Press release
Menina Fortunato Attends the Star-Studded Gala of the Stars and Interviews Dance Legends
Los Angeles, CA - October 24, 2024 - Internationally acclaimed dancer, choreographer, and founder of the Business of Dance Podcast, Menina Fortunato, had the extraordinary honor of being one of a few members of the press invited to the Gala of the Stars, held at the iconic Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills. As part of the exclusive media team, Menina interviewed some of the most celebrated figures in entertainment and dance, including award honorees and red carpet talent at this prestigious event.
The Gala of the Stars, which supports Dancers Against Cancer, brought together legends of dance and entertainment, honoring their achievements and shining a spotlight on the dance industry's profound impact. Reflecting on the unforgettable night, Menina said, "I never imagined my podcast, Business of Dance, would stand among major outlets like E News, People Magazine, US Weekly, TMZ & other major outlets. This event was not only a dream come true, but also a humbling experience to share space with some of the biggest names in dance."
Celebrating Dance Icons: A Night to Remember
The evening honored some of the biggest names in dance and entertainment:
*
Liza Minnelli, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her iconic contributions to entertainment.
*
Paula Abdul, presented with the Dance Legacy Award for her trailblazing dance / entertainment career.
Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/ed7920793cdb4e145126756d3c8ae7bd.jpg
*
Maksim Chmerkovskiy (Dancing with the Stars / So You Think You Can Dance), was the host of the show
Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/fa6813cc0cacc7d535b07a927ec9c445.jpg
*
Jamal Sims, awarded the Trailblazer Award for his innovative work in the dance industry.
Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/ed919a2650d4ede495fad6728749473b.jpg
*
Parris Goebel, honored with the Dance Innovator Award for her cutting-edge choreography and contributions to global pop culture.
*
Kyle Hanagami, recognized with the Vanguard Award for his visionary leadership in choreography.
*
Jojo Siwa, choreographed the opening number with dozens of young dancers (6 of whom were Menina's Business of Dance mentees) and performed a show stopping tribute to Liza Minnelli
Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/db98ce3e53fe166cf7de4696219ec86b.jpg
Other notable stars include: Abby Lee Miller (Dance Moms, Dance with Me)
Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/39400b3d02faff202fba2a76a632ada4.jpg
Harry Shum Jr (Grey's Anatomy, Glee, Crazy Rich Asians) & Shelby Rabara (Steven Universe)
Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/43631c706b21fa107fe37080285eb573.jpg
Phil Wright (Disney's Fam Jam) & Ashley Wright
Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/7625b511913e15d588652d0050c569a1.jpg
Brian Friedman (The X Factor UK & USA, Britney Spears), was the recipient of the Educator Award at the Industry Dance Awards the night prior.
Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/c715b0d9f98f1c9fac6a8acfe76af759.jpg
As an avid supporter of the arts and advocate for dancers, Menina was especially excited to speak with these trailblazers on the red carpet many of whom were her long time friends.
She had a memorable conversation with Paula Abdul.. "Growing up, her music, dance & choreography was a huge inspiration - she was my first concert at 12, my first dance gig when I moved to LA to chase my dance dreams in 2001. Fast forward to 2019, I saw her with my family at her Vegas concert. And now in 2024, I've had the honor of interviewing her and witnessing her legacy being celebrated. It was a full circle moment.
When I shared this story with her, she hugged me so tight. My heart melted and the inner child in me was crying tears of joy!," Menina shared.
Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/829a058ebc49d53b09bbf87de4220839.jpg
A Night of Glamour and Emotional Moments
The Gala of the Stars was not only a celebration of artistic excellence but also a reminder of the tight-knit dance community's dedication to supporting each other through tough times. The gala raised significant funds (over $588,000) for Dancers Against Cancer, a cause close to Menina's heart. "Seeing the community come together for such an important cause made the night even more meaningful. The emotional energy was palpable as HOPE stories were shared including one of Donyelle Denise Jones, a dancer I worked with years ago at the Latin American Music Awards with Maluma" Menina commented.
Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/457b91f5cf30042c255d1cc9784d8933.jpg
A Career-Defining Moment for Menina Fortunato
For Menina, this event marked a significant milestone in her evolving career. "Being part of this elite press team and sharing the red carpet with such influential figures has given me a renewed sense of purpose. I'm more determined than ever to use my platform to elevate dancers and bring attention to the industry's unsung heroes," Menina said.
Menina's Business of Dance Podcast has quickly gained recognition for providing dancers with essential tools and insights to thrive in their careers. Her involvement in such high-profile events further cements her position as a thought leader in the dance industry. "I am really grateful for this experience and am honored to be apart of a beautiful night celebrating the dance industry," she shared.
Looking Ahead
As Menina looks to the future, she remains focused on growing her podcast and expanding her impact within the dance world. Her experience at the Gala of the Stars has reinforced her commitment to giving dancers a platform to share their stories and amplify their voices.
For more information on Menina Fortunato and the Business of Dance Podcast, visit www.bizofdance.com [https://www.bizofdance.com/]
Media Contact
Company Name: Business Of Dance
Contact Person: Menina Fortunato
Email: Send Email [http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=menina-fortunato-attends-the-starstudded-gala-of-the-stars-and-interviews-dance-legends]
Country: United States
Website: https://www.bizofdance.com/
This release was published on openPR.
Permanent link to this press release:
Copy
Please set a link in the press area of your homepage to this press release on openPR. openPR disclaims liability for any content contained in this release.
