147 - Joey Vice: Cirque De Soleil’s KOOZA, BalletRED, and Netflix’s Star Search

Interview Date: August 16thEpisode Summary:In this episode of The Business of Dance Podcast, Menina Fortunato sits down with Los Angeles-based performer, choreographer, acrobat, and educator Joey Vice to explore the unconventional path that took him from a young competitive dancer in Ohio to performing his dream role with Cirque du Soleil. Joey shares how he transitioned from soccer to dance, developed a strong technical foundation in ballet and jazz, and independently expanded into contemporary and acro. By 12, he had already set his sights on Cirque, studying its artists, training methods, and performance style in preparation for the career he wanted.That preparation paid off when Cirque du Soleil contacted Joey at just 18 years old and ultimately cast him in KOOZA. He opens up about the elaborate makeup process, the physical demands of touring, performing up to 10 shows per week, and developing the acting, improvisation, stamina, and versatility required of a Cirque artist. After two years on tour, Joey chose to step away from his childhood dream job to explore the broader dance industry and eventually relocated to Los Angeles.Joey also takes listeners behind the scenes of his transition into television and commercial work, including being discovered through social media for BalletRED and appearing on Netflix’s Star Search. During the mentee Q&A, he shares advice on strengthening acro technique, overcoming fear, researching who you audition for, embracing individuality, and continuing to train. His message throughout the episode is to stay curious, work hard, ask questions, and surround yourself with people who are pursuing similar goals.Shownotes:03:56 – From soccer player to passionate dancer06:00 – Building his unique acro-contemporary style09:06 – Training specifically for a Cirque career12:08 – Booking his dream job at eighteen14:23 – Learning Cirque’s elaborate makeup process19:13 – Inside life performing with Cirque25:03 – The unexpected realities of touring young28:54 – Transitioning from Cirque to Los Angeles29:20 – Social media opens the Star Search door30:37 – Eight months preparing for BalletRED33:26 – Behind the scenes of live television43:03 – Q&A begins with aspiring dancers46:59 – Q&A: Strengthening and improving acro technique53:39 – Q&A: Research who you audition for1:03:32 – Final advice: Keep training and asking questionsBiography:Joey Vice is a versatile performer and choreographer who has been making waves in the dance industry since his teenage years. At just 18, his exceptional talent and dedication led him to become the lead role in Cirque du Soleil’s KOOZA.Now based in Los Angeles, Joey works as a freelance choreographer, teacher, and performer, creating innovative choreography and jaw-dropping tricks. His career has included performing in music videos for artists such as 070 Shake, Marina, and Vana, and most recently appearing on Netflix’s Star Search with BalletRED.Joey is currently on faculty at Millennium Dance Complex and has worked as a teacher and choreographer for Joffrey Ballet School. Joey’s mission is to push the boundaries of dance while inspiring the next generation of artists through creativity, athleticism, and passion for performance.Connect on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joeythedancer/