In Their Own Words: Ainslea Esplana on setting her own pace
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.
One important thing I’ve learned in ballet is to keep working hard at your own pace. Try not to compare with anyone else. It gets really hard in ballet because there’s so many people around you doing the same thing, and trying for the same roles. Keep at your own pace and improve yourself. Keep going and it will get better.
Top photo:
Ballet Manila apprentice Ainslea Esplana already knew she wanted to make dance her career when she was nine. Photo from Ainslea Esplana’s Instagram account
Ainslea Esplana (rightmost) dances as one of the wilis, the spirits of girls wronged by their partners, in Giselle (2024). Photo by Giselle P. Kasilag
