We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Monica Delehanty a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Monica, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
I started dancing when I was 3 years old and continued ever since. I started dancing competitively at around age 10 and that really thrusted me into my love for dance. I took as many classes as a I could, assisted as many teachers as my schedule allowed me, and in my free time (which was rare), I was deeply researching dance as a profession. When I reached high school and the talks of a career were brought up, it was very clear that my path was very very different than the people around me. Most of my high school classmates went on to Top Colleges pursuing degrees in Finance, Political Science, and Medical Fields. I never had a thought in my head about doing something else or pursuing a “normal” job. But, I quickly found out the views of my peers around me after a particular math project. The project was to pick 3 jobs and outline the salary and earnings in a way that shows a comfortable living in finances. I of course picked a Broadway dancer, Cruise Ship Performer, and World Tour dancer for an Artists- all of which are/were dream jobs of mine. I did all the work and did it correctly outlining how I’d make a living on each. But to my surprise, my senior math teacher felt very differently. I remember walking into class as she’s handing out the graded projects. She handed me mine and said “this will not work, you might want to reassess this”. She proceeded to tell the whole class about my project and how I will never be able to make a living off of dancing. I fought with her until the class ended which luckily was shortly after, and before I knew it I had friends of mine coming up to me in the hallways expressing their shared anger. It was definitely a moment that rocked me because as a student, you always look up to your teachers to guide you. Not only had she torn apart my dreams but she made it clear that money was in fact what determined your success. This did however work in my favor because since that moment, I did everything I could to prove her wrong. I went on to sign with a top talent agency in Los Angeles, danced in numerous commercials & tvshows, and later became a choreographer for the Top dance brand in the world- Capezio. I often referred to my life as “pursuing a career my math teacher said I couldn’t”
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Born and raised right outside of New York City, I started training in dance at age 3. I danced competitively for about 12 years where I was taught by retired Broadway performers such as Anita Ehrler and Frank Mastrocola. I won 1st place in numerous regional and national competitions, as well as being named Dancer’s Inc.’s “Dancer of the Year”. I also was Onstage New York’s Top Scoring Senior Soloist for my solo “For You” where I was also scouted by an agency in LA.
I went on to train at The Joffrey Ballet School in NYC under their Jazz & Contemporary Trainee Program. I danced at Broadway Dance Center and then moved to Los Angeles to follow her career in Commercial Dance. I since have been seen on Modern Family, Comedy Central, and Big Little Lies. I have performed at the Prudential Center, danced in a National Weinerschnitzel commercial, and is a reoccuring athlete on ClassPass Live. I now am the choreographer for the world renowed dance brand- Capezio. You can find my work on my instagram or YouTube at @_mondel.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
As a dancer, I always had said my dream is to help make other dreams come true. To be a back up dancer on a tour for a top chart artist, helping their dream come to life is a goal of mine. Making their dreams become reality. As a choreographer & teacher, the most rewarding aspect is truly seeing my students grow. Watching that lightbulb moment and seeing their excitement is something I hold so close to my heart. Growing up I was told I was a role model for so many young dancers and I never took that title lightly. I always knew that whatever I am doing or saying will be watched by little kids aspiring to be greater. Even as an adult, I still know the important of being a role model and how much these young dancers truly copy what I am doing. I know, because I definitely was once one of them.
How did you build your audience on social media?
building a social media presence for me came very quickly once I had moved out to LA. I was dancing CONSTANTLY and with that, CONSTANTLY posting dance videos and content. I also think being a 19 year old living out her dream in LA, gave me a sense of our joy which I portrayed to my followers. I was very open and shared a lot about my life online. Its funny because as i get older, I often think “no one cares”, but in reality it just makes you more relatable. People love to relate and feel like they are not alone. I was very real and to be honest, all I did day-to-day was dance.. and that was exactly what I was posting. My followers enjoy my dance content the most, which in doing my research, is my niche. My advice for artists and creatives wanting to grow their social media is to just GO! just do it! Theres nothing that isn’t post-able when first starting out. Share, be real, show the ups and downs. With that though, it’s very important to have thick skin, don’t take any comment, negative or positive, too much to heart!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.monicadelehanty.com
- Instagram: @_mondel
- Twitter: @_mondel
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaDelehanty
Image Credits
Lee Gumbs Photography