Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism novel Chapter 295

Violeta would likely go for classical rather than modern dance if she decided to enter the competition.

The Lotus Award was pretty specific, offering three prizes—gold, silver, and bronze—in each dance style and the same for choreography.

Therefore, Hazel's suggestion might be seen differently by others.

And Violeta? She was pretty much the heir to Grace's forte in Ballet Spin.

"Let Vio go for classical dance; that way, she won't clash with Lucy in modern dance," someone suggests.

Violeta worried. "But there are so many talented classical dancers. You think I can handle it?"

Grace gave her a reassuring look and said, "The Lotus Award holds as much prestige here as the Plum Blossom Award does in theatre or the Golden Rooster and Hundred Blossom Awards in film. Even if you don't win, just competing is a way to grow."

Hazel chimed in, "Vio, you should definitely try."

Nydia added, "Indeed, you've spent so much time practicing your dance, initially just for auditions. Missing out on this Lotus Award would be a disappointment for us. Seeing you participate would really make up for it."

Violeta was nervous. "I'm scared I won't win and let everyone down."

Grace smiled and gently patted her shoulder. "Vio, I can't promise anything, but I know your Ballet Spin is top-notch; you've been training with me from the start. I've seen your progress."

Throwing Violeta into a modern dance face-off with Lucy would be like throwing a duck into a dance-off.

However, she stood a real chance in classical dance, where she could shine with her Ballet Spin.

"But no pressure. I won't push you into competing if it's not in your heart," Grace added.

Violeta stayed silent.

Both Hazel and Nydia were keen for her to participate, having looked forward to it for ages. Now that they could not, they felt seeing Violeta compete would be somewhat consoling.

"Vio, go for it," Hazel urged.

"Yes, do it for us," Nydia echoed, both giving Violeta hopeful looks as she pondered their words.

After a brief pause, Violeta agreed, "Alright, I'll do it. I might just be okay at dancing, but I have faith that the routine Ms. Parker crafted could win Best Choreography, right?"

Hearing this, Hazel and Nydia both beamed.

"Vio, we'll be rooting for you!"

"Yeah!"

...

After some discussions, she convinced the casting director.

He assured Zelena that if everything went well, he would put in a good word for her with the main director during their visit to Toland University for actor selections.

"The director initially wanted someone skilled in ballet. If you can't do that, he might not consider you."

Zelena was not proficient in ballet, but she was decent at modern dance, though she was not professionally trained.

Hattie suggested, "You could always use a stand-in later. I'm sure you'll figure something out, Chandler. Lena is a good friend of mine, so please try to find a workaround."

With Hannah backing her up, the casting director agreed to look for a way to accommodate them.

"Alright, given my ties to your mother and your decent qualifications, head home and await further updates. Oh, and by the way, our director has a penchant for collecting wine."

The hint was clear.

Zelena understood immediately and responded with a smile, "Got it."

As the dinner party wound down, Hattie folded her arms and told Zelena, "Don't say I never helped you. Pick up a fine bottle of wine and invite the director to another meal. With that, you're pretty much set."

Zelena smiled. "Hattie, I knew you'd look out for me!"