Summer Workshop Treats 2015 : Hip Hop Dance Workshop with Margherita “Meg” Vasselli at Ballet Ph Dance School starting April 8

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Learn New Style Hiphop with Margherita Vasselli

Looking for a way to up your hip hop game? Grab this opportunity to train under Italian choreographer and Hip Hop International Elite Judge Margherita Vasselli.

As part of the 46th annual CCP Summer Dance Workshop, Margherita “Meg” Vasselli joins in the Ballet Philippines tradition of bringing together budding dancers who are eager to learn. In this case, she will enrich advanced hip hop students’ vocabularies in New Style Hiphop.

Vasselli started her dance training at the age of 6 in ballet, contemporary, and modern dance. In 1999, she started studying hip hop with Italian and foreign choreographers. She also became a teacher in dance schools and a Hip Hop Presenter in Italy, Europe, and Brazil. In 2003 she started to work with Hip Hop International. This was the most important moment in her professional life, because she started to met the most important names of the Hip Hop movement, in USA and around the world. That same year, she became a certified international hip hop judge in Miami (Florida) and every year since then she attended the international course, focusing her attention both on the artistic side as well as on the technical side of the competition routines. She became an Elite Judge for Hip Hop International in 2014 and is currently is the judge director of Hip Hop International in Italy, Brazil and UK.

Train with HHI Elite Judge this summer at Ballet Philippines Dance School

New Style Hip Hop emerged with the rise of hip hop choreography in music videos. Dancers alternately move through and hit the music’s beats and typically utilize their flexibility and isolate specific body parts. With the fundamental hip hop techniques as guidelines, they can learn how to freestyle with musicality, at the same time stay true to the hip hop genre.

Margherita Vasselli will hold classes every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 4:00PM to 6:00PM at Ballet Philippines Studio One starting April 8 until May 2, 2015. A special master class for choreographers will be held on May 9, 2015.

The Ballet Philippines Dance School (BPDS) is the professional training ground of the country’s most promising young talents in dance. With a unique curriculum that encompasses various dance styles and techniques, the systematized method and approach to instruction takes highly into account children’s anatomy and psyche at various ages and levels so that the training is physically safe, technically effective and artistically enriching for students of all ages.

Connect to the Ballet Philippines Dance School online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ccpdanceschool

www.facebook.com/bpdanceschoolaura

Twitter: @balletph

Instagram: @ccpdanceschool

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/balletph

See you at the studio!

Transcending the generation gap

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Filipinos are family-oriented. That is the story of our culture. A fact woven into the very fabric of our existence. 

From our first hours on earth to the very last, we are surrounded with family. We celebrate birthdays, fiestas, countless Christmases and reunions together. Truly, we value our family ties. 

From our parents and siblings, to our lolos and lolas, Pinoys are known for putting a premium on what matters most.

That’s why the cast of Rep’s latest offering believe that Filipinos can relate with the story of 4,000 Miles, a play about an widowed old woman and her grandson who suddenly drops by after a cross-country bike ride.

“It’s about understanding. It’s about our journey towards growth and wisdom. That’s what makes it so universal. I think by the end of it, we’ll all walk away just a bit wiser about the dynamic of human relationship,” Bart Guingona, the play’s director said.

Jeff Flores, who plays the role of Leo in the stage play, says that Filipinos would be able to identify with the characters in this adaptation of Amy Herzog’s masterpiece. “Leo and Vera have a very untraditional dynamic...there are things in their relationship that is very universal, and that is something that Filipinos should watch,” Flores added.

Flores will be sharing the stage with one of the most veritable names in Philippine theater, Baby Barredo, who will be playing the role of Vera. Her castmates and director were all praises for Barredo, who they say is quite a joy to work with.

Flores also feels very privileged to portray the role of Leo. A character he says he finds so easy to identify with. “Leo is a manchild. He has a habit of running away from the stress, which works for me in my life. Being Leo has forced me to admit a lot of things that are childish about myself.”

The play will be shown on March 6 to 29 at the Onstage Theater, Greenbelt 1, Makati City. And as early as now, the cast of 4,000 Miles is more than excited to bring this story to Pinoys. Guingona, describes the material as one of the best-written plays he has handled. He excitedly shares that a monologue delivered by Flores’ character is destined to be a classic. “What I love about this play is it is a quiet play. There’s no histrionics and high-drama,” Guingona added.

