A Passion Ignited by Art

For many, the arts are a vital lifeline, and that was certainly the case for me. Watching the film Center Stage transformed my childhood curiosity into a fervent passion for ballet. Although I began dancing at the age of nine, it wasn’t until I witnessed the beauty and battles of ballet on screen that I truly understood my desire to pursue this art form. The camaraderie and competition presented by American Ballet Theatre stars sparked a fire in me that I believe many millennials can relate to.

Struggles in Pursuit of Grace

Enrolling in a pre-professional summer intensive at Universal Ballet in Korea introduced me to an unforgiving world. Surrounded by talented dancers, I immediately became aware of my limitations; being the worst dancer in the program was a harsh reality to face. Yet, it was through struggling against physical exhaustion and emotional pain that I learned resilience and perseverance. Despite the banishment to the back of the class and discomfort in ill-fitting shoes, my spirit soared as I embraced an unyielding desire to dance.

From Dance to Self-Discovery

Upon arriving at Princeton, my journey took an unexpected turn. Modern dance and choreography allowed me the freedom to express emotion without the strict confines of ballet technique. This path enabled me to recognize dance as a storytelling medium—a way to translate internal feelings into captivating movement. My solo performance, infused with personal heartache, resonated with the audience, highlighting the unique energy that art can release.

Years later, as I shifted my focus towards writing, I realized that the expressive outlet of dance had laid the groundwork for my storytelling ability. Now, with the upcoming release of City of Night Birds by Juhea Kim, I celebrate the intertwining of these two art forms—each serving as a profound exploration of identity and artistry.