In Their Own Words: John Sixto Dones on the value of a supportive family
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.
Gustong-gusto ni Papa na nag-ba-ballet ako, kaya naman tuwing na-da-down ako – lalo na tuwing nagsasabay ang school at ballet – humuhugot na lang ako ng lakas kay Papa. Grabe talaga ang suporta niya sa akin sa simula pa lang.
Tuwing may competition po ako, nagsisimba po kaming lahat para ipagdasal ang safety ko po. Sobrang nararamdaman ko po ang support nila at ang pag-e-enjoy nila tuwing napapanood ako.
Papa likes it so much that I’m into ballet, so whenever I feel down – especially when school and ballet are hard to balance – I draw strength from him. His support for me from the start has been immense.
Whenever I have a competition, we go to church so we could all pray for my safety. I really feel my family’s support and their enjoyment whenever they watch me on stage.
Top photo: Ballet Manila apprentice John Sixto Dones takes class at the 2025 Dance Open America Taiwan Regionals.
John Sixto Dones performs in The Nutcracker: Clara’s Journey, the year-end student showcase of the Lisa Macuja School of Ballet in 2023. Photo by Giselle P. Kasilag
