As told to Humans of Kuala Lumpur
I was fourteen when I knew. It wasn’t a casual thought or a fleeting idea; it was a decision—clear, deliberate, and full of hope. My family had encouraged me to explore classical music and dance from an early age, but that year, something clicked. I decided I wanted to train professionally and dedicate myself to ballet. I was fortunate enough to be accepted into a rigorous professional school, where I began full-time training.
Looking back, my first introduction to ballet feels like a dream. I remember watching performances and poring over books about this art form. It wasn’t just the beauty of the movement that captivated me; it was the life behind it—the creative process, the discipline, and the artistry of being a dancer. It was evocative in a way I couldn’t ignore.
Today, as the Artistic Director of Singapore Ballet, I’m often asked about the significance of performing timeless classics like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. To me, these ballets represent our heritage, the very foundation of what we do. They weave music, movement, and stunning visuals into a story—a kind of magic that has resonated with audiences for generations.
When we bring these performances to Kuala Lumpur, I hope the audience will capture the same spirit and joy of movement that first drew me to ballet. Of course, everyone experiences it differently, and that’s the beauty of live performance—it’s unique, shared, and deeply personal all at once.
If I had to pinpoint a defining moment in my career, it would be meeting and working with Choo-San Goh, a Singaporean choreographer. My time with him at Washington Ballet became the catalyst for much of what followed in my journey. But honestly, my career is filled with too many unforgettable moments to count—each rehearsal, each performance, holds its own special place in my heart.
Both Swan Lake and The Nutcracker are traditional ballets, and I embrace that tradition. Tchaikovsky’s music and the structure of classical ballet draw audiences into the narrative. Every performance is different, a reflection of its live nature and the collective energy of those witnessing it together.
Behind the scenes, the scale of these productions is monumental. Large casts demand extensive rehearsal, organization, and precision. But the challenges pale in comparison to the reward—the joy of performance, the magic of the art coming to life.
For those new to ballet, I’d say: don’t overthink it. Ballet is like a living picture—movement brought to life. There’s nothing to “understand” in a specific way. Just immerse yourself in the moment and let the experience move you.
As for ballet in Southeast Asia, I see it as a growing art form. The key is balance—honoring the past while encouraging the future. Performances like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker play a crucial role in this journey, bridging tradition with contemporary relevance.
Ultimately, ballet teaches us about life. It speaks to the heart’s desire for movement, emotion, and experience. It’s food for the soul.
If you’ve never experienced ballet before, I’d urge you to try. There’s no wrong way to watch or interpret it. Every performance offers something new—a reward, both emotional and intellectual. It’s a gift to yourself, a chance to witness something profoundly human.
Singapore Ballet returns to KLPAC for one weekend only to present a magnificent evening featuring excerpts from classical ballet favorites. Be enchanted by the beauty of Swan Lake and the vibrancy of Nutcracker. Perfect for ballet lovers and those looking to be introduced to ballet, this highly anticipated performance is not to be missed!
Showtimes
29 November 2024 (Fri) @ 8pm
30 November 2024 (Sat) @ 3pm (New Show)
30 November 2024 (Sat) @ 8pm
1 December 2024 (Sun) @ 2pm
Don’t miss this chance to experience two of ballet’s most iconic works in one magical performance. Tickets here https://www.klpac.org/shows/ballet-illuminations-2024/
– Humans of Kuala Lumpur