Caisa Borromeo and Cara Barredo will also join the cast as Bec and Amanda, respectively. 

In its various runs across America, 4,000 Miles has received praise for its story. It has been heralded as the Best New Play by the Obie Awards in 2012 and was a Finalist for the prestigious Pulitzer Prize. Amy Herzog was also recognized as an outstanding playwright by the New York Times.

4,000 Miles will be shown starting March 6 and will last until March 29 at the Onstage Theater in Greenbelt 1, Makati City. Theater veteran Baby Barredo will play the role of Vera, while Jeff Flores will portray Leo.

About 4,000 Miles

After suffering a major loss while he was on a cross-country bike trip, 21 year-old Leo seeks solace from his feisty 91 year-old grandmother Vera in her West Village apartment. Over the course of a single month, these unlikely roommates infuriate, bewilder, and ultimately reach each other. 4,000 Miles looks at how two outsiders find their way in today's world.

4,000 Miles will be staged from March 6 to 29 at ​Onstage Theater in Greenbelt 1, Makati City. Ticket prices ranges from P400 to P600. For more details regarding 4,000 Miles, call the RepertoryPhilippines at 843-3570 and book tickets through Ticketnet at 891-9999 or visit their website at www.ticketworld.com.ph​

PAHIMAKAS: The Last Eight Hours of Rizal

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ALDABAS Theater Friends and Company announces the staging of PAHIMAKAS: Huling Sandali ng Isang Bayani. It is based on the last moments of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal as he ponders on his life coming to an end in the morning of December 31,1896. 

PAHIMAKAS: Huling Sandali Ng Isang Bayani by Nathaniel Arciaga takes us to the innermost recesses of Dr. Jose Rizal's mind as he examines the crucial decisions he made in his short but eventfull life leading to his martyrdom. The play also takes a look at some of Rizal's writings and his relationship with the last people to see him alive through conversations with former mentor, family members, a young news paper boy, a newspaper man and a host of fictional characters he created.

PAHIMAKAS is produced by ATFC under the direction of Don Umali. 

Lead actor ROMEO ABAIGAR’s biggest acting challange in life is doing the difficult role of Dr. Jose Rizal. He is a familiar face in television commercials and has appeared in countless films and TV anthologies. 

Veteran theatre and movie actor Archie Adamos portray the role of Tavile de Andrade while Ces Aldaba the role of Jesuit Father Balaguer and Padre Damaso. 

Also in the cast of Pahimakas are :

Banni Baldesseri as the Governador Heneral, Richard Manabat (who is also a stage director) alternates with Vic Romano as Don Rafael/Don Francisco, Andro Morgan as Mataix/Elias, production designer, muralist, sculptor and artist Clarence Alvear playing the role of Pepito/ Basilio, Loy Oladive as Pasyano/ Tasyo, Gina Villa in the role of Donya Teodora/Sisa, and Jeanette Queblatin as Trining.

The two main characters in Rizal's book Simoun Ibarra and Crisostomo Ibarra are portrayed by Mon Osma as Simoun and TJ Roxas as Crisostomo. Luri Naluz, Erby Lopez and Jan Mart Lacdao portray Guardiya Sibil, and Echo Camacho as the Jesuit and Franciscan priest. 

PAHIMAKAS is scheduled on March 14, 2015 at St. Scholastica's College.

"Season of Desire" - a story of love, treachery and vengeance

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FEATURING WORKS BY MOZART AND VERDI

ALL SET FOR ONE-NIGHT ONLY OPERA CONCERT ON FEB. 7

As a pre-Valentine treat, come and watch Featuring Elaine Lee (soprano), Ivan Nery (tenor), Lawrence Jatayna (baritone) and Dingdong Fiel (piano). Directed by Nazer Salcedo. 

"SEASONS OF DESIRE" is a tribute to the Filipino Asianovela craze, as well as an attempt to extend the love for opera to a broader audience. Using selected opera pieces from Mozart and Verdi, " Seasons of Love " features tropes from local and international dramas - the sudden tragedy, a betrayal of trust, a plot of revenge, a redemption --- and incorporates these tropes to songs from famous operas such as Le Nozze de Figaro, Magic Flute, La Traviata and Rigoletto.

