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