135 - Alison Stroming: Alberta Ballet, Kendrick Lamar, Jennifer Lopez, Aretha Franklin, Dance Theatre of Harlem, and founder of AS Dancewear.
From The Business of Dance by MENINA FORTUNATO
June 7, 2026 · 47 min
About this episode
Alison Stroming discusses her journey from classical ballet to a diverse career in dance and entrepreneurship.
Interview Date: May 31st, 2026 Episode Summary: In this episode, Alison Stroming shares her inspiring journey from classical ballet training to building a dynamic career across concert dance, commercial work, teaching, choreography, and entrepreneurship. She reflects on her early training at the School of American Ballet and American Ballet Theatre’s JKO School, the challenges of rejection, and the career-defining opportunities that led her to dance with Alberta Ballet, Ballet San Jose, and Dance Theatre of Harlem. Alison opens up about transitioning from ballet into the commercial dance world, including her move to Los Angeles and booking major opportunities with artists such as Jennifer Lopez, Mariah Carey, Kendrick Lamar, Brent Faiyaz, Kanye West, and more. She highlights the importance of versatility, visibility, resilience, and trusting your instincts while navigating the dance industry. Beyond performing, Alison discusses the launch of A.S. Dancewear and what it takes to build a business while remaining connected to the dance community. She shares how the pandemic shifted her priorities and pushed her to redefine success on her own terms. Her story is a powerful reminder…
People in this episode
Host: MENINA FORTUNATO
Guest: Alison Stroming
Topics covered
- dance career
- entrepreneurship
- commercial dance
- ballet training
- resilience
- dance industry
Keywords
- Alison Stroming
- dance career
- A.S. Dancewear
- commercial dance
- ballet
- resilience
- dance industry
- Jennifer Lopez
- Kendrick Lamar
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Alberta Ballet, Dance Theatre of Harlem, A.S. Dancewear, School of American Ballet, American Ballet Theatre
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