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.

I learned that I can do more than just ballet. I can do modern! I can do contemporary! I learned that nothing is going to happen if you stay inside your comfort zone. You go out of the box. You try something new. You explore. You’ll surprise yourself. Ay, kaya ko pala ’yun (Oh, I can do that)! And then you see the results and it’s so nice, that feeling that I did that! I achieved that! I grew braver!

Top photo: Ballet Manila soloist Rissa May Camaclang learned to explore beyond classical dance and surprised herself. Photo by Giselle P. Kasilag