In their own words, the artists of Ballet Manila share their thoughts and experiences on not merely surviving but flourishing in the very challenging world of dance. This series is a collection of personal anecdotes, as well as words of wisdom that can be heartwarming, funny or dramatic, but always inspiring regardless of what field one is pursuing.

Nagkaroon na rin po ako ng injury sa tuhod. Kapag sobrang pagod na, sumasakit talaga siya. Ang hirap kasi kapag gusto mong sumayaw pero may nararamdaman ka, kailangan mo talagang ipahinga. Sayang ‘yung araw. Imbes na sumasayaw ka, nandoon ka sa bahay at nagpapahinga. ‘Yun ang pinakamahirap kasi katawan mo talaga ‘yan.

I have injured my knee before. When I’m very tired, it would really feel painful. It’s very difficult because you want to dance but you can feel that something is not right and you really need to stop and rest. It feels like the day is wasted. Instead of dancing, you’re at home and resting. That’s really the most difficult thing because that’s your body on the line.

Top photo by Mark Sumaylo