By Laura Di Orio of Dance Informa.
What would you do if you could go back in time? Would you choose something different for breakfast? Would you set aside a few minutes for meditation before a performance? Or would you go back and tell your younger self some sage advice in the hopes of bettering their experience and journey to a successful dance career?
We spoke with three professional dancers and Só Dança ambassadors, Joseph Gatti, Sasha De Sola and Jonathan Batista, about what they’d tell their teenage self if they had the chance. They also share some qualities that they think have helped them succeed in their dance career. Read on to find out more!
Five things I’d tell my teenage self
#1. “Eat healthier.” – Joseph Gatti, international principal guest artist and artistic director/founder of United Ballet Theatre and Academy (Orlando, FL)
#2. “This career is a gift. Don’t take even one moment for granted, through the good times and through the difficult times. It will push you to grow, it will give you solace, inspiration, and strength.” – Sasha De Sola, principal dancer with San Francisco Ballet
#3. “Make sure to be yourself, allow yourself to make mistakes, fail and improve from there, take your time and be open to welcome new possibilities.” – Jonathan Batista, soloist with Pacific Northwest Ballet
#4. “Roll out more after the day of work.” – Joseph Gatti
#5. “Discipline is key, and time will guide you to where you want or need to be. Meanwhile, enjoy the process. You’ll find beautiful moments to be grateful for, especially during challenging times.” – Jonathan Batista
What are three to five words or qualities that you think have helped you succeed so far in your dance career?
Jonathan Batista
“Gratitude, ‘You can do this,’ deep breath, ‘Thank you,’ and inspiration.”
What are some of your favorite Só Dança products that you wish you had as a young dancer growing up?
Batista
“I am a huge fan of Só Dança’s products, and these are the products I wish I has as a young dancer growing up: my skin tone (Mocha) SD16 Stretch Canvas Ballet Shoes (my number one item!), the Harry Backpack (I love how many pockets it comes with!), Jacob Tights (The comfortability and texture is just unbelievably great.) and the Men’s Tank Top (These are great for rehearsals, they are comfortable and fit like a perfect pair of gloves!).”“I am a huge fan of Só Dança’s products, and these are the products I wish I has as a young dancer growing up: my skin tone (Mocha) SD16 Stretch Canvas Ballet Shoes (my number one item!), the Harry Backpack (I love how many pockets it comes with!), Jacob Tights (The comfortability and texture is just unbelievably great.) and the Men’s Tank Top (These are great for rehearsals, they are comfortable and fit like a perfect pair of gloves!).”
By Laura Di Orio of Dance Informa.