Features ROMI.HR

Mecnun Giasar stands as one of the most celebrated contemporary dancers, choreographers, and directors on the international stage. Hailing from a Roma community in a Turkish Muslim village in Komotini, Greece—just a stone’s throw from the Turkish border—he embodies both the resilience and richness of Roma heritage. As a proud representative of the Roma minority, Giasar has shattered stereotypes and redefined what is possible for marginalized voices in the world of performance art. His groundbreaking collaboration with global superstar Rosalía earned him a Grammy Award, making him the first Roma performance artist from Turkey to achieve this prestigious honor. Through his artistry, Giasar not only elevates the language of movement but also serves as an inspiring symbol of cultural pride and representation for Roma communities worldwide.

Mecnun Giasar’s journey began in Germany, where his exceptional talent in dance was recognized at an early age. At just 10 years old, he performed at the Franconian Championship and won the challenge round with two friends, marking his first major success. By the age of 14, he had already become Germany’s Hip-Hop Champion and went on to represent the country at the HipHop International World Championship in Las Vegas, gaining his first taste of global recognition. From there, Giasar steadily built his reputation in the dance world, working with some of the biggest names in music, including Rihanna, BTS, Madonna, and eventually Rosalía. In 2019, he expanded his artistic vision by directing the socially conscious documentary “Yacht – The Boat of Life,” showcasing his talent beyond choreography. His career took another leap in 2021 when he served as art director and choreographer for the movement film of the hit song “Madonna,” collaborating with popular German artists Bausa and Apache 207.

In the years that followed, Giasar became a prominent figure on television, appearing as an assistant judge on NBC’s World of Dance alongside Jennifer Lopez and later as a guest choreographic juror on the finale of Germany’s Next Topmodel with Heidi Klum. One of his most defining moments came through his collaboration with Rosalía on her Motomami World Tour, where he co-created the viral choreography for “Bizcochito.” This partnership ultimately earned him a Grammy Award, making him the first Roma performance artist from Turkey to receive this honor. Alongside his international projects, he also worked on Eurovision stage designs for Italy and Greece in 2024, further solidifying his global impact. Despite his worldwide success, Giasar remains deeply connected to his Roma and Turkish roots, proudly representing his heritage on stage and in his artistic expression. In June 2025, he made headlines in Turkey by performing with pop icon Hande Yener during Fenerbahçe Beko’s championship celebration, bringing his journey full circle as a cultural bridge between the Roma community, Turkey, and the international arts scene.

Most recently, in June 2025, Mecnun Giasar created a powerful choreography for Turkish singer Melike Şahin, blending his signature style with Roma-inspired movements and embodying different personalities and characters on stage. He is also currently collaborating with one of Turkey’s biggest pop stars, Edis, on an upcoming project that promises to merge contemporary dance with rich cultural elements. 

Beyond his international achievements, Giasar often shares moments of himself dancing to traditional Roma music, proudly stating that he never forgets his history and origins. Through his work, he not only serves as a positive representation and role model for the Roma community but also advocates for inclusivity and visibility as a strong supporter of the LGBT+ community.