In Their Own Words: Marinette Franco on finding courage to try something new
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 was scared to do things because of judgement – people talking about certain things. But then, they don’t really care! As long as you’re trying to work, you’re not a bad dancer. If you need help, they’re going to help you. So that’s when I also started thinking. Ah! Ako lang ‘yung nag-iisip na I look bad (I’m the only one thinking that I look bad). It’s just me who thinks that I can’t do it. So I’m stopping myself from exploring more. So doon din nag-change a little bit ‘yung mindset ko na if hindi ko siya gagawin, walang mangyayari sa akin. Wala tayong mapupuntahan (So that’s where my mindset changed a little bit, that if I don’t do it, nothing will happen to me. I won’t get anywhere)!
Top photo by MarBi Photography
Marinette Franco performs in Tala, Ballet Manila’s Christmas show at Star City in 2022. Photo by Giselle P. Kasilag
