Ballet Manila brings an extended run of Florante at Laura to Hyundai Hall in Areté

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Responding to overwhelmingly positive reviews, Ballet Manila is set to rekindle the magic of Florante at Laura, the iconic Filipino epic poem turned ballet, with a much-anticipated restaging, this time at the Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University, in Quezon City, from November 22 to 24, 2024. The production recently captivated audiences with its stunning choreography, evocative original music, and breathtaking dancing during its triumphant world premiere at the Aliw Theater last month.

A Filipino literary masterpiece, ‘Florante at Laura,’ was written in 1838 by the Prince of Tagalog Poets, Francisco ‘Balagtas’ Baltasar. It is a narrative poem that tells the story of Florante, the Duke of Albania, who is captured by Turks. His beloved Laura is forced to marry Count Adolfo, the usurper. With the help of the warrior Aladin, Florante escapes, returns to confront Adolfo, and seeks redemption as he reunites with Laura.

Under Lisa Macuja Elizalde's artistic direction, Ballet Manila has assembled a world-class creative team to bring this epic Filipino tale to the stage.

“Florante at Laura” is more than just a performance; it is a cultural experience that celebrates the rich literary heritage of the Philippines. Not only does this performance pay tribute to the timeless masterpiece by Francisco ‘Balagtas’ Baltasar, but it also showcases the exceptional talents of the dancers, choreographers, and creative minds behind this production.” Ballet Manila CEO and artistic director Lisa Macuja Elizalde said.

The performance will feature the recording of the original score composed by the esteemed National Artist for Ryan Cayabyab as performed by the talented Orchestra of the Filipino Youth, conducted by Maestro Toma Cayabyab. This powerful combination of music and dance has captivated and moved audiences, making each part of the performance an unforgettable experience.

“This full-length composition is one of my legacy pieces. It is my gift to the Filipinos, and I want Ballet Manila to share it with generations to come,” said Cayabyab.

Members of the ballet's creative team include choreographers Gerardo Francisco Jr. and Martin Lawrance; libretto consultant and the foremost Balagtas expert, Dr. Michael Coroza; award-winning set designer Mio Infante; lighting director John Batalla; and costume designers Make It Happen.

Show schedule is as follows: November 22, 2024, 6:00 pm; November 23, 2024, 7:30 pm and November 24, 2024 3:30 pm. Tickets are available online via Ticketworld; direct link to purchase, https://bit.ly/BMFloranteAtLauraAretéBuyTickets. To learn more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph.

Alice Reyes Dance Philippines Unveils "Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad": A New Dance Adventure for Young Audiences

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MGA KUWENTO NI JUAN TAMAD is the latest addition to Alice Reyes Dance Philippines' expansive repertoire of Filipino works, this time designed specifically for Children's Dance Theater.

This new offering marks a significant milestone for one of ARDP’s talented choreographers, Erl Sorilla, who has crafted both the book and his first full-length choreography.

The production is brought to life with a captivating musical score by award-winning singer-songwriter Toto Sorioso, and magical sets and costumes designed by the renowned Filipino Director and Broadway Designer, Loy Arcenas.

Under the mentorship of National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, and ARDP Artistic Director, Ronelson Yadao, this production promises to be a magical experience for young audiences.

The story follows the adventures of Juan Tamad, the misunderstood boy in town, and his loyal monkey companion, Matsing. Aided by Juan’s unique ability to converse with animals and his innate love for nature, they set out to find the village’s most prized treasure, the fruit of all their hard-work and labor stolen by the greedy ‘Buwaya,’ the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ A challenge he must complete to win the hand of Maria Masipag.

Along his journey, Juan encounters a variety of animals, including those from the stories of ‘Pagong at Kuneho,’ ‘Ang Gamu-gamu at ang Lampara,’ and ‘Buwaya at ang Paboreal.’ Through these encounters, Juan learns valuable moral lessons that guide him on his path. With the help of the animals, Juan grows in character, and ultimately finds the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ Inspired by the classic Filipino children’s stories of ‘Juan Tamad,’ this production brings a new twist to the beloved tales.

The new work will feature ARDP company dancers Renzen Arboleda as the titular Juan Tamad, with Karla Santos as Maria Masipag. Dan Dayo will take on the role of Juan’s trusted sidekick, Matsing, with John Ababon as Pagong, Monica Gana as Kuneho, Earl John Arisola as Buwaya, Krislynne Buri as Paboreal, and Francia Alejandro as Lampara,. Also featured are ARDP trainees Gianna Hervas and Crizza Urmeneta as the Gamu–gamu.

This production is specifically created for students, as it aligns with Grade 1-10 and High School subjects, including Filipino, Arts, Music, Humanities, Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao, Personal Development, Araling Panlipunan, Physical Education. Through dance and storytelling, MGA KUWENTO NI JUAN TAMAD offers an enriching, multidisciplinary educational experience.

MGA KUWENTO NI JUAN TAMAD premieres on November 10, 2024, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater as part of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Children’s Biennale. Admission is on a Pay-What-You-Can basis. Please stay tuned on Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Social Media Pages for registration links.