on break, with Christian Richards Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

In this conversation, Robin Snyder-Wiencek & Norma Pera, discuss the multifaceted nature of dance education, emphasizing the importance of setting students up for success, the art of teaching, and the life lessons learned through dance. They highlight the significance of performance experience, the role of structure in dance classes, and the necessity of fostering resilience and independence in students. The conversation also touches on the emotional challenges faced by teenagers and the empowering nature of dance as a form of self-expression and personal growth. About Norma: Norma Pera began teaching at the Baltimore School for the Arts (BSA) when it opened in 1979 and assumed leadership of the Dance Department in 1992 following the retirement of renowned classical dancer Sylvester Campbell. Her dance training began at the age of three in a children’s ballet class at Carnegie Hall, and continued from age seven in the studio of Martha Manners on Long Island, NY. Norma went on to perform with the ballet company at Radio City Music Hall, Rudolf Nureyev and Friends, and the Maryland Ballet. She trained extensively under Elena Tchernichova and later taught ballet classes at both Carnegie Hall and in Baltimore. Campbell, her colleague at the Maryland Ballet, recruited her to join him at the then newly established BSA. At the time, many students had no prior ballet training, and Norma embraced the challenge of designing a curriculum that taught not only ballet technique but also its history and traditions. As Dance Department Head, she expanded the curriculum to include men’s classes, pas de deux, and men’s and women’s variations classes. Under her leadership, BSA became one of the few high schools in the nation granted permission to perform works by the legendary choreographer George Balanchine. Dancers trained under Ms. Pera have gone on to perform with esteemed companies including Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, Béjart Ballet, Charlotte Ballet, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Kidd Pivot, Lines Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Sacramento Ballet, and the Washington Ballet. Beyond the world of dance, BSA alumni under her guidance have also found success in a wide range of fields. They have worked with organizations such as DreamWorks Animation, the Kennedy Krieger Institute, and the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs, and have become doctors, social workers, and dance studio owners, among many other professions. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our Inside EMC segment where we chat: Production Rehearsals All Things Holiday Celebration Hub Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

In this engaging conversation, Robin Snyder-Wiencek speaks with Samantha Jo Harvey about her journey in the performing arts, from her early influences and training in dance to her experiences as a Rockette. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a career in dance, the transition to coaching and entrepreneurship, and the balance of motherhood with a thriving career. Samantha emphasizes the importance of authenticity, self-acceptance, and the lessons learned along the way, inspiring future generations of dancers to follow their passions. About Samantha:  Sam is a former pro dancer + fitness expert turned podcast host, coach, and guide for ambitious women who refuse to be put in a box. She’s a multidimensional mama showing the world that you can hold it all: the baby and the business, the softness and the fire, the money and the magic. During her 10-yr Rockette career she was chosen for prestigious performance opportunities like JLO on SNL, Pitbull on America’s Got Talent, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Wendy Williams Show, the Today Show and more. Other credits include Nike Master Trainer, Ted 2, MAC, Toyota, Beachbody’s 21 Day Fix, Denise Austin + more. After a decade kicking eye-high with the Radio City Rockettes, initiating a divorce, and building two multiple 6-figure businesses, Sam became a mindset ninja and champion of women living unapologetically full out. Her work is an invitation to every woman to stop shrinking, take up space, and write her own rules—because having it all isn’t just a dream, it’s a way of being. Sam’s clients have left jobs to travel the world, walked away from unfulfilling relationships, built empires from side hustles, and reignited intimacy in their partnerships—all while prioritizing their own body, mind, spirit, and joy. She’s trained on mindset + energetics across the US and internationally, and when she’s not dropping truth bombs on the Full Out podcast, you’ll find her in ballet class, sipping her favorite greens drink or soaking up snuggles with her son. To work with Sam, email sam@samanthajoharvey.com or connect with her on Instagram Follow on Instagram Listen to the Full Out Podcast Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our Inside EMC segment where we chat: Celebrating the Podcasts 1 Year Anniversary Costume Parade: What it is and why it’s important Holiday Celebration Production Kick-Off Production Rehearsals How to stop mindlessly scrolling using Brick Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

In this episode, Robin Snyder-Wiencek interviews Julie, The Musical Experience director at EMC Performing Arts Studio. They discuss Julie's journey into the theater world, her experiences in college, the evolution of auditions, and the importance of preparation and mentorship. Julie shares her insights on the challenges of staying focused in New York, the value of diverse roles in performing arts, and her reflections on her journey beyond Broadway. The conversation highlights the significance of passion, resilience, and the various paths within the performing arts. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: Ticket Pre-Sale and what to expect Holiday Celebration Hub Ballet & Tap Basics in the Holiday Celebration Tutu Under The Tree and how to join us for this special gift of dance Free Form Friday Recap for What’s the Pointe? How to stop mindlessly scrolling using Brick Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

