lilithespark's manga / #ballet(7)

Salad Days (Tang LiuZang) Webtoon

Complete | Jing shuibian,Tang liuzang | 2019 released

Review: I came for the romance, but actually found myself enjoying the other story aspects as well. Reading this gave me more insight about ballet and boxing that I found so interesting. The male leads are lovable, and I just love their personalities. The author has a great sense of humor, and the art style is so soft. What could you not adore? Side note: Caught up to chapter 61.

Coda

Complete | ichimura hitoshi | 2010 released

Dance Dance Danseur

Ongoing | Asakura George | 2000 released

Indulged in Your Light

Complete | yu chi jin ze | 2019 released

Act Out!

Complete | Joe fuyufusa | 2022 released

This was short, yet very good read! The MC’s beautiful figure skating was definitely the highlight of this manga. Other than that, this was a special experience in that the story briefly touched on mental health. Definitely reminded me of Yuri on Ice with the whole Russian instructor deuteragonist lmao. I liked the development me of their relationship even if it wasn’t romantic. Vasil’s ballet history was a nice touch. Both ballet and figure skating tend to be visually appealing sports. Loved the art and the general message of the story. “Finding yourself.” Just wish this was longer.

Kenrantaru Grande Scène

Ongoing | Cuvie | 2000 released

This is one of the best, if not the best, manga about ballet I’ve ever read. I regret not reading this sooner because I was put off by that romance tag… The MC’s actually extremely career driven and works hard to her dreams!! Not so much romance (as of yet). Inspiring story. I love her fiery, headstrong character and her generally bright approach to problems. I find that a majority of the side characters’ backstories are very compelling. They don’t feel one dimensional at all as they all march toward their respective paths. It’s honestly kind of rare to find female characters that are written so independently. The art is so easy on the eyes that I think it does a seriously great job at expressing the beauty of ballet. It also stands its ground as an exciting sports manga. Can’t wait for more chapters!!

Houkago no Etude

Ongoing | HIRUNE Cyan | 2020 released

This manga is so freaking good… The leads are so cute together; I love their dynamic sm. The height difference? The flirting?? Gimme more pls!! The ballet aspect is really well done (the art is so *beautiful*). Almost reminds me of some sports dancing manga like ‘Welcome to the Ballroom’ and ‘Ten Dance.’ I wish hell upon the freaking p3dophile teacher guy. I hope the author addresses the grooming properly because that’s a black stain on a manga I otherwise really like. Anyway, I love the leads’ passion for dancing and the themes of youth/growth/chasing after your goal.