Repertoire:

1. Mozart: Marriage of Figaro Overture

2. Mozart: Cinque, dieci, venti... (Marriage of Figaro) - duet

3. Mozart: Ein Madchen oder Weibchen (Magic Flute)-solo

4. Mozart: In Uomini (Cosi fan tutte)- solo

5. Mozart: Deh vieni alla finestra (Don Giovanni)- solo

6. Mozart: Papageno/Papagena duet (Magic Flute) - duet

7. Verdi: Mini Overture from Rigoletto

8. Verdi: Questo o Quella (Rigoletto) - solo

9. Verdi: Signor ne principe (Rigoletto) - duet

10. Verdi: Caro nome (Rigoletto) - solo

11. Verdi: Cortigiani (Rigoletto) - solo

12. Verdi: Mio Padre...Tutte le feste (Rigoletto) - duet

13. Verdi: Si vendetta (Rigoletto) - duet

14. Verdi: La donna e mobile (Rigoletto) - solo

15. Verdi: V'ho ingannato (Rigoletto) - duet

16. Verdi: Addio del passato (La Traviata) - solo

“Seasons of Desire” – a story of love, treachery and vengeance in an opera concert set on FEBRUARY 7, 2015 – SATURDAY - 8 p.m. at the Abelardo Hall, College of Music in U.P. Diliman, Q.C. 

“Seasons of Desire” is a story of a couple excited to start their lives together as a family. While they prepare their wedding festivities (Cinque dieci, venti – Le Nozze di Figaro), there was a reminiscence of the man searching for a maiden to be his wife (Ein Madchen oder Weibchen – Magic Flute). A call of fate happened that one rainy afternoon, he saw this lady doing her chores singing to herself (In uomini, in soldati – Cosi fan tutte). Their eyes met and the man serenades her (Deh vieni alla finestra – Don Giovanni). This encounter blossomed into a romantic entanglement. Nothing is sweeter than love. They finally got married and started their lives together they did planning on having children (Papageno/Papagena duet –Magic Flute). Soon, season of love bears fruit to a lovely daughter. 

The mother died during childbirth. The season of treachery and vengeance loomed. The used to be strong man is now an old weak father. He raised the daughter on his own. She grew into a beautiful maiden. Every morning she goes to work at the Hopia de Leche Factory. The infamous owner of the factory is known for using his charm to lure women. For him, women are nothing but a bunch of toys for pleasure (Questo o quella – Rigoletto). With her innocence, she never thought that this man has an evil agenda on her. He did his sweet talks and she immediately fell for them (Signor ne principe – Rigoletto). She felt like floating in love, enchanted by his charms, his handsome physique (Caro Nome – Rigoletto).

The owner asks permission from the maiden’s father, with the intent of bribe to take her out for a day. The father, enraged by the man’s seemingly immoral character, turns him down, sends him away. His refusal pushed the owner to do something drastic. 

As the day is about to end, the father went to fetch his daughter from the factory just to find out that his daughter was no longer there. Desperately he searches for his daughter fears for her safety and time is running out (Cortigiani). Suddenly the father hears a cry, calling his name. He sees a helpless maiden apparently torn of her dignity (Mio Padre…tutte le feste). The father vows vengeance as soon as he finds the mystery criminal (Si vendetta, tremenda vendetta). 

The mystery man wore a mask man revealed his identity at the bar as he brags to his drinking buddies that women are easily replaceable (La donna e mobile). The father recognizes the boss of her daughter in the Hopia de Leche Factory is the mastermind. He found an opportunity to plot his revenge by knocking the man unconscious. When the man gained consciousness, he was tied up and shouts for help. The innocent maiden freed him in return he killed her. This is treachery. The father saw a dead body in the room where he locked the man never to expect it is his daughter. She apologizes to her father as she bids farewell. Her spirit will rest together with her mom. She pleaded her father to forget vengeance and just forgive (V’ho ingannato). She pleads to forgive and let go of all the anger (Addio del passato – La Traviata).

Featuring topnotch artists Elaine Lee (soprano), Ivan Nery (tenor), Lawrence Jatayna (baritone) and Dingdong Fiel (piano), "SEASONS OF DESIRE" written by Vladimeir Gonzales and Directed by Nazer D. Salcedo, is a tribute to the Filipino Asianovela craze, as well as an attempt to extend the love for opera to a broader audience. Using selected opera pieces from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Giuseppe Verdi, the one-night only opera concert shall feature tropes from local and international dramas - the sudden tragedy, a betrayal of trust, a plot of revenge, a redemption --- and incorporates these tropes to songs from famous operas such as Le Nozze de Figaro, Magic Flute, La Traviata and Rigoletto.

