We had the good fortune of connecting with Aaron Quini and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aaron, what’s your definition for success?
If I had been asked this question a few years ago, my response probably would have sounded something like ‘to be successful is to be happy’. Now, I realize that it’s not always so simple. No matter the chosen path, anyone’s success is found through RESULTS; One cannot be successful without first having a goal, a desire, or a dream–the idea of success also does not exist without the idea of failure. Sometimes, the goal is not to reach a tangible place, but rather to simply experience a certain feeling or emotion (e.g. happiness!). In this case, success can be defined by ‘being happy’. Personally, success is defined in numerous ways. I have lots of short-term, long-term, and lifelong goals: To go on tour, to choreograph a music video, to put my own show on Broadway, to open my own dance studio. I would recognize my own success by saying “I did it!” and updating my resumé. Another one of my goals is to instill and maintain a sense of drive and passion within those around me, and to positively represent my generation of dancers through an ever-evolving industry. By these terms and despite still being in one of the earlier stages of my career, I am successful. However, this was not always the case. To reach this point, I did have to persevere through lots of hardship in my personal and work life. I know I speak for many when I say success is also defined by overcoming past or present failure.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a dance artist. Under this umbrella term, I am also a professional dancer, choreographer, creative director, teacher, instructor and student. Generally speaking, the goal is always to share an idea, feeling or concept. This can be done onstage, on film, in a studio, etc. The means of how it gets done will vary, but the goal is always the same. My job is essentially the same as any other artist using any other medium; The music is my canvas, my heart is the paintbrush, and my body is the vessel.

This line of work is always lots of fun because no one in the industry shares the same perspective. Each person’s art is unique to the individual; you’ll never find two of the same. There are virtually no rules (unless you’re working under a contract, of course). Similarly, no two jobs are the same! If I work on two music videos, the creative process will be entirely different each time, even if the same exact team/artist is involved. Every day on the job is an adventure!

Like most careers, this is not an easy path to walk, despite having many different routes. I’m here today thanks to a curious, eager mind and a boundless spirit. I’ve felt called to continue down this road since I first started, so giving up was never an option. Over time, I’ve gotten used to hearing “no” or “better luck next time” after auditions or calls, or better yet no response at all. I’ve learned that this is simply a game of finding your people, because they do, in fact, exist. I’ve found mine; the next step is only to execute!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Even if my best friend came for TWO weeks we’d still only have just a little time to hang out, because we’d spend most of our time training together in the studio! (I wouldn’t have it any other way) If they had never been to LA, though, there are a few mandatory, non-dance-related stops to make before they depart.

1. Runyon Canyon trail
Out of all the hikes I’ve been on, this is my favorite to bring friends on; it’s not too long, but is still a solid challenge with a rewarding view of the city and the Hollywood Hills.

2. Jones
This is undoubtedly my favorite restaurant in LA. A dimly lit upscale casual spot with a fantastic food and drink menu and great energy! My girlfriend and I are regulars here.

3. All Season Brewing
For the 21+ club. During my time as a server, I’d come here after work to enjoy some tacos, a beer or three, and a few rounds of skee-ball!

4. Santa Monica Pier
Carnival attractions, impeccable LA sunsets and the beach! In my opinion, definitely worth the unavoidable post-sundown traffic.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Kolanie Marks is easily the first name that comes to mind. A selfless warrior and an absolute vessel to countless others in the entertainment industry, Kolanie has helped shape my relentless spirit and has believed in me since we met. His faith in me has been consistent and has been the catalyst for much of my success since my transition to LA.

Keone & Mari Madrid have also been a constant example of how far a good work ethic paired with a humble heart can get you. I had the privilege of dancing as a cast member in their show, Beyond Babel, and was always in awe of the energy they brought to the table–in and out of the studio.

My friends Piper and Siena both lent me places to sleep while I was living out of my car for much of 2021. Undoubtedly some of the most pivotal cards in play over the past year; there’s no chance I’d be here if not for them.

Instagram: instagram.com/aaronquini

Image Credits
Wes Klein, Steven Ruggiero

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