Meet Gianinni Semedo Moreira: Dancer/Choreographer & Film Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gianinni Semedo Moreira and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gianinni, how do you think about risk?
To me, taking risks has been one of the most imporant things in my life and career in order to find success. You’ve got to play the game, in order to win. I keep reminding myself that no one makes it out alive and that life is extremely short, so why not take risks? It can be a strange thought to think that in 100 years, there are new people all over the world – while we (the ones that are here now) will all be resting in peace. That thought is somehow very motivating to me, because I feel I want to leave something great behind that would mean something to the next generation and the generations after. Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote Hamilton, has a great line in the song “Non-stop”: “Why do you write like you’re running out of time? Write day and night like you’re running out of time? Every day you fight, like you’re running out of time”. I relate to that, because I am aware that every day is a gift, a chance to do something great before your time comes. That has given me the drive, energy and hunger to keep pushing, to keep striving for greatness.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a professional dancer, choreographer and a film writer-director. I started dancing at age 15 and after a few years I auditioned for tv-show “So You Think You Can Dance” in The Netherlands. I ended third place and my life changed completely. I knew I wanted to move to the United States to dance for the biggest artists and shows. I started the long process of applying for my work visa and by age 21, I moved to Los Angeles to pursue my professional dance career.

In the past years, I achieved what I set out to do. To name a few artists I’ve gotten the chance to dance/tour with: Shakira, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj, Kanye West. I also booked a 3-year world tour with Cirque du Soleil, being one of the dancers in the “MJ Immortal” World Tour.

During all these amazing projects, I fell in love with filmmaking and started writing and directing short films. I knew that after my dance career, this is what I will do: Direct big movies.

The road to success is long and looks different for each person. Mine journey has had many ups and downs, just like any other person. Early on I learned that “no” or any “downs” are part of the journey. I learned to embrace it and use rejection to fuel my passion, my drive and my energy. I am not scared of rejection, I am only scared of not giving everything I’ve got. The way I deal with any rejection is to remember that what is for me, is for me. What is meant to be, will be. The only thing I’ve got to do is show up and give it my all. The rest I leave in God’s hands.

I want to touch, inspire and motivate people with my work. As a dancer it warms my heart to bring light to people. As a writer-director I hope my work will not only entertain, but also give people something to think about, talk about and hopefully inspire.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Coming from Rotterdam, The Netherlands (One of the most culturally diverse places in the world) I like places that have character, history and diversity of culture and backgrounds. Spending a week with me, would mean seeing a lot of different vibes and circle of people; The beach culture in LA, the Asian-American vibe in K-town, the dance industry in North Hollywood and the hip energy in West Hollywood.

Diversity is the keyword here, so that also means all sorts of different food and music. Latin, African, European, American.
One of my favorite things to do is chill out at Venice Beach, grab a cup of fresh mango at the fruitstand and stroll around on a beautifull sunny day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Cristina Piemonte

Website: www.gianinni.com

Instagram: Gianinni

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gianinni/