I'm thought of as a cool, unemotional dancer, but inside I'm not.

In this quote, Suzanne Farrell reveals a contrast between her public persona as a cool, unemotional dancer and her inner emotional experience. While she is often seen as composed and controlled in her performances, she suggests that this outward appearance does not reflect her true emotional state. This statement highlights the complexity of being an artist, where the surface presentation may not always align with the inner reality.

Farrell's comment also touches on the idea of the performer's struggle to balance personal emotions with the demands of the profession. In the world of ballet and dance, dancers are often expected to maintain a certain level of grace and detachment in their movements. Farrell's words suggest that, despite this expectation, she feels deeply and is not as emotionally distant as she may appear on stage. It speaks to the vulnerability and emotional depth that often goes unnoticed in a dancer's art.

The origin of this quote can be linked to Suzanne Farrell's career as one of the most renowned and influential ballerinas of the 20th century. Known for her collaborations with choreographer George Balanchine and her exceptional performances with the New York City Ballet, Farrell was admired for her technical precision and emotional depth. Her statement reflects the often-overlooked emotional intensity that drives her artistry, revealing the inner turmoil or passion that informs her performances.