Today we’d like to introduce you to Greta Rolandi Fernicola.
Hi Greta , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey in dance began dancing at the age of four in my hometown of Genoa, Italy. From a very young age, I knew that dance was more than a hobby it was my purpose. At just eleven years old, I left home to pursue my dream, training at a prestigious Russian-style academy, where I later graduated in 2018.I later moved to New York City to further my studies at The Ailey School, graduating in 2022. Those formative years deeply shaped my artistic identity blending the discipline and precision of classical ballet with the freedom and emotional depth of contemporary movement.
After performing with various contemporary companies in New York and teaching across multiple studios, I felt compelled to create a space that reflected my values as both an artist and educator one that emphasizes individuality, authenticity, and professional excellence. This vision led to the founding of GRF Dance NYC, where I currently serve as Founder and Artistic Director.
In 2025, I launched the inaugural GRF Dance NYC Summer Intensive at New York Live Arts, bringing together internationally acclaimed guest artists and a diverse group of students from the U.S. and abroad. The program’s success reinforced my mission to build bridges between cultures and to nurture the next generation of dancers through high-level training, mentorship, and artistic exchange.
Today, I continue to balance my roles as director, educator, and performer, always guided by the belief that dance has the power to connect, inspire, and transform lives.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. From a very young age, the path was full of challenges both personal and professional. Growing up in the competitive world of dance taught me resilience early on. Leaving home at eleven to train at a Russian academy was both a privilege and a sacrifice; it required maturity, discipline, and strength beyond my years.
When I later moved to New York City the “Big Apple” the challenges took on a new form. I had just learned English about seven years ago, and suddenly I found myself alone in a huge, unfamiliar country, trying to build a life and career from the ground up. There were moments of loneliness and doubt, but also tremendous growth.
Every struggle became a lesson in perseverance and self-belief. Those experiences shaped who I am today as an artist, educator, and founder and remind me every day that no dream is too far when you lead with passion and purpose.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Through my work, I strive to blend artistry, education, and human connection. I am the Founder and Artistic Director of GRF Dance NYC, a company and training platform dedicated to inspiring dancers to move with authenticity, discipline, and heart. I specialize in contemporary and ballet-based movement, always emphasizing musicality, emotional depth, and individuality.
What I’m most proud of is the creation of the GRF Dance NYC Summer Intensive, which I launched in 2025 at New York Live Arts. The program brought together internationally recognized guest artists and passionate students from across the U.S. and Europe, creating a space that celebrates diversity, professionalism, and community. Seeing young dancers grow not only in technique but in confidence and artistry has been the most rewarding part of my journey.
What sets me apart is my ability to connect deeply with each dancer understanding both their strengths and their fears and helping them find their true voice through movement. My multicultural background, classical foundation, and contemporary sensibility allow me to bridge different worlds and teach dance as both a discipline and a form of personal expression.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The quality that has been most important to my success is perseverance. From leaving home at a young age to moving across the world on my own, I’ve learned that talent alone isn’t enough consistency, hard work, and the ability to keep going when things feel impossible make all the difference.
I’ve always believed that challenges are not obstacles but opportunities to grow stronger. My determination to keep learning, adapting, and believing in my vision even when the path felt uncertain is what allowed me to build GRF Dance NYC from the ground up.
Equally important is empathy. In my teaching and directing, I always try to see the person behind the dancer. I believe true success comes from inspiring others to see their own potential and helping them believe that their dreams are achievable too.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Grfdancenyc
- Other: Greta_rolandi_fernicola
Image Credits
Danilo Rolandi
