No matter who you are or where you come from, there will always be extraordinary talents around you – people who might make you question whether you have what it takes to achieve greatness. Do you dare to step out of your comfort zone, to push beyond your fears?
Pham Thuy Duong (9 Praha) boldly declared, “I dare.” Initially hesitant to participate in D-Show 25, fearing she would be outshined by more talented contestants, she found the courage to compete thanks to the encouragement of her teachers and her own determination to overcome self-doubt. In the end, she proved that “nothing is impossible” by claiming the Champion (individual category) title at the Ocean Park D-Show 25 Finals.
From high-energy dance to an emotionally stirring performance
Having impressed the judges in the preliminary round with a dynamic K-pop dance cover, many expected Thuy Duong to stay within her comfort zone for the finals. However, she defied expectations by breaking free from her shell and embracing a completely new challenge—a deeply expressive modern dance performance. This bold transformation was a deliberate choice, as she sought to showcase her creativity and passion for the art of performance.
Thuy Duong shared, “Reaching the Finals made me think more deeply about how to showcase my talent, express my personal mark, and at the same time, incorporate this year’s D-Show theme – “The Future Me.” My performance came entirely from my own desire to express gratitude to my mother for her hard work and unwavering support since I was little, and to share my own dreams for the future.”
Refusing to be defined by any limits
“I used to believe that dance was my style and my strength, but at D-Show 25, I didn’t want to limit myself. The process of choreographing and refining my modern dance performance was not without challenges. However, with the guidance and encouragement of Mr. Phuong Nam and Ms. Hien, I found the confidence to craft a deeply personal and expressive performance. They were always there for me, offering valuable advice that helped shape a piece filled with emotion and individuality.”
Known for her perfectionist nature, Thuy Duong’s perseverance at D-Show 25 earned admiration from many. As an academically outstanding student, she prioritizes balancing her studies with her passion for the arts. “Every day, after finishing my schoolwork, I would head to the practice room for self-training. I’d return home at 8 PM, have dinner, and then spend two more hours studying and preparing for the next school day. Even when I fell ill with tonsillitis before the Finals, I remained determined to take the stage. I believed my performance carried a special meaning – not just for my mother, but also for myself.” Looking back on her D-Show journey, Thuy Duong shared.
With the meaningful theme of D-Show 25: The Future Me, Thuy Duong shared an inspiring message for herself and all young people: “Always live fully with your passion, stay determined, and when faced with difficulties, find a way to overcome them – never give up.” This serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of perseverance and self-belief, not only in the arts but in every journey life presents.
At just 15 years old, D-Show 25 has been a journey of challenges, lessons, and achievements for Thuy Duong. But more importantly, it has been a turning point that gave her the courage to believe in her own abilities. Wishing Thuy Duong continued success, may she always shine bright, embrace her youth and passion, and take each step forward toward becoming the best version of herself.
————————-
Stay updated on D-Show 25 here: https://bit.ly/D-show.