Soprano Elaine Lee was called “a new star in the Philippine Opera World” (Malaya Newspaper) with her “clear articulation, unerring pitch, her style smooth and fluid” (Philippine Star).

She has had various performances both in the Philippines and in Canada. She also joined the San Diego Opera Chorus in California. Her most recent roles were Lucy in Menotti’s The Telephone and Musetta in Puccini’s La Boheme with the Philippine Opera Company. On the side, Elaine produces her own concerts and stage productions that feature opera excerpts, Chinese and Filipino folk classics, and Broadway selections. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music, with a major in Opera Performance (from the University of British Columbia in Canada). There, she played Papagena in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte, Shirley Kaplan in Kurt Weil’s Street Scene, Hebe in Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld and Sarah Good in Robert Ward’s The Crucible. Other noted opera excerpts she has performed are Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro, Gounod’s Romeo et Julliet, Heggie’s Dead Man Walking and Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Gondoliers. She has also done a recording with XAX Music Entertainment for a translated Korean Teleseries soundtrack, Endless Love 1 Autumn In My Heart in 2002. Other achievements include awards from the Vancouver Women’s Musical Club and the Kiwanis Music Festival. 

Presently, she has this vision for a while of producing a concert that comprise of opera excerpts that contains a storyline. It is a ‘Glee’ related influence style but in an opera format. Her goal is to be able to access and educate local audiences about opera.

Described as “an artist who possesses a beautiful voice that is smooth and clear and with a wide range of coloring plus unsullied musiciality” Tenor Ivan has been slowly earning a reputation as one of the most promising young tenors and a major talent to look at to in the country today – Inquirer.net

Ivan Niccolo C. Nery

Ivan Niccolo C. Nery is a Tenor from St. Scholastica’s College, Manila. He has been very active in the country’s opera and classical scene during the past few years, portraying mostly lead roles and some minor roles and was featured in numerous concerts around Manila. Ivan won the 1st prize in the Jovita Fuentes Vocal Competition and is an Aliw award nominee for best actor in a musical (Noli me tangere the opera 2012).

Lawrence Jatayna

A respected baritone in the Philippine classical music scene, Lawrence Jatayna has done solos for the major works of Beethoven, Puccini, Mahler, Rossini, and Mozart, and has done significant roles for the operas La Boheme, Madama Butterfly, Cosi Fan Tutte, and The Magic Flute. He has also worked with the Singapore Lyric Opera (SLO) in January 2008 as “Doctor Grenvil” in “La Traviata”, was an opera chorus member of SLO’s “Tales of Hoffmann” (Feb-March 2009), the Singapore Symphony Orchestra’s “Fidelio” (February 2012), Opera Viva’s “Fences” (August 2012), then with SLO again as The Registrar / chorus member in “Madama Butterfly” (February 2013). As a chorister, he was a member of the U.P. Singing Ambassadors (UPSA) in 1995 and was able to travel with the group to the U.S.A., Israel, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, Spain, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and finally to Switzerland, where UPSA won First Place in the Festival Choral de Neuchatel. In 2001, he was a pioneer resident artist of the first professional choir in the Philippines, The San Miguel Master Chorale. Lawrence is the vocal coach and vocal arranger for Philippine Opera Company’s “Harana” and “Ang Bagong Harana”. He acquired his diploma from the U.P. College of Music, Major in Voice, under the tutelage of the late Professor Elmo Q. Makil. He is a currently a freelance vocal coach, vocal arranger, and voice instructor and is a voice faculty member of the University of the Philippines College of Music Extension Program.

Dingdong Fiel

Dingdong Fiel earned his Bachelor of Music degree from the UST conservatory of music and was the recipient of the RECTOR'S AWARD FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE having obtained the highest academic average of the entire course, as well as the BENAVIDES AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT. 
After graduation, he studied for more than 2 years at the FRANZ LISZT Academy of Music in Weimar, Germany under Rector ROLF DIETER ARENS (Solo Piano and Chamber Music). He also studied Vocal accompaniment with the eminent pedagogue PROF. KARL PETER KAMMERLANDER. 


