For many, dance is an art form; for others, it is an escape. For Catherine Gallardo Gallano, it is her life’s work—a pursuit that has carried her across borders, shaped her identity, and opened doors to opportunities she never imagined when she first discovered her love for movement as a young girl in the Philippines.

Now known in Dubai’s entertainment scene as Cathy G., she is the Entertainment Manager, Creative Director, and Artist/Choreographer at Club 7 in Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel. With over 11 years abroad, she has built a career that reflects passion, resilience, and an unwavering drive to share her artistry with the world.

From television dancer to creative director

Catherine’s story began in her school years, when a classmate introduced her to Sir John Fontanilla, choreographer for the children’s variety show Pen Pen de Sarapen. This chance encounter opened a path that would define her future. By her teenage years, she was already dancing on television, guided by her mentor Tita Ana Feliciano, a house choreographer at ABS-CBN.

Her dedication quickly caught the attention of big names in Philippine entertainment. She recalls being recognized by Kuya Willie Revillame during her Wowowee days and earning the respect of director Johnny Manahan, whom the industry fondly calls “Daddy.” “Those moments shaped not only my career but also the way I see myself as an artist,” she shares with TGFM.

Her resume is filled with milestones: dancer in MTB (1999–2002), Wowowee (2003–2008), choreographer for Wowowee in 2008, house choreographer for Pilipinas Win na Win in 2010, and later Happy Yipee Yehey in 2011. She also contributed her talent to ASAP, The Voice of the Philippines, and X Factor Philippines.

Beyond television, Catherine became a sought-after choreographer in the corporate world, working with global brands like Jollibee, Toyota, Rejoice, Sunsilk, Ariel, FHM, Resorts World Philippines, and Security Bank. These opportunities not only expanded her artistic reach but also deepened her understanding of how dance could bridge entertainment and branding.

In 2013, she decided to take her craft to the global stage. Moving to Dubai was not just a career decision but also a leap of faith. “Living abroad is undoubtedly challenging, but I chose to pursue my career overseas because I saw it as a great opportunity to experience a new culture, meet people from different backgrounds, and grow both personally and professionally,” she explains.

That leap led her to Club 7, where she now manages entertainment, directs shows, and choreographs performances. She also founded the Club 7 Superstars, a group of talented artists who have become her second family.

Building a career with passion and persistence

For Catherine, work is more than a profession; it is her soul expressed through movement. “What I appreciate most about my work as an artist, dancer, choreographer, and director is the opportunity to transform my passion into a profession,” she says. “It provides me with a sense of fulfillment and allows me to express my inner thoughts, ideas, and values through the art of dance.”

This passion translates into long hours of rehearsals and preparation, a commitment that she shares with her Superstars family. For her, the most rewarding part is not just the applause but the connection with audiences. “One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is witnessing the genuine excitement, applause, enjoyment, and appreciation from audiences. Their responses serve as validation of the dedication and effort we invest in every performance,” she adds.

The life she built abroad also allowed her to embrace new cultures and traditions that enrich her artistry. She values learning new languages and immersing herself in experiences that influence her storytelling through dance. “It’s a beautiful journey where passion meets purpose, turning my love for dance into a fulfilling career and allowing me to tell stories through movement while doing what I love most: dancing,” she reflects.

But the road wasn’t without struggles. Homesickness and loneliness tested her resilience in her early years in Dubai. What kept her going was finding a strong support system. She credits her boss, Kassem, the owner of Club 7, for being a source of encouragement. “He once told me something I’ll never forget: ‘You’re like family to me.’ I’m truly grateful for the opportunity he gave me. To learn, to grow, and to become better,” she says.

That guidance and support helped her establish herself in Dubai’s entertainment industry, where she continues to thrive not only as a performer but also as a mentor and leader.

Looking ahead and giving back

Catherine knows that dance will always be a part of her life, whether she is on stage or behind it. “Ten to twenty years from now, you might not see me dancing on screen or on stage. I know I won’t be able to dance forever, and I fully accept that. But what I cannot imagine is a life without being connected to dance,” she admits.

Her vision for the future is to continue teaching and mentoring young dancers, ensuring that the next generation has the tools, inspiration, and guidance they need to succeed. “Even if I am no longer performing, I will continue teaching and sharing my talents with aspiring artists, guiding them to discover their own passion and helping them unlock their potential,” she says.

To her fellow artists and kababayans abroad, her advice is simple but powerful: “Keep creating, keep dreaming, and never lose sight of why you started. There may be struggles along the way, but let every setback fuel your growth. Keep showing up and trust that every step forward, no matter how small, is progress.”

She also emphasizes the importance of community. “Always remember to lift others as you rise. Success is sweeter and more meaningful when shared. Surround yourself with people who support and uplift you on your journey. We may be far from home, but we’re never alone.”

Catherine never forgets to recognize her Superstars and Club 7 family, whom she considers instrumental in her journey. She names Leonila Mae A. Lola, Regina Lyzah C. Dizon, Blessie Joy S. Tejano, Krizzia Alexa L. De Lumban, Shaine Mei Lee S. Arduo, Cheryz Grace M. Feliciano, Jorge Kheil U. Azucena, May-Anne B. Dialogo, and Frances Nichole E. Parreño as part of her support circle. “I would not be where I am without their support. Respect begets respect. They continue to learn from me, just as I continue to learn from the next generation of dancers,” she says.

Her mantra in life encapsulates the journey she has lived: “If you work hard and never stop trying, you’ll be amazed at how far you can go. When you pursue your passion with purpose and persistence, life has a way of leading you to exactly where you’re meant to be.”