Robin reconnects with longtime friend Kendall Ludwig — Baltimore-born designer, founder of Curly Red, and creator of Jitterbug, an adult-first dance studio in Oakland, MD. Kendall traces a life steeped in musicals, early stage fright, and a pivotal decision to keep dance a joyful constant rather than a career mandate. She shares how moving to a small town revealed a gap for adult classes, why she launched a low-pressure, seasonal class-pack model, and what actually fills (and doesn’t) in a rural market — hello, packed Sunday-night tap and sold-out swing workshops. Robin and Kendall swap stories on parenting while building businesses, the restorative power of creative breaks, and preparing kids for lives they’re excited to live. If you’ve ever thought “I’ve always wanted to take a dance class,” this episode is your nudge to try — before you talk yourself out of it. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: Free Form Friday Reminders Crazy Bun & Mis-Matched Sock Week Haunted Halloween House Soccer is Winding Down, Join us at EMC Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

Robin sits down with longtime collaborator and co-host Santina Rigano-Lesch to trace an unexpected path: from shy “studio kid” in Adelaide to Au Pair in the U.S., to studio owner, and ultimately to a remote career supporting arts businesses. They unpack how multi-genre training builds adaptable leaders, why resilience matters more than perfection, and what happens when success arrives before feedback skills. Santina shares the decision to close her studio in 2020, the reinvention that followed, and her new “studio without walls” model bringing dance directly to communities in need. If you’re a parent, educator, or arts leader wondering how performing-arts strengths translate beyond the stage, this conversation is an encouraging, practical roadmap. About Santina Rigano-Lesch Hi, I’m Santina — dancer, choreographer, and founder of Basic B Boogie (aka BBB). I believe movement heals, community matters, and your story deserves to be seen. I’m also the owner of Boom Studios, a mobile dance program serving the Greater Northwest. Fun, funky, and non-competitive, Boom brings classes straight to schools, community spaces, and events across Federal Way and beyond. From leading trauma-informed dance experiences to helping dance studios and movement pros level up their marketing, I bring culture, creativity, and a whole lot of vibe. Alongside teaching, I work as a stage manager, guest instructor, and choreographer, creating spaces where people feel empowered to move, grow, and connect — on the dance floor and beyond. Contact Info: Connect on Instagram  Check Out Her Website Email: creative@santinarigano.com Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: Shrewsbury Fireman’s Fest Class Mom Meeting Free Form Friday Class Openings Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

On today’s episode, Robin sits down with Christian Richards of Rockstar Ballet, to talk about how he got started in the ballet world, the many benefits of dance for boys/men, and the intricacies of partner work in dance. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: New Freedom Fest Halloween Rehearsal Class Openings Cirque Elementary Contemporary & AcroDance Open Gym Dress Code Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

What do haunted houses, rock and roll, and creative leadership have in common? Everything — if you’re talking about Field of Screams. This week on In the Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts, I sat down with Jim Schopf, founder of America’s #1 haunted attraction. But this isn’t just about thrills and chills—it’s about a powerful community of young people finding purpose and identity through performance. We talk: 🩸 Scare School and theatrical training 🎭 Volunteer culture and creative expression 🔥 The leadership lessons hidden behind the masks If you care about helping kids grow through the arts, you don’t want to miss this one. About Jim: Jim Schopf is the co-founder and driving force behind Field of Screams, one of the most acclaimed haunted attractions in the country, located in Mountville, Pennsylvania. With a passion for horror, theatrical production, and immersive storytelling, Jim has spent over three decades transforming a family farm into a Halloween destination that draws thrill-seekers from across the nation. Alongside his brother Gene, Jim launched Field of Screams in 1993, blending professional-grade sets, special effects, and live actors to create a terrifyingly fun experience. A hands-on leader, Jim is often found working on new haunt designs, brainstorming with his team, or interacting with guests to ensure every experience is unforgettable. His dedication to quality, innovation, and community engagement has cemented his legacy as a pioneer in experiential entertainment and agritourism. Jim continues to inspire future generations through hard work, passion, and a love for all things spooky. Contact Info: Facebook - Field of Screams | Mountville PA Instagram - @‌fieldofscreams Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: Free Form Fridays and their themes/dates Fall Tour with a Discovery Gym Demo announcement Explore EMC Week & Spirit Week Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here