Featured Photo credit: Monsee
If you have ever found yourself scrolling through TikTok and almost unconsciously pausing on a dance that seemed catchy yet simple enough, there’s a good chance it was choreographed by GiaNina Paolantonio. Since viral social media content, Broadway, film, and beyond, GiaNina has built a career that propels her raw talent and allows her to dare to do things her way.
GiaNina shares her experience with the collected self-assurance of someone who has an instinct for their own rhythm. “I don’t have a formula for success,” she says,“The only standard is that the brand of the song and artist match mine in terms of vibes and quality. That way, both of our fans are happy with what they get.”
You can’t deny her work. Whether she is launching viral dances for pop superstars such as Billie Eilish and Mariah Carey or choreographing for trending performers like Jessie Murph, GiaNina’s work is handwritten authenticity. However, behind the relevant and casually posted reels, there is a work process that is equally casual and effective. “Typically, I choreograph in my apartment kitchen,” she laughs. “I’m someone who works well under pressure, like in show business, when things have to happen almost immediately, I normally succeed. I have full faith in my work and try not to doubt whatever I come up with.”
GiaNina’s creative process is surprisingly unstrategic. She doesn’t start with a viral formula or a checklist of trends. “I fear I’m not strategic at all. I do what I love and hope that everyone else loves it too,” she says. And yet, strategy seeps in organically. Her awareness of an artist’s style, the mood of a song, and the platform where the dance will land ensures that the final product resonates.
It’s this instinctual approach that has made her collaborations so dynamic. Working with J.Lo, for instance, was less about choreography homework and more about letting the music guide her. “It’s just such a good song. I think it was bound to happen. Passion for a song makes magic happen!”
Her versatility is no accident. Broadway, film, and social media require different skill sets, and GiaNina’s career covers all three. “A well-rounded dancer is what makes you a great choreographer,” she explains. “No one in this industry can be a one-trick pony and have longevity. Because I had so much experience in so many different genres of dance, when it came to choreography, it wasn’t hard to pull it out of my back pocket.”
Yet, for all her professional accolades, GiaNina remains grounded. She refuses to let social media define her art or dictate her value. “People think I have some kind of magic and strategy and specific ways of working,” she says. “In reality, I try to keep it nonchalant and chill because that’s the best work environment. When things come out the most genuine and authentic, they succeed.”
This authenticity extends to her music. GiaNina is working on original tracks that reflect her personal journey, weaving vulnerability and storytelling into every note. “Not just music that I can dance to, but my favorite part is that they’re all true stories that relate to my life,” she says. “It’s very vulnerable and genuine.”
Her development and experiences as an artist parallel her own evolution as a person. Dance Moms and the Broadway show Matilda were both early proving grounds, but this past year has challenged her resilience in a way that nothing on stage could. “I’ve had so many great things happen, but also some really shitty things that teach you a lot about life,” she reflects. “I normally wear my heart on my sleeve, so it shows in my workspace too.”
GiaNina has a simple but powerful message for other creators: be yourself, say yes to whatever comes your way. “Please do not try to be someone you are not, but also take every opportunity that arrives in front of you, because every opportunity leads you to the next one!” In a world where formulas for success and following count are the obsession, GiaNina Paolantonio moves to her own beat. Maybe that is what has got her here, not a strategy, not magic- just a commitment to authenticity, passion, and a little bit of kitchen-floor choreography.
Photo credit: Monsee
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Anthony Mclaude, the enigmatic figure known as Rock & Roll’s Best Kept Secret, delves into the world of music journalism with a raw and unapologetic pen. From established icons to up-and-coming talents, Mclaude fearlessly reviews and reveals the diverse sounds that shape our musical landscape.
Raised in a Christian household by a single mother and grandmother in the 1990s, Mclaude’s journey into the world of rock ‘n’ roll began at a young age. The soulful melodies of The Rolling Stones and The Beatles, mixed with the pop sensibilities of Madonna and Alanis Morissette, created a soundtrack that would influence his future path.
A pivotal moment came in 7th grade when Mclaude’s storytelling prowess caught the attention of his teacher, Mrs. DeFeo. Her words of encouragement ignited a fire within him, propelling him towards a future in writing. Fast forward fifteen years, and Mclaude found himself studying journalism at Cumberland County College, honing his skills as a reporter for The Voice.
His dedication and passion for community journalism led him to a position at The People’s Press of Millville, where he made his mark with insightful articles and press releases. Collaborations with publications like Eclectic Shades, Rock At Night, and New Noise Magazine further solidified Mclaude’s reputation as a rising star in the world of music journalism.
With each byline, Mclaude continues to push the boundaries of his craft, capturing the essence of artists and their music with a unique perspective that sets him apart in the industry. As Rock & Roll’s Best Kept Secret, his journey is just beginning, with a future as bright and promising as the music he so passionately writes about.