Meet Matthew Fata | Dancer, Choreographer & Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Matthew Fata and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Matthew, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind my success would have to be to letting happiness be my guide. When I first moved to Los Angeles, I got lost in trying to take the path most had already carved out, but I later realized it wasn’t truly fulfilling me. After reevaluating and truly understanding what made me happy, things started to align. That guide of happiness lead me to embrace my authenticity as a dancer and choreographer and stand out in an extremely difficult industry. I believe that I will always strive for excellence because I am fighting for something that I am so passionate about.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Getting to where I am today definitely was not an easy path. I grew up in a small town in Canada where my dreams were a bit too big for most. I was constantly being told that I would never be able to make a living doing what I love, but my hunger, drive and expectations for my life left me with no option but to succeed. I knew what I wanted for my life, and I wasn’t going to let anyone tell me otherwise. That doubt from others just fueled my drive and motivation to succeed. And of course I faced obstacles and failures along the way, but it was my love for what I do that pushed me forward. If you love what you’re doing, you’ll do anything in your power to keep doing it. And I hope to be an example of that. An example to all people who feel a little different and want more from their lives that its possible.
In regards to my dancing and choreography, they will always be my therapy. It’s the way I communicate and express all the complexities of my life when words don’t seem to do them justice. My true hope is that from these creations I am able to find a common ground with my audience where I can connect with them and allow them to open up and feel. Feel a multitude of emotions and really bring them on a journey. And this is exactly what I think separates me from many in my field today. My creations are rooted in storytelling and emotions, which then makes them relatable. Relatable to every single person in some way, shape or form because we all experience emotions. And that’s all I want as a creator. For people to see my art and be able to laugh, cry and experience everything in between. That connection is why I do what I do.
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.
1. Places to eat: Little Toni’s, best Italian restaurant in Los Angeles. Magnolia Grille, the definition of food made with love. California Chicken Cafe, best salad I’ve ever had. Mendocino Farms, the most delicious healthy meals.
2. Places to drink: EP & LP, the cutest rooftop with food and drinks. El Tejano, has the biggest margarita’s you could ask for. Brickyard, such a fun bar with games to play.
3. Places to visit/hang out: Pointe Dume Beach, the nicest beach with the least amount of people. Melrose Trading post, a huge flea market with everything you could possibly think of. Laemmle NoHo, cutest small theatre that plays independent and new films.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would not be where I am today without my mentor and friend, Jessica Gravelle. From the beginning of my career, she opened my eyes to a world of possibilities that seemed impossible for a small-town boy from Canada. With her guidance and support, she allowed me to see something that I was never able to see in myself. She not only took a chance on me, but truly and wholeheartedly believed in me. And for this, I will always be eternally grateful.
Instagram: @matthewjfata
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@matthewjfata
Other:
Instagram Choreography Page: @mjfchoreography
Image Credits
Justin Hartsaw