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Jorge Dorsinville, Movement Director
How would you describe your work?
What I do is BODYtelling. I create emotion in a meaningful and sculptural way. I have a specific physical vocabulary that continuously seeks to connect with the idea of freedom and beauty. This can manifest in various ways, such as directing fashion shows, creating content for ad campaigns, working on editorial projects, or choreographing for films. Ultimately, it’s all about connection.
What sets your approach apart?
Movement is synonymous with trust. Much of my work focuses on fostering a trusting relationship between myself and the talent. When there is trust in the process, the movement reflects a belief in the idea and the message we want to convey. A person will express their movement if they feel they won’t be judged. Only then can I support and direct them effectively. My goal is always to understand the essence of the individual and push their capabilities.
When did your passion for dance first begin, and how did it evolve into your career as a movement director?
Among all my memories, one stands out vividly: growing up in Salvador, Bahia, I often feared being bullied for expressing myself through movement. One day, I witnessed a traditional neighborhood competition called “Gyncana,” that highlights unique performances. This spectacle inspired a profound sense of freedom of expression that deeply affected me. I believe that movement heals, transforms, inspires, and moves the planet. Just like nature, our bodies are made to move. At the beginning, I translated the idea of movement into choreography—a dance, methodically crafted. Later, it evolved into recognizing that directed movement could be as simple as a still body lifting a finger in a certain way or a full-on “routine.” I also appreciate the relationship between object and movement—how one can inform the other.
What other jobs have you had?
Intern at a court of justice, dance teacher for kids with autism and Down syndrome, housekeeper, car detailer, extra on Ryan Murphy’s TV shows, production assistant, Santa Claus helper at a mall, music concert host, and so much more! I’ve clearly lived a very eclectic life.
What inspires your creative process, and how do you translate those inspirations into movement for your work?
So many things…Life inspires me! But in particular (and in no special order). Mature bodies: They are like a full plate of the finest food in the world; they carry countless values, stories, treasures, and inspiration. They are the true guardians of movement, showcasing the most polished gestures and presenting a vivid display of life in motion. Food: For the art of fusion, the idea of transforming nothing (or something unexpected) into a sensorial journey of discovery. Architecture:For its geometric and graphic aspects. When I’m creating, I always think about architecture. Nature: For being the most incredible movement right in front of our eyes.
What do you love about what you do?
Helping people reconnect with themselves.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced professionally, and how have they shaped your growth?
Educating people about what I do and finding space within the industry has fueled me to see opportunities where I hadn’t before. If you think about it, movement is part of everything in life.
How do you use movement to convey emotion or atmosphere in a campaign or editorial?
They are two different territories, and both are selling a product. For a campaign, the movement should align with the creative vision and the brand. In an editorial context, we can push the boundaries. The movement is meant to add value, provoke thought, seduce, inspire, define what comes next, enhance the appeal of the product, and invite the audience to dream with us.
How do you adapt your direction to work with different types of talents—whether new faces, seasoned professionals, or non-traditional models?
I worked for many years assisting theater directors and in the music industry, helping actors, singers, and musicians discover their body expression on stage. Part of my work is understanding that each body brings a different story. I feel my role is to creatively make their BODYography the hero of the story. I love being able to recreate a new story every single time.
What’s one thing outside of your work that you would like people to know about you?
I am driven by love. I believe, like movement, love is a force of transformation and a healer. During the pandemic, I created the OnlyLove movement to help spread love and remind people of its power. Through the OnlyLove t-shirts and sweatshirts, I allowed people to help me share the message that love is more than a feeling—it’s an action.
How has the role of movement evolved in fashion, and how do you envision it shaping the future of storytelling in the industry?
The role of movement director is finally gaining recognition in the fashion industry. However, we still face challenges, such as a lack of budget for this role in productions. I believe this stems from a lack of understanding of the value we bring to the final result and the artistic possibilities we can explore. There is always something that can be creatively reinterpreted, reimagined, or expressed when my role is involved. As with any emerging role, it will take time for full appreciation and integration, but I remain optimistic about the future. Every opportunity I’ve had has been celebrated, and we’ve positioned ourselves as a vital part of the creative process. Movement is a marker of culture, and we need to remind people of that.
