Ballet Manila will hold the world premiere of Lisa Macuja-Elizalde’s latest choreographic work, “Snow White,” at Aliw Theater on Nov. 25 at 6 p.m.
Based on the classic fairy tale that has captured the hearts and imagination of children for many generations, the new work “promises to transport audiences to a fantasy world filled with all the delightful ingredients of dreams and make-believe. “
“I’ve always believed that ballet and fairy tales go hand-in-hand quite naturally,” says Macuja-Elizalde. “Both have the power to evoke enchantment. So when you combine a beloved fairy tale with music, lights, mime, sets, and costumes—then top it off with dancing of the highest quality— the result can be truly magical!”
Encouraged by the success of last year’s “Cinderella,” her first major work, Macuja-Elizalde says the pleasure she derives from working closely with the Ballet Manila dancers through the creative process helps quell her anxieties as a choreographer.
“I am truly inspired by my company,” she says. “All the dancers help a lot. I love how they sometimes make their own stories or do some moves during rehearsals that I end up using.
I also love the different plays of personalities I work with in these amazing artists. When I did ‘Cinderella,’ I was very insecure. But now with ‘Snow White,’ I already know what I want.
“If I ever get stumped, I don’t hesitate to ask for help, and that’s normally from my co-artistic director, Osias Barroso, who helps me tie up some loose ends. But I am proud to say that the choreography is all mine.”
Leading the cast as Snow White and her Prince are BM’s international principals Katherine Barkman and Joseph Phillips, alternating with soloists Joan Emery Sia and Elpidio Magat, and newcomer Heewon Cho and seasoned danseur Romeo Peralta.
Soloist Abigail Oliveiro portrays the Evil Queen, with Godwin Merano as her alter ego, the Witch.
Alfren Salgado and Mark Sumaylo alternate as Huntsman, with Violet Hong as his Wife and Carlos Luna as their Son.
Gerardo Francisco and twins Pia and Pearl Dames are the lovable Deer Family.
Rudy de Dios, Alvin Santos, Anselmo Dictado, John de Dios, Glenn Ragel, Sean Pelegrin, and Jamil Montibon play the Seven Dwarves.
Composer and arranger Von de Guzman combines his original music with the classical score of Jules Massenet and popular songs from the Disney animated film.
Set design is by Mio Infante, while costume design is by Michael Miguel.
Prior to the gala premier on Nov. 26, Ballet Manila’s “Snow White” will have a matinee on the same date at 3 p.m. Other playdates: Dec. 2, 6 p.m.; Dec. 3, 3 p.m. Visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.