In Their Own Words: Sayaka Ishibashi on returning to Ballet Manila
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 love how Ballet Manila works for the people. They bring ballet to literally everybody. Not just the people who can afford to buy tickets. They do it for everybody. And that’s what I want to do.
When I dance with Ballet Manila, I can be myself. I could dance with my whole body and whole heart. I really like that feeling.
I love the audience and their reaction! I love the people in the Philippines. People are so warm and welcoming. I felt home when I came back here.
Top photos: Ballet Manila company artist Sayaka Ishibashi takes class in Malaysia during the group’s performance series of Cinderella last September. Photo by Larry Salgado
Sayaka performs in Ballet Manila’s most recent staging of Don Quixote in August. Photo by Giselle P. Kasilag
