Daniel Padierna: Embracing Diversity and Artistic Expression

Daniel Padierna’s path from Montclair to the peak of the dance industry exemplifies resilience, enthusiasm, and the transformational power of education. Padierna has emerged as a trailblazing figure in choreography and dance advocacy, having earned a bachelor’s degree in Dance Education from Montclair and further honing his skills at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts in the Master of Fine Arts, Dance program.

Padierna vividly recalls his time at Montclair and the loving environment that aided his personal and artistic development. “My journey at both Montclair and New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts were transformative experiences that deeply influenced my identity as an educator, creator, and dance artist,” he said. “Montclair provided a nurturing environment where I explored my personal identity and honed my skills through immersive involvement in the College of the Arts.”

Padierna studied dance at Tisch, driven by a desire to uncover the inner reasons that propel his creative expression through movement. “While my initial aspiration was to pursue a career as a professional performer, a pivotal injury altered my trajectory and steered me towards choreography,” he said. “This unexpected shift ignited a newfound passion as choreography emerged as a medium to channel the same intensity and fervor I experienced on stage.”

Padierna dedicates himself to his profession, stressing ongoing development through immersion in the dance community, despite the demands of full-time work at Shenandoah University. “Balancing the demands of a full-time position with teaching and creating leaves limited time for daily training,” he said. “However, I prioritize continual growth by seizing every opportunity to immerse myself in the dance community.”

As a queer Latino, Padierna’s artistic identity is inherently intertwined with advocacy and inclusivity. His work exemplifies the richness of variety by recognizing marginalized groups and advocating for inclusive industry standards. “Navigating the dance community as a queer Latino empowers me to carve out spaces of representation and pave the way for future generations of artists,” he said.

Padierna focuses on perseverance and self-discovery for aspiring dancers at Montclair who have faced rejection. “Embracing the audition process as a journey marked by growth and self-discovery is crucial for resilience in the face of rejection,” he advises. “Each audition serves as an opportunity for refinement and self-improvement, propelling aspiring dancers towards their ultimate artistic vision.”

When addressing students with unsupportive parents, Padierna draws on personal experience to encourage them to advocate for their passion with conviction and determination. “For students facing similar challenges, I encourage demonstrating the inherent value and significance of pursuing a career in dance,” he said. “By advocating for passion with conviction and determination, students can bridge the gap between familial expectations and personal aspirations, forging a path guided by authenticity and purpose.”

Daniel Padierna’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring dancers everywhere, a testament to the transformative power of education, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s passion. As he continues to break boundaries and advocate for inclusivity in the dance community, his legacy as a trailblazer and visionary grows ever stronger.
Written By, Ashley Rodriguez