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.

Every little thing attracts me about dance. As a dancer, kita ko ’yung big picture – lahat ng nangyayari on and off stage. Sa rehearsals, na-e-enjoy ko kapag nagko-correct sila ng little details and how specific ballet is. Ang galing na nakikita ’yun ng teachers. Fulfilling ’yung ang tagal niyong ni-rehearse tapos once na mag-perform, ’yun na ’yun. But that moment on stage, hindi ko ma-explain pero ang laking achievement. Ang fulfilling niya lalo na pag na-enjoy at ramdam sa audience.

Every little thing attracts me about dance. As a dancer, I see the big picture – everything that happens on and off stage. During rehearsals, I enjoy it when they correct little details and how specific ballet is. It’s amazing that the teachers can spot everything. It’s very fulfilling to rehearse something for so long then once you perform it, that’s it. But that moment on stage, I can’t explain it but it’s a huge achievement. And it’s fulfilling especially when it is enjoyed and felt by the audience.

Top photo: Ballet Manila company artist Shamira Drapete finds joy in expressing herself through dancing. Photo from Shamira Drapete’s Instagram page