The story of Wanting Zhao is one of dedication, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of artistry. It is a journey that began in the bustling metropolis of Beijing, China, and took me across continents, culminating in the hallowed halls of the Royal Ballet, London. Born into a family deeply passionate about the arts, my first brush with ballet was at the tender age of five. The delicate steps, the graceful movements, the stories woven through dance, it was all captivatingly beautiful. Little did I know then that ballet would become my life's work, an obsession that consumed me, a flame that continues to burn brighter with each passing year.
Growing up in Beijing, life was a whirlwind of lessons and rehearsals. Every day, my world was punctuated by the soft tap of pointe shoes on the studio floor, the steady rhythm of piano accompaniment, and the demanding instructions of my teachers. It was an environment where discipline was ingrained in every fibre of our being. We learned the importance of precision, dedication, and respect for the art form. The ballet school was more than just a training ground; it was a family, a community united by our love for dance. In this nurturing environment, my talent blossomed under the guidance of esteemed mentors, their passion inspiring me to reach for higher heights, to refine my technique and broaden my artistry.
My early years were a period of intense training, shaping my body into the instrument it would become. The discipline was arduous, the practice endless. Hours were spent stretching, strengthening, and mastering the technical complexities of ballet. There were moments of frustration, of self-doubt, but there was always the unyielding desire to push forward, to perfect my craft. Each day, I found myself striving to achieve perfection, a goal I knew would always remain just beyond reach, forever motivating me to better myself.
In 2010, at the age of 16, I took a pivotal step. I left my family and my familiar world behind, embarking on a new chapter in my life. I was selected to join the Royal Ballet School in London, an institution renowned for its rigorous training and its commitment to nurturing exceptional talent. The transition was challenging, leaving behind everything I had known, venturing into a foreign land with its unfamiliar language, customs, and lifestyle. Yet, it was an exhilarating experience, an opportunity to learn from some of the most respected teachers in the world. The curriculum at the Royal Ballet School was designed to challenge me intellectually and physically, pushing me to my limits and encouraging me to explore the nuances of the art form. Each step, each leap, each pirouette was an opportunity to delve deeper into the world of ballet, to discover new ways of expressing myself through movement.
It was at the Royal Ballet School where I first truly understood the power of storytelling in ballet. We studied the great classics, immersing ourselves in the emotions and narratives behind each performance. From the fiery passion of Giselle to the haunting tragedy of Swan Lake, each ballet unfolded as a narrative on stage, offering me an opportunity to embody different characters and emotions. The discipline, the technique, the physicality were all important, but they were tools to be used to tell stories, to evoke emotions in the audience.
During my time at the Royal Ballet School, I was fortunate to be part of productions both big and small, honing my skills and gaining invaluable stage experience. Each performance, no matter how large or small, was a learning experience. The exhilaration of standing under the spotlight, the thrill of connecting with the audience, the joy of expressing myself through dance - these were the things that made all the sacrifices worthwhile. It was a constant learning process, a never-ending quest for perfection, and I knew that my journey was just beginning.
Graduation from the Royal Ballet School in 2015 marked a new chapter. I was offered a contract with the Royal Ballet, the culmination of years of dedication, a dream fulfilled. Joining the company was a surreal experience. I was surrounded by world-renowned dancers, each a master of their craft, their every movement a testament to the dedication and discipline of the art form. It was an honour and a privilege to be a part of this esteemed company, an opportunity to learn from the best and contribute to the rich heritage of ballet.
Stepping onto the stage of the Royal Opera House was like entering a different realm, the air electric with anticipation. The grandeur of the theatre, the energy of the audience, it was all intoxicating. But there was also a sense of responsibility, an understanding that each performance was a privilege, an opportunity to share the magic of ballet with the world.
Here are some of my favourite roles that I've performed in my career:
- The role of "The Sugar Plum Fairy" in "The Nutcracker" allowed me to tap into my playful, whimsical side. I loved bringing joy and wonder to the children in the audience. The technical demands of this role were incredibly challenging, particularly the famous "Waltz of the Flowers," but the feeling of bringing the story to life on stage was worth all the hard work.
- Playing the role of "Aurora" in "Sleeping Beauty" was a profound experience. The intricate choreography and demanding technical skill required an immense level of focus and stamina. This role challenged me both physically and emotionally, and it allowed me to express the vulnerability and resilience of Aurora, a true symbol of beauty and strength.
- "Swan Lake" holds a special place in my heart. To embody the duality of Odette, the innocent and graceful white swan, and Odile, the seductive and manipulative black swan, is an incredible feat. The emotional range required in this role, from despair to betrayal, was a challenge I relished. I was drawn to the story's exploration of good versus evil, the clash of innocence and darkness. And, of course, the famous "Black Swan" pas de deux is a technical masterpiece, demanding power and precision in equal measure.
While I deeply cherish each performance, the memories of these roles are particularly poignant. They mark not only my growth as a dancer, but also my understanding of the storytelling power of ballet. The costumes, the set design, the music, and, of course, the dancers themselves, all come together to create a mesmerizing experience for the audience. And this is what drives me, what keeps me striving for excellence, the knowledge that through dance, I can share my passion and create a lasting impression on those watching. I am grateful for the opportunities to learn, to grow, and to inspire.
The life of a ballerina is demanding, requiring immense physical discipline and unwavering commitment. It's not without its sacrifices; the long hours of rehearsals, the constant travel, the intense physicality - these are the price one pays to pursue a dream. But for me, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. I find immense satisfaction in mastering my craft, in telling stories through movement, in expressing emotions without words, and in bringing joy to audiences. The joy of sharing my love for dance is truly what fuels me, what makes all the effort worth it.
However, the journey isn't solely about mastering steps and leaping across the stage. It's about embracing the nuances of the art form, delving into the psychology behind the characters, and connecting with the audience on a deeply emotional level. Ballet has the power to touch hearts, to move souls, and to create shared experiences that transcend language and cultural boundaries. This is what truly inspires me, the potential for dance to uplift, to heal, and to create a lasting impact. The human experience, with all its complexities and contradictions, is what makes ballet so fascinating.
Alongside my stage career, I'm also passionate about sharing my knowledge and encouraging the next generation of dancers. I have been fortunate to be involved with mentoring programs and workshops, sharing the techniques and artistry that have helped shape me as a dancer. The prospect of passing on the legacy of ballet, of nurturing new talent, fills me with a profound sense of satisfaction. It's a chance to contribute to the continued growth and evolution of this incredible art form, ensuring its continued presence in the world.
In a world where so much of life feels temporary and fleeting, ballet offers a timeless form of expression, a reminder of beauty and artistry. It is a pursuit that transcends generations, an enduring art form that will continue to inspire and captivate for years to come. As a dancer, I'm humbled by the legacy I'm carrying, by the generations of artists who came before me, paving the way for me to explore the wonders of this art form. I hope to continue the legacy, to contribute to the evolving world of ballet, and to inspire others to embrace the joy of movement and storytelling.
Looking back on my journey, I see a testament to the power of dedication and hard work. From the disciplined years of training to the exhilarating world of professional ballet, each step has been a journey of discovery and self-discovery. And while my life as a ballerina continues to evolve, my passion for this art form, for the magic of movement and storytelling, remains unyielding. It is this passion that fuels my dedication, pushing me to refine my craft, to express myself authentically, and to continue sharing the captivating beauty of ballet with the world.