FIRST PRIZE - UST ETUDE COMPETITION Cat. A (2002) 


FIRST PRIZE - UST MOZART/HAYDN SONATA COMPETITION (2003) 


FIRST PRIZE - UST BEETHOVEN/SCHUBERT SONATA COMPETITION (2003) 


FIRST PRIZE - DR. ERNESTO LEJANO AWARD IN PIANO (2005) 


FIRST PRIZE - PTGP MOZART CONCERTO COMPETITION (2006) 


Through sponsors like the DEUTSCHE POST, THUERINGER AUFBAUBANK, SPARKASSE THUERINGEN and THE FRANZ LISZT STIFTUNG, Dingdong was able to perform in a series of CONCERTS AROUND EUROPE, ASIA and the USA- in Spain, Italy, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, The Czech Republic, Serbia, Croatia, Guam, China and Japan among other countries.
He was commissioned by the Embassy of Greece to write music for the Greek silent film "THE GREEK MIRACLE" and was commissioned to write music for the SPANISH FILM "PILAR GUERRA". Both films were shown at the 5TH MANILA INTERNATIONAL SILENT FILM FESTIVAL 2011. 
Last February and March 2013, He was the Musical Director /Vocal Coach for Repertory Philippines' manila staging of the musical " NO WAY TO TREAT A LADY". Dingdong was the Musical Director of “LORENZO” Rock Opera by Ryan Cayabyab, which is set for a repeat run at the CCP. He is at present the musical director of “Into the Woods” produced by Upstart Productions.

Nazer D. Salcedo

Nazer D. Salcedo is a stage actor, director and classical singer. He is currently finishing his Masters in Theater at the University of the Philippines Diliman. A faculty of De LaSalle University Dasmarinas and MINT International College. Trainer and Artistic Director of Teatro Lasalliana of DLSU-D, He was part of the Actors company of Tanghalang Pilipino of The Cultural Center of the Philippines from 1999 to 2004. A Grand National winner of the 1994 Kundiman Fiesta. One of the first Filipino to perform in Avignon theater festival in France. Inquirer’s Bravo best of theater best featured actor in a musicale in 2006, 2007,2010. He has worked with Repertory Philippines, Trumpets,Tanghalang Pilipino, Gantimpala theater foundation, Dulaang Talyer, Dulaang UP, Music Theater Foundation Of the Philippines, Opera Guild, Kidz Act, Philippine Opera Company, Bit by Bit production GMA-7 and ABS-CBN. Some of his memorable Theater Credits are Mabini (Aguinaldo, Dulaang Up 2014) Maxie the Musicale (Mang Paco, Bit by Bit production 2013), Josephine (Director, Up’s Dulaang Laboratoryo, Teatro Lasalliana 2013), Ang Bagong Harana (Philippine Opera Company 2011-2013), Orosman at Zafira (Boulasem, Dulaang UP 2010,2011,2013), The Three singing Gondoliers (Venetian Macau, Asian Tour 2009) Isang Panaginip Na Fili (Tunying, Dulaang UP 2009), Pilipinas Circa (Tanghalang Pilipino 2007) Himala (Pilo, Tanghalang Pilipino 2005), Rite Of Passage (Tiyoy Berning, Tanghalang Pilipino 2004), Walang Sugat (Tanhalang Pilipino, World Expo In Aichi, Japan 2004) Le Cercle (Dulaang Talyer, Avignon France Theater Festival 2003), Candide (Candide, Dulaang Talyer 2000), Mayo Bisperas ng Liwanag (MTFP, US Tour 1998). Recently he was a nominee in The Aliw Awards.

For ticket inquiries, please call 0919-4722340 or send email to productions.bellanotte@gmail.com. 

“MANHID: The Pinoy Superhero Musical” wraps up Ballet Philippines’ 45th anniversary season

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YOUNG ACTORS JOIN BALLET PHILIPPINES IN 

“MANHID: The Pinoy Superhero Musical”

On February 2015, “MANHID: The Pinoy Superhero Musical” wraps up Ballet Philippines’ 45th anniversary season. Set in an alternate present day Philippines where the EDSA revolution failed, this musical features heroes and villains with superpowers, and a people sick with Kamanhiran (Apathy).

