The Cuban dancer @danielarittoles24 shared a new testimony on TikTok, this time about her first professional experience outside of Cuba, revealing that her debut was not on a traditional stage.
“That's how my first contract outside of Cuba was, and no, it wasn't in a theater; it was on a cruise. What I experienced there completely changed my perspective on dance, how I face challenges, and how I enjoy life in ways I never imagined. I am Daniela, a Cuban dancer, and this was my first professional experience outside of Cuba,” she explained.
In her story, Daniela shared what it's like to work on a cruise ship, and how that environment shaped her personal and artistic growth: “Dancing on a cruise is like living in a floating city, every night you have different shows for audiences from all over the world, and each day presents a new challenge. I met incredible people, we shared unique moments, celebrated parties at sea, and I learned to adapt to any situation while enjoying dance on unique stages.”
The video sparked a wave of positive reactions. One user commented, “Cubans who truly represent,” to which Daniela replied, “Oh, how beautiful.”
Another testimony that caught attention was from a user who commented: “Mine was in England and after 4 years here I still am.” Daniela replied: “England must be beautiful, it’s on my list to visit haha.”
Supportive messages poured in: "Wishing you much success, beautiful. I hope you continue to achieve your dreams," she received as a comment, and she replied, "Thank you, lovely. Wishing you much success as well." Others wrote: "Great opportunity, keep taking advantage of it," "Oh my love, for God's sake, how beautiful," and simply: "Beautiful," "We're on a contract in Turkey," or "Congratulations."
This new testimony adds to others shared by the same dancer, who currently resides in Germany. In a previous post, Daniela reflected on how she has managed to make a living from art abroad, despite the comments she received in Cuba, where people told her that dance was just a hobby with no professional future.
"I left Cuba and now I live off of what I studied. When I was in Cuba, many people said that dancing was just a hobby, that outside it wouldn't be a real job because it paid very poorly. Now I live in Germany and I’m still a dancer; what for many in Cuba was just a pastime has helped me open doors to discover other countries, work, and grow," she stated at that moment.
Since her arrival in Germany, the dancer has also shared details about her day-to-day life, including the cost of living in the European country as an artist, her adaptation to the labor system, and the importance of staying active in her vocation.
Stories like Daniela's reflect the journey of many young Cubans who, despite the challenges, find ways to develop professionally abroad.
Frequently asked questions about Daniela Rittoles' experience as a Cuban dancer abroad
What was Daniela Rittoles' first professional experience outside of Cuba?
Daniela Rittoles' first professional experience outside of Cuba was on a cruise. There, the Cuban dancer faced unique challenges and enjoyed dance in unconventional settings, which changed her perspective on her artistic career.
What has life been like for Daniela Rittoles as an artist in Germany?
Daniela Rittoles lives in Germany working as a professional dancer. Despite perceptions in Cuba regarding the lack of job stability in the arts, Daniela has managed to live off her passion and has adapted to the German labor system while maintaining her artistic vocation.
What challenges do Cuban artists face when emigrating abroad?
Cuban artists face challenges such as adapting to different work systems and seeking professional recognition. In the case of Daniela Rittoles, she has had to prove that art can be a legitimate and sustainable profession, something that is often questioned in Cuba.
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