You can edit or delete your press release Menina Fortunato Attends the Star-Studded Gala of the Stars and Interviews Dance Legends here
News-ID: 3709191 • Views: …
More Releases from Getnews
Author Eddie Ruzzi Releases Two Science Fiction Novels Amid Rising Interest in P …
Image: https://www.globalnewslines.com/uploads/2025/12/1766537389.jpg
Eddie Ruzzi
Ruzzi's Novels Tackle Institutional Ethics and Technological Extremism in Speculative Settings.
Los Angeles, CA - Author, Musician, and Sound Editor Eddie Ruzzi [https://eddieruzzi.com/]has released two new science fiction novels, Death Ball and Science Pulp Fiction, at a time when political, military, and pulp-format speculative fiction is attracting renewed attention across publishing, streaming, and print platforms. Analysts note a growing audience for works that integrate structured procedural formats with speculative…
Apple Roofing Completes Full Integration of NMC Exteriors, Expanding Minnesota P …
Image: https://www.globalnewslines.com/uploads/2025/12/1767118605.jpg
Plymouth, MN - December 30, 2025 - Apple Roofing, a top-tier national roofing company known for delivering excellence across residential and commercial roofing services, has officially completed the full integration of NMC Exteriors, one of Minnesota's most trusted roofing brands. Effective January 1, 2026, the NMC Exteriors locations in Plymouth and Rochester will begin operating under the Apple Roofing name, ushering in a new era of service, resources, and…
Leonard Cagno Announces Adoption of a New Internal Privacy and Data Handling Sta …
New policy formalizes how client data is collected, used, stored, and reviewed across operations
Leonard Cagno has announced the adoption of a new internal privacy and data handling standard across his business operations, including work connected to wellness and related service areas. The policy formalizes how sensitive information is managed across health insurance, wellness benefits, payroll, and technology integrations.
The updated standard introduces clearer rules around data access, storage, and review. It…
Interview with Patrick Cotter, Founder of Cotter Financial Group on the Influent …
Image: https://authoritypresswire.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Patrick_Cotter__1_-removebg-preview.png
Patrick Cotter discusses the importance of proactive retirement planning
Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-patrick-cotter-founder-of-cotter-financial-group-discussing-proactive-retirement-planning/
In this episode of Influential Entrepreneurs, host Mike Saunders welcomes Patrick Cotter, founder of Cotter Financial Group, to discuss proactive retirement planning and ensuring longevity in retirement. Patrick shares his journey into the financial services industry, which began unexpectedly after graduating as an engineering major in 1987. He reflects on his…
More Releases for Menina
Menina Fortunato Interviews Debbie Gibson, JoJo Siwa, Abby Lee Miller, and Indus …
The Business of Dance Podcast host captures exclusive red carpet interviews at the Beverly Hilton charity gala benefiting Dancers Against Cancer
Image: https://www.globalnewslines.com/uploads/2025/10/c5f5e9af573a4a6ec36d3303388ecd97.jpg
Beverly Hills, CA - The Gala of the Stars, one of the most glamorous and inspiring nights in the dance world, united icons, choreographers, and rising talent at the Beverly Hilton for an unforgettable celebration benefiting Dancers Against Cancer (DAC). On the red carpet, Menina Fortunato, host of The…
Arsenal Volleyball 15U Wins AAU Junior National Championship - Only 15U Team fro …
Underdog team from British Columbia rises to the top at North America's largest volleyball tournament
Image: https://www.globalnewslines.com/uploads/2025/07/67dafcb9ec3345c5372a631d6a8661fc.jpg
Orlando, FL - In a standout first-year performance, Arsenal Volleyball Club's 15U girls team made history as the only Canadian team to podium at the 2025 AAU Junior National Volleyball Championships - capping off their debut season by winning the 15U Elite Amethyst A Championship.
With over 5,000 teams competing at AAU Nationals - and 1,000+…
Europe Funeral Products Market to See a Growth of 5.4% CAGR by 2031 | Persistenc …
The Europe funeral products market is undergoing a transformative phase, driven by demographic shifts, cultural diversification, and evolving consumer preferences. As societies across the region embrace new values around sustainability, personalization, and digital connectivity, the funeral industry is adapting to reflect these priorities. From eco-friendly coffins and biodegradable urns to digitally enhanced memorial services, the market is seeing a surge in innovation and inclusivity.
In 2024, the market is estimated to…
Europe Funeral Products Market to Surpass US$ 14.7 Bn by 2031 Amid Increasing De …
The Europe funeral products market is undergoing a substantial transformation, driven by shifting cultural values, technological advancements, and heightened environmental awareness. In 2024, the market was valued at approximately US$ 10.2 billion, and it is projected to reach US$ 14.7 billion by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4%. This notable growth can be attributed to the aging European population, increasing preferences for personalized funeral services,…
Two Dancers from The Business of Dance Mentorship Program Perform in Super Bowl …
Image: https://www.globalnewslines.com/uploads/2025/02/d292338a727ee1a6ea21c99c70094b73.jpg
New Orleans, LA - Two rising stars from The Business of Dance online mentorship program, Keyaura Km from Seattle, WA, and Alaina David from Darby, Pennsylvania, joined the field cast during the Super Bowl Halftime Show, performing alongside Kendrick Lamar, SZA, Samuel L. Jackson, and Serena Williams at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.
Under the creative direction of Charm La'Donna, Keyaura and Alaina rehearsed for two weeks, bringing their…
