Márton Balog is a sixth-grade student at the Hungarian Dance University, whom his teachers have considered talented from a young age. Of course, it should immediately be added, true in every field of life and here as well, that talent alone is not enough; it only counts when combined with hard work and, as “Marci” shows, with a positive spirit. Over the past years, he has always approached his work with a broad smile, and his case is an excellent example of why boys should consider pursuing the art of ballet.
In recent years, Márton Balog has received many significant awards, won competitions, achieved high placements, and performed at important events, yet he is still at the beginning of his journey. However, it is indeed a major accomplishment that he has now been selected among the top 20 ballet dancers of his age group and will take part in the Prix de Lausanne, perhaps the most prestigious ballet competition in the world.
Photos by Adrienne Horváth
What led him to this point can be read in the joint interview, but there is another aspect that hasn’t been mentioned here: his attitude, his habits, his approach, whatever term you prefer. What do we mean by this, and why is Marci where he is relative to his talent?
On the second day of the Budapest Ballet Grand Prix, an interview was conducted with Marci. We asked him if he enjoyed the performance.
“I believe that everyone here can be proud of themselves, because it is the journey they have taken so far that truly matters. Everyone was well prepared, so they can all feel proud of what they have accomplished.”
Perhaps his answer also shows what a positive attitude and humility in the best sense of the word really mean. For this reason, another question was asked, one that could be important for anyone considering making dance, or the art of dance, a part of their life: Does he feel pressure from expectations, and does he enjoy what he does?
“Obviously, the achievements I have reached so far put some pressure on me, because I need to perform well and prove that I am good. However, the most important thing is to enjoy it all, and we must not let expectations create too much pressure or burden. Only positively!”
The full interview can be viewed here.
We wish Márton Balog and everyone else much success who, as a boy, embarks on this incredibly beautiful and exciting profession, a true passion that combines art and sport at the highest level.
