The world’s most romantic ballet is poised to capture the hearts of Filipino audiences once more, as Ballet Manila highlights its 22nd performance season with the return of the immortal classic “Swan Lake,” opening on Oct. 7 at Aliw Theater.
“‘Swan Lake’ has been a staple in our repertoire ever since the company was founded; it’s a ballet that is very dear to our hearts,” BM artistic director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde says. “It’s been three years from the time when we last staged its full-length production, and since the theme for this season is ‘Flights of Fantasy,’ we felt it would be fitting to bring it back and put our new generation of principals and soloists on center stage.”
In keeping with the company’s Vaganova roots, Macuja-Elizalde points out BM’s “Swan Lake” will stay close to the original “white acts” created by its Russian choreographers over a century ago.
“‘Swan Lake’ is a classical warhorse, and being able to stage a well-executed and, technically proficient ‘Swan Lake’ is the mark of true success for any company,” she says. “From the principals and soloists to the corps de ballet, it is the benchmark from which all other ballets follow. ‘Swan Lake’ is also a very good fit for BM because we have the experience, the artistry, the technique, and most of all, the numbers. ”
Portraying the twin roles of Odette and Odile for the first time are principal ballerina Katherine Barkman, and soloists Abigail Oliveiro and Joan Emery Sia.
They will be partnered by resident guest principal Joseph Phillips, principal danseur Rudy de Dios, and soloists Mark Sumaylo, Romeo Peralta and Elpidio Magat.
Each performance will be set to the live music of the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of guest conductor Alexander Vikulov.
“For as long as Ballet Manila thrives, ‘Swan Lake’ will always be part of our repertoire, and we will always be prepared to perform it in all its traditional glory,” Macuja-Elizalde says.
“Dancing the classics provides a firm foundation for all our company artists. More importantly, it keeps them grounded as they are reminded of the elegance and technical proficiency required to prosper and endure in this most difficult art form.”–CONTRIBUTED
“Swan Lake“ will run Oct. 7 and 14, 6 p.m.; Oct. 8 and15, 3 p.m., at the Aliw Theater, Pasay City. Call 8919999.
