From Pego to Luxembourg: the young promise of contemporary dance on the way to the international

Chase a dream. It sounds easy, but many dreams are achieved through effort and dedication. And that is what Toni Ferrando tries to achieve every day. That almost without rest, and without weighing him down a bit, he trains tenaciously to become a complete dance professional.

The young dancer with the Montgó in the background

He is from Pego, he is 14 years old and from a very young age he already showed his passion for dancing. In an effort to channel his nerves and potential he began Aikido, a Japanese martial art, at age two. However, he took advantage of any moment to enthrall the audience with his improvised dance steps.

Luckily, and with the encouragement of an observant school teacher, he left the discipline to dedicate his free time to what he loves most. His parents saw in Mayte Ortolá's Babylon dance academy a great opportunity for him. For this reason, for approximately four years he has perfected his art together with his classmates and with the help of his teachers Nico, Celaida and Claudia.

The dancer during one of the phases of the competition

Focused on ballet and contemporary dance, he has made great strides until he was classified as the Spanish champion of contemporary style dance in category 2 advanced amateur of the National Dance Competition recently held in Tarragona. And with honors, since the jury unanimously awarded him the first prize.

Although not only that. With his art he came to move the members of the court in such a way that they gave him the greatest recognition of the competition. He now faces the next call, the contemporary dance world championship in Luxembourg, with a lot of positivism, "prepared and eager", says the dancer.

Toni Ferrando during the interview

When talking about his passion, his eyes light up and a smile appears, just like the rest of his family when listening to him. “Contemporary style is more relaxing. What I like most about this dance is that it makes me feel free. Being able to move around the space achieves that effect.”

Toni Ferrando, first prize in Spain for contemporary style dance in category 2 advanced amateur

Perhaps talking about the future is too far away. She still has two years to go before she finishes her training at Babylon, but her true dream has always been to train at the Royal Ballet School in London. Once she finished ESO at the Sant Antoni de Pego school, her parents agree that completing a Baccalaureate in Performing Arts, Music and Dance could be a good option.

“Dance supposes an evolution”, and this evolution implies going over levels until reaching the desired one. For this reason, Toni intends to take the path that allows her to study a university degree and be able to combine it with higher dance studies.

Toni during the photo session

There is no doubt that Toni is an example of courage, work and passion. His commitment, combined with the unconditional support and listening of his parents, forms the perfect basis for the young dancer to conquer the World Cup at the end of the year. And, who knows, the streets of London may very soon welcome him too, dancing.

Tony on stage