Leading the cast of superheroes as Bantugan “Tag-inip” Buenaventura is Sandino Martin, who recently won Best Actor at the Cinema One Originals Awards Night for his role in “Esprit de Corps”. Bantugan is a journalist with the power to communicate with the other superheroes through his dreams. Alternating the role is Ballet Philippines Apprentice, Mark Anthony Grantos.

Sandino Martin

Female lead Lam-Ang “Amihabagat” Panganiban, who controls the Amihan and Habagat winds, will be played by Regina de Vera and Teetin Villanueva. A resident actor of the Tanghalang Pilipino Actors Company, de Vera won the Gawad Buhay award for Outstanding Female Lead Performance in a Play in 2013 for “Der Kaufmann”. Villanueva is a recent Theatre Arts graduate from UP Diliman. Her thesis role performance as Hermana Augusta Beata in Floy Quintos’ COLLECTION earned her nominations for the 26th Aliw Awards and BroadwayWorld Philippines’ Awards in 2013.

 

Teetin Villanueva.

Gold Villar takes on the role of Allunsina “Mura-dugo” Albano, who has the power to draw blood through her curse words. Villar is a senior teaching artist for the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) and has been part of productions Mga Kwento ni Lola Basyang, Batang Rizal, Si Juan Tamad, Ang Diablo at ang Limang Milyong Boto and most recently, Rak of Aegis. Also playing Allunsina is Kim Molina, who recently was an alternate for the lead role of Aileen in the highly celebrated musical, Rak of Aegis. 

Gold Villar

Urduja, the mysterious goddess of all insects is played by recent discovery KL Dizon. A graduate of the Philippine High School for the Arts, Dizon has performed with the Philippine Opera Company on various productions. 

KL Dizon

Dilim, a nightclub singer whose tragic songs bring on darkness, is played by Jean Judith Javier, who was last seen in the premiere of Ang Huling Lagda ni Mabini with Dulaang UP, and recently appeared in Noli Me Tangere the Opera as the madwoman, Sisa.

Jean Judith Javier,

Lagrimas, whose tears can heal anything, is played by Ronah Rostata, a graduating Theatre Arts major from the University of the Philippines Diliman.

The cast of villains is led by Mayen Estanero, essaying the role of the Demonyita Mamalahima, the Minister of Humanity. In 2013, Estanero played the role of Rosario, wife of Lorenzo Ruiz in the Filipino-language rock opera “Lorenzo” and Nyai Ontosoroh in “Pramoedya”, which was part of Virgin Labfest. 

Fred Lo and Ricardo Magno alternate as Radya Indarapatra “Mata-balani” Evangelista, an actor by day who has the power to become one’s heart’s desire. A full time performer, some of Lo’s most notable roles have been Mark Cohen in 9works Theatrical’s “RENT” and “Prince Christopher” in Resorts World’s “Cinderella”. Magno, a scholar of the Tanghalang Pilipino Actors’ Company, recently performed with Ballet Philippines in August 2014 as Emilio Aguinaldo in “La Revolucion Filipina”. 

Ballet Philippines dancers also take on the challenge of portraying the roles of comic book heroes and villains. Featured are Jean Marc Cordero, Katherine Trofeo, Richardson Yadao, Earl John Arisola, Cyril Aran Fallar, Emmanuelle Guillermo, Timothy Paul Cabrera, Rita Angela Winder, Karmela Gaile Cortez, Gillianne Therese Gequinto, Kazier Policarpio, Victor Maguad, and Erl Emmanuel Sorilla. 

Eraserheads

This original Filipino dance musical is by Kanakan Balintagos, with musical collaborators Vincent de Jesus, Carina Evangelista, and the Eraserheads. This year’s production will be directed by BP Artistic Director Paul Alexander Morales and choreographed by Alden Lugnasin. The shows will feature the Radioactive Sago Project as its live band. 

Radioactive Sago Project

“MANHID: The Pinoy Superhero Musical” will have a three-weekend run at the CCP Main Theater on February 20-22, February 27-March 1, and March 6-8.

For bulk reservations, show buys, and inquiries, visit www.ballet.ph or call Ballet Philippines at 551-1003. For tickets, call the CCP Box Office at 832-3704 or Ticketworld at 891-9999.

Connect to Ballet Philippines online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/balletphilippines

Twitter: @balletph

Instagram: @balletphilippines

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/balletph

The 45th Anniversary Sapphire Season. Rare scenes of power and grace. Love, valour and redemption. Under the artistic directorship of Paul Alexander Morales, this is a toast to 45 years of dance excellence! 

See you at the theater!

Finland’s Amazing Magic Theater’s "Wally Watthead and his Lost Glow" set to open Nov. 14

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PETA Theater Center’s upcoming treat for the whole family! Light bulbs falling in love? Photo frames as leading ladies? How about simcards as dashing sidekicks? All these and more !

This November 14-16 and 21-23 every 10 am and 3pm, the PETA Theater Center stages Finland’s Amazing Magic Theater’s Wally Watthead and his Lost Glow.

Join Wally Watthead, his best friend Simon the Simcard and leading lady Polly the Picture, as they try to find out: where did Wally’s light go?

In this children’s show devised by magician Janne Raudaskoski, lead character Wally Watthead levitates, shrinks and grows right before your very eyes !

Raudaskoski not only does magic tricks, but also acts onstage with multi-media characters such as screen-projected Polly Picture, played by Tuija Nuojua Raudaskoski, and an interactive robot-like mascot of Simon the Simcard, voiced by Jonathan Hutchings. 

Wally Watthead and his Lost Glow combines magic, clowning, mime, black light theatre, video, various special effects, and plenty of laughs for kids, parents -- and even grandparents -- to enjoy!

Once again, the PETA Theater Center flips the cliché “all the world’s a stage” through its latest offerings, and becomes ‘a stage to all the world’ by hosting unique international performances such as Finland’s Wally Watthead and his Lost Glow. 

Tickets are Php 800 for VIP and Php 600 for regular audiences. 

For tickets contact Ticket World at 891-999 or Ticketworld.com 

or contact the PETA Theater Center at 725 – 6244 loc 21-23, 0915-4933728 

or email peta.theatercenter@gmail.com

“Beauty and the Beast” is staged in Manila in January, 2015

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Celebrating its 20th year, the Disney Theatrical Production is bringing to the Philippines the “Beauty and the Beast” international tour. The hit Broadway musical that drew record audiences during the past 20 years with its wonderful songs and music, spectacular production, fabulous costumes and superb acting will awe and enthrall Filipino music and theater enthusiasts when Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is staged in Manila in January, 2015.

The beautiful and timeless story of love and transformation behind one of the most-loved fairy tales of all time will hold fans spellbound when the original Broadway musical spectacular makes its debut on January 9-25, 2015 at the Main Theater (Nicanor Abelardo Hall) of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City.

Disney Theatrical Productions, NETworks, Broadway Entertainment Group are collaborating together with Ovation Productions in bringing to the country the Broadway musical as part of its ongoing 10-country first-ever international tour in celebration of its 20th anniversary on the stage.

After debuting in Istanbul (Turkey), the musical will play in Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates), Thessalonik (Greece), Trieste (Italy) and Milan (Italy) before heading to Manila (Philippines), Bangkok (Thailand), Singapore, Jakarta (Indonesia), Kazakhstan and, finally, Macau, marking the first time it will be seen in these areas.

The selection of Manila as part of the musical’s international tour is in recognition of the Philippines’ stature as a promising area in mounting huge productions of live entertainments, according to Liz Coops, producer for Broadway Entertainment Group.

“The Philippines is today’s premier Asian market in theater production,” she said, “that’s why our team have decided to make Manila the first stop in the Asian leg of the international tour of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.”

Renen de Guia of Ovation Productions, which is observing this year its 35th anniversary in music and entertainment promotion, expressed elation over the opportunity to handle the Manila staging of “Beauty and the Beast,” as he thanked Disney Theatrical Productions, NETworks and Broadway Entertainment Group for their trust and confidence in Ovation’s capability to mount the production.

“’Beauty and the Beast” is simply an incredible theatrical experience that will tug on everyone’s emotions,” De Guia said. “All the characters – from Lumiere, Gaston, Belle and the Beast – are spot on, captivating and brilliant in their roles.”

“The stage props are fabulous and as are all the colorful and cheery costumes. The music, the songs, the choreography are spectacular. Everything about it is mystical and magical and fun for both children and adults. It will have you want to watch the musical every night,” he added.

“Beauty and the Beast” is the classic tale of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. The story goes that if the Beast can learn to love and be loved in return, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But if the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed forever.

