Inside the Prix, by Anaya Bobst – Selections

How has the week gone by so fast? I wish that time could stop for a minute so that I could digest all the interesting and amazing things that have been happening. But, of course time moves on whether we like it or not, and it is already Thursday, the day of selections.

After watching parts of the performances in the theatre, I got a clear sense of the candidate`s excitement and high expectations of themselves. After 4 days of classes and coaching I can only imagine the feeling to finally being able to perform what they have been practicing for so long.

This made me think of the rewarding aspects of dance that Loipa Araujo (Associated Artistic Director of the English National Ballet) and Sue Jin Kang (Artistic Director of the Korean National Ballet and jury member this year) discussed in the Daily Dance Dialogue on Wednesday, led by editor-and-chief of Pointe Magazine, Amy Brandt.

Loipa Araujo explained how one of the most rewarding parts of dance as an observer is “when a performance speaks to you”.

When the artistry of the movements touches you, it makes you believe in life, beauty, and energy, she continued.

Sue Jin Kang also talked about the feeling of when she sees a satisfying performance. Since it is the result of all that you have been working for it has such an important value. She also said that one has to be a bit crazy to be able to use creativity, bring artists together, and to practice this art form, which funny enough is very true.

Because we work hard and rehearse for so long as dancers, we tend to expect many things to happen once we are on stage. Even though I completely agree, I also wanted to share some thoughts with the candidates:

Naturally, you will strive to be your best possible self in your performance. However, if that does not happen, I believe that it is important to accept and appreciate what you were able to share today. It is challenging to be satisfied since we can always improve in this field, but there comes a point when you have to be able to truly support and be kind to yourself, just as you would with a friend. In addition to understanding what you need to do better next time, motivate and encourage yourself so that you can continue to move forward in the best possible way. No matter if you were satisfied with your performance or not, be proud of your contribution today. See the great accomplishment of just being selected to be seen at such an established and vibrant competition like this, not just if you are singled out as one of the winners. Merde to all!