Like a pearl that grows more radiant with time, Ballet Manila’s 30th anniversary celebrates three decades of grace, artistry, and excellence. Marking this milestone, the company is set to stage a spectacular lineup of productions featuring renowned ballet superstars from the U.S. and Russia, all to be held at Aliw Theater, Pasay City.
Peralta and Junmark Sumaylo; CEO and artistic director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde; principal dancers Abigail Lynn Oliveiro and Shaira May Comeros; artistic associate Gerardo Francisco Jr; and event host Mitch Valdes
The Pearl Gala: A Grand Opening to the Season
Kicking off the season is The Pearl Gala, happening on March 7, 2025, at 8 PM, and on March 8 & 9, 2025, at 5 PM. Dubbed “The Pearl Year,” this gala is a showcase of Ballet Manila’s finest and most exquisite performances, including the world premiere of “Pearls”, choreographed by Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, the company’s CEO and artistic director, alongside award-winning choreographers Martin Lawrance and Gerardo Francisco Jr.
The grand anniversary celebration was officially launched at Shangri-La Mall, which partnered with Ballet Manila to highlight the arts during National Arts Month. “This is a wonderful opportunity to emphasize our mission of bringing ballet to the people and people to ballet, as well as highlight ballet as a beautiful art form,” shared Macuja-Elizalde.
A Journey Through Dance and Time
The Pearl Gala opens with “Paquita,” a classical ballet piece that holds deep significance for Ballet Manila, as it was performed during their very first concert 30 years ago. This ballet highlights the strength and precision of the corps de ballet, reinforcing the idea that a company’s excellence is measured not just by its principal dancers, but by the entire ensemble.
Following this, the program will feature “Bloom”, a piece originally choreographed by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa in 2014 and performed by esteemed American companies such as Cincinnati Ballet and Los Angeles Ballet. Unlike traditional ballet compositions, Bloom places the spotlight on a male-dominated corps de ballet, showcasing the company’s versatility and strength in its 30th year.
The gala’s grand finale, “Pearls”, is a ballet that mirrors a dancer’s journey to refinement, much like a pearl forming over time. Divided into six segments, the production presents each dancer as a unique jewel, shaped by years of training to achieve effortless grace. Blending classical and contemporary ballet styles, Pearls will serve as a stunning tribute to Ballet Manila’s legacy.
Swan Lake: A Timeless Classic
Continuing the season, Ballet Manila will stage “Swan Lake”, a ballet masterpiece renowned for its extreme technical demands. Performances are scheduled for May 30, 2025, at 8 PM, and on May 31 & June 1, 2025, at 5 PM, with a special matinee on May 31 at 1 PM featuring Ballet Manila principal dancer Abigail Oliveiro and San Francisco Ballet artist Nathaniel Remez in the lead roles.
Adding to the excitement, San Francisco Ballet’s soloist Katherine Barkman—a former principal dancer with Ballet Manila—returns to perform as Odette (White Swan) and Odile (Black Swan). She will be joined by principal dancer Esteban Hernandez, delivering three breathtaking performances together.
As one of the most technically challenging ballets, Swan Lake is the perfect production to highlight Ballet Manila’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its signature Russian Vaganova training.
Closing the Season with Don Quixote
Bringing the celebratory season to a triumphant close is “Don Quixote”, featuring the return of Mariinsky Prima Ballerina Renata Shakirova. For Macuja-Elizalde, Don Quixote is a perfect season finale, as it has become a signature full-length ballet of Ballet Manila.
Shakirova will take on the role of Kitri, a character known for its dynamic jumps, multiple pirouettes, and the exhilarating 32 fouettés. Joining her is Joshua Enciso, making his debut as Basilio.
“Don Quixote is a ballet that feels like a two-hour non-stop celebration,” said Macuja-Elizalde. “We have an incredibly packed and exciting performance season, and I’m thrilled for audiences to finally witness what we’ve been preparing for our Pearl Year.”
A Season to Remember
With a dazzling repertoire that honors its rich history and pushes the boundaries of dance, Ballet Manila’s 30th season is set to be a remarkable celebration of artistry, resilience, and passion. From beloved classics to newly choreographed masterpieces, the company continues to uphold its mission: bringing ballet to the people and people to ballet.
All performances will be staged at Aliw Theater, Pasay City. For tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.To learn more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph
