Ballet Manila offers a modern take on the classic fairy tale “Cinderella” in its Christmas production, combining the elements of love, magic and dance in a fun and enchantment-filled package perfect for the holidays.

In “Sinderela,” the prince becomes matinee idol Al Principe, who holds a search for his leading lady through a grand dance audition.

With the help of her fairy godmother, Tita Nia, Sinderela gets to show off her dancing skills, which are far more refined than those of her wicked stepsisters. But at the stroke of midnight, Sinderela hurriedly departs, leaving behind her slipper and an awestruck Al to figure out who its rightful owner is.

With libretto/story adaptation and choreography by Hazel Sabas-Gower, “Sinderela” will have its world premiere on Nov. 30 at Aliw Theater, CCP Complex, Pasay City. Shows are also scheduled on Dec. 1, 2, 8 and 9.

Prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde steps into Sinderela’s slippers; with Jennifer Rose Olayvar and Sofia Sangco-Peralta as alternates.

Taking on the role of Al Principe are Nazer Salgado, Romeo Peralta and Rudy de Dios.

Hana Oh dances as Tita Nia, the beggar-woman who turns out to be a nature enchantress.

Using music by Sergei Prokofiev, “Sinderela” is based on the classic tale by Charles Perrault and the Grimm brothers. Libretto editor is Scott Gower; with set design by Katsch Catoy and costume design by PJ Arañador.

“This 21st-century Pinoy interpretation of a well-loved fairy tale is not to be missed,” promises Macuja-Elizalde, who is also Ballet Manila’s artistic director. “‘Sinderela’ has all the familiar elements, but with a twist they can relate to. Instead of a grand ball, we have a dance audition reminiscent of the reality talent competitions we see on television today. Then we have garden spirits and time spirits which will also be entertaining to watch.”

Tribute to Elgar

Along with “Sinderela,” Ballet Manila also presents “Sonata,” its tribute to the 150th birth anniversary of Sir Edward William Elgar. With choreography by BM artistic associate and rehearsal master Osias Barroso, the homage in dance is set to Elgar’s Sonata in E Minor, Opus 82 for Violin and Piano.

Featured in select performances are guest violinist Robert Atchison and pianist Olga Dudnik. Mylene Aggabao and Eileen Lopez are the restagers of “Sonata.”

The world premiere of “Sinderela” is presented by the Manila Broadcasting Company, Ballet Manila and Aliw Theater, in cooperation with Bank of Singapore, with special thanks to First United Travel, Star City, Ralph’s Wines and Spirits, and Island Rose.

For ticket inquiries and other information, contact Ballet Manila at tel. 5255967 or 4000292, or through the website www.balletmanila.com.ph. Call Ticketworld at tel. 8919999 or visit ticketworld.com.ph.