GROWING up as a dancer at Studio Phoenix in Wonthaggi, Marni McGrath aimed to pursue a dance career. Now she’s making an impact worldwide, living in the US and dancing professionally with renowned artists. But her latest performance at the MCG for Grand Final Day entertainment (September 27), where Marni was centre stage with Snoop Dogg, is one she still finds hard to believe.
Marni said dancing for artists is a dream, and it’s what she does for a living, but dancing for someone like Snoop Dogg – she said was crazy.
“He is a legend and has been present and relevant in the music industry for years! I'm still wrapping my head around it,” she said.
This was Marni’s second time performing at the MCG.
“It feels like a dream and like I'm doing it for the first time all over again. Looking out at 100 thousand people will never get old. It's honestly indescribable.
“We put so many hours of rehearsals in before the show, and on the day, I didn't have any challenges arise. We were so ready! But, it all happens so fast, so throughout the show, I was reminding myself to stay locked in, stay present and take it all in.”
With years of experience now, Marni doesn’t get super nervous anymore. “Of course, there are little jitters, but it's more excitement. I've learnt over the years how to calm them down. I always take a deep breath before stepping onstage and do a lot of positive self-talk in my head.
“Sometimes it makes me want to cry because I just can't believe what I get to experience, and I feel so grateful!”
Marni previously performed live with Katy Perry, and that career highlight, Marni said, can’t compare.
“Both experiences are unique to themselves. This one did feel extra special because I was flying home for it, and I feel like I have grown a lot as a person and an artist.”
Marni lives in America and therefore couldn’t attend an in-person audition. For this opportunity, she delivered a self-tape.
“I learnt the choreography through a video and sent it in.
“We then had one week of rehearsals to put it together. They were very long days and there was a lot of choreography and information to retain. I always stay prepared for when jobs like this come up, so physically I was ready. Mentally, it can get challenging at times, but that's when having a good routine comes into play. I eat well, try to get a good amount of sleep, and journal every morning before rehearsal. It helps me get into the zone and prepare for the day.”
The entire show at the MCG was choreographed from the entrance to the exit, transitions, and choreography.
Travelling back to Australia, Marni said this one felt so special!
“After living abroad for over four years, being back on Aussie soil to perform at an event of this scale is something I will never forget,” she said.
“I was dancing alongside friends I have known for up to 10 years, and I also met so many new, talented dancers from around Australia. I had younger dancers with me on the job who have been following my journey overseas, and for that, I am so grateful."
Marni highlighted that paving a way for the next generation is so special.
“The MCG never gets old. When I first stepped out onto the field, I saw a sea of faces and knowing my family were at home watching, it's honestly hard to put into words. I'm emotional, reliving it in my head,” Marni laughed.
Travelling for work, Marni said she still gets time with family back in the Bass Coast.
“I have sacrificed a lot by living in the States, and it always feels bittersweet, so I will be making the most of having this week with them and enjoying every moment."
Marni has been lucky to perform in many places across Australia and around the world, including Macau, Singapore, New Zealand, LA, Las Vegas, and New York City, but out of all her performances,
Marni said this one is now at the top of her list.
Growing up, Marni started at Dance Design when she was seven years old and then moved to Studio Phoenix (both in Wonthaggi) before moving to Melbourne at 18 to attend Jason Coleman's Ministry of Dance.
Dancing commercial, street styles and heels are Marni’s favourite genres and moving internationally for her career has been an adventure that constantly comes with challenges.
“No one can prepare you for it, but I wouldn't change a thing,” she said.
“The US is fast-paced.”
Marni also works as a model, but said it feels like a side hustle.
“At the moment I'm focusing on booking jobs with artists, but I always stay open-minded because you never know what can happen.”
Marni travelled to New York City when she was 17, and 10 years later, packed her bags and left Wonthaggi to move across the world.
“Younger me at Wonthaggi Secondary College would never have believed I would have achieved the things I've done. I was just a little country girl,” she said.
“But coming home always grounds me. As much as I love my life in America and what I have created and achieved for myself, I’ll never forget where I came from and who helped me get here. I have endless gratitude.”
Marni is returning to America on October 6 and said her chapter in New York is done for now.
“I am heading to Las Vegas, where I will base myself, and I'll start auditioning there and in LA. This industry comes with the unknown, and I am excited to see where it takes me.”