Miyako Yoshida was a principal at the Royal Ballet and is now Artistic Director of the National Ballet of Japan.
The best advice I ever received
Among all the advice I’ve received over the years, the one that left the deepest impression came from a woman who simply told me, ‘just dance for your mom.’ Those words carried a meaning that went beyond the stage. She explained that, as a mother, watching her child stand on stage was a source of immense happiness, something pure and unconditional.
Her advice resonated with me even more profoundly because of her personal story. She had tragically lost her daughter in an accident, a daughter who happened to be the same age as me. Knowing this, her words took on an even deeper meaning – they weren’t just advice, but a reflection of her life itself, and a reminder of the love and pride that parents feel simply by witnessing their children shine.
When I stood on stage, when I felt crushed by the pressure of the performance, I found myself clinging to her words. I remembered what she told me and imagined that my own mother was watching me from the audience. This simple act of imagining her presence brought me a sense of peace and comfort. It reminded me of why I dance – not just for perfection or applause, but for the pure joy and love that it brings to myself and others.
The advice I would pass on
I hope that dancers can truly enjoy their time on stage. Despite the struggles and challenges they face during their preparation, when the day finally comes I want them to let go of those burdens and embrace the pure joy of performing.
In particular, I want to offer this advice to the dancers of the New National Theatre Japan, who have the remarkable opportunity to perform Giselle at the Royal Opera House in London this July – a dream stage for any dancer. Right now, they are navigating the intense pressure and demands of preparing for such an extraordinary performance. However, when the curtain rises, my greatest wish for them is to let themselves dance freely and wholeheartedly.
The time in a dancer’s life to express themselves on stage is incredibly precious and fleeting. The chance to stand in the spotlight is a gift, and not fully savouring this privilege would be such a loss. I hope they give everything they have and cherish every moment, as these experiences will become unforgettable memories that shape their journey as artists.
WATCH
National Ballet of Japan rehearse Giselle.
