EP 50: Gen Z Men Redefining Dance with Rahja "King" Fuller

Rahja Fuller did not luck into the Brandy and Monica Tour. He trained for it, prepared for it, and walked into the audition like he belonged there.   On Dance Dad, host John Corella talks with dancer, singer, actor, and former Pop Money member Rahja Fuller about how to become a professional dancer with focus, humility, and real industry awareness. At just 19, Rahja has already moved from competition dance to major stages.   Learning how to become a professional dancer is not only about being talented. It is about doing the small jobs before the big ones, taking unpaid opportunities when they build real experience, and understanding that relationships matter. Walk in like you belong there. Let your personality show. Stay present in the room. Focus on what makes you stand out instead of worrying about who else might book the job.   This conversation also gives space to a thoughtful discussion about Gen Z, masculinity, and the expectations placed on young men in dance. Rahja speaks openly about ballet, contemporary, hip hop, breakdance, and the way masculinity and male dancers are often talked about from the outside. His take on masculinity is rooted in confidence, discipline, self-respect, and comfort in your own skin.   For young dancers, parents, teachers, and anyone trying to understand what it really takes to build a career in entertainment, this episode offers more than a success story. It is a clear reminder that preparation matters long before the audition starts. Rahja is young, driven, and already thinking like someone who wants to bring people with him. Work hard. Stay ready. Know your history. And when the room opens, dance like you already know why you are there.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Dance Dad with John Corella and Guest Rahja Fuller 02:56 How Rahja Booked the Boy Is Mine Tour Audition at 19 04:08 Why Dance Competition Kids Make Better Professional Dancers 11:52 What Competition Dance Teaches You About Rejection and Resilience 28:26 The Role of a Supportive Dance Dad in a Dancer's Success 41:27 Dance Audition Tips from a 19-Year-Old Who Booked a Major Tour 54:39 Masculinity and Male Dancers in 2026 1:07:27 Why Doing Free Work Is Essential to Building a Dance Career Connect with Rahja Fuller: Follow Rahja on Instagram    Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm