PNB's Noelani Pantastico Writes a Letter to Her Teenage Self

April 27, 2017

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal Noelani Pantastico is famous for her passionate stage presence and strong, powerful technique. Originally from Oahu, HI, Pantastico trained at Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet and frequently attended summer courses at PNB. In 1997, she joined PNB as an apprentice, and was promoted to principal in 2004. Four years later, she joined Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo as a soloist—but, in 2015, Pantastico headed back home to PNB, and she’s danced there ever since. Catch her in the company’s June program, which features George Balanchine’s La Source, Jerome Robbins’ Opus 19 and Alexei Ratmansky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Read on for her letter!

“Dear Noe,

You’ll soon enter a career that will shape the course of your existence. Pay attention and enjoy every moment, because it goes very quickly. Life in the dance world is beautiful, although there will be times when deep reflection is necessary, and when roadblocks will make you rethink your career path. This is normal, and it’s OK. Here’s some advice that will help you get through.

Don’t complain, and ignore idle gossip. Negativity will do nothing for you. It’s wasted energy. Your mental state is connected to your physical being and immune system—being mindful can help you stay healthy. You won’t want to believe this, but the sooner you do, the sooner you’ll get better and won’t be dealing with so many ailments. When you’re dealing with pain, injury or even a common cold, consider whether you’re also going through an emotional problem or change. This is total body care.

Don’t try to control the course of things. Everything that happens is meant to happen. There’s a lesson in every moment. Just listen, observe and work hard. This will give you intelligence and power, and ultimately the ability to handle anything the world throws at you.

Lastly, give the best you can every day. Don’t waste a minute. Remember: Life responds to you and to what you put out there. It’s not about what happens to you, but about what you make of it. Be meticulous with your steps. Care for every motion. Your love and gratitude will vibrate beyond you.

I love you very much,

Noe”