The international touring production is directed by Rob Roth and choreographed by Matt West. Completing the original Broadway creative team in the tour are Tony Award-winning Ann Hould-Ward, costume design; Natasha Katz, lighting design; Stanley A. Meyer, scenic design; John Petrafesa, Jr., sound design; and Michael Kosarin, music supervision.

Behind the music of the stage production is Alan Menken (“The Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin”, “Tangled”), with lyrics written by the late Howard Ashman (“The Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin”), additional songs with music by Menken and lyrics by Tim Rice (“The Lion King,” “Jesus Christ Superstar”).

The book is written by Linda Woolverton (screen writer of “The Lion King,” “Alice In Wonderland” and the upcoming “The Maleficent”). 

Based on the 1991 Academy Award-winning animated feature film of the same title, Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” premiered on Broadway in 1994 and was nominated for nine prestigious Tony Awards and ran for 13 years. It still ranks as one of the longest-running and highest-grossing Broadway shows of all time.

(Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” will be staged at the CCP Main Theater on Jan. 9-25, 2015 at 8 pm with matinees at 2 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. It is presented by Disney Theatrical Productions, Inc., NETworks, Broadway Entertainment Group, MKFAE and Ovation Production and supported by GLOBE BUSINESS, VISA, FOX International Channels, DIAMOND HOTEL, the Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, and BusinessWorld. Tickets are priced at P7,895, P6,845, P5,790, P4,740, P4,210, P3,160 and P2,105, plus applicable service charges. They are available at Ticketworld outlets (891-9999) and online at www.ticketworld.com.ph, beautyandthebeast.com.ph and Facebook.com/beautyandbeastph.)

"THE WIZARD OF OZ ", set to open on September 26

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Kids Acts Philippines proudly presents “ THE WIZARD OF OZ ” with script and lyrics by Luigi Nacario and music by Eugene Belbis.

The story is adapted from the popular version of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum.

The Wizard of Oz is story of a young girl named Dorothy Gale from Kansas who always imagined of beautiful things somewhere over the rainbow. One day, a cyclone came that hit her house and spinned up inside the cyclone, floated down through clouds and crashed to the beautiful and colorful land of the munchkins, the Munchkinland. Her adventure started by following the road paved with yellow bricks to meet the Wonderful Wizard of Oz and asked her way to Kansas. Along the way she met Scarecrow, Tin Woodman and Cowardly Lion who became her friends and went with her to also seek help from the Wizard. Their journey became so thrilling and enchanting because of the magical powers of the four witches of Oz, the Wicked Witches of East and West and the Good Witches of North - Belinda and South - Glinda. All Witches had magical things that made Dorothy’s adventure delightful, from the Silver Shoes of the Witch of the East to the broomstick of the Witch of West and from the magical kiss of Belinda to the Glinda’s revelation of the charm of the shoes. 

The story is about determination, love, courage, honesty and an important place like no other in the world – home.

Discover the true charm of the Silver Shoes! Is The Wonderful Wizard of Oz true or a humbug? Kids Acts Philippines will unfold the whole story on stage showcasing the genuine portrayal of the TheCampArt Kid Actors, the scholars’ pool of the company ages 7 to 15 years old. This is a musical play for kids and by the kids augmenting children’s interests in performing arts.

The cast of “ THE WIZARD OF OZ ” features TheCampArt KID ACTORS - Kyline Alcantara (The Wicked Witch of the East), Joshua Ang (Guardian of the Gates/Prince Quelala), Walline Calderon (Princess Gayelette), Woersha Calderon (Queen Mouse), Noel Comia (The Wizard of Oz), Shanelle Comia (Auntie Em), Danica Cortina (Head of the Munchkins), Nadine Cortina (Dorothy), Liam Crisologo (Head of the Winged Monkeys), Van Crisologo (Tin Woodman), Kyla Depositar (China Princess), Nathan Flores (Guardian of the Gates/Prince Quelala), Ella Gonzales (Head of the Munchkins), Denzel Guiao (Tin Woodman), Ivan Jacolsalem (Head of the Winged Monkeys), Alliah Lagulao (Auntie Em), Angel Lagulao (China Princess), Yedda Lambujon (Wicked Witch of the East), Amy Libot (Wicked Witch of the West), Hya Leonado (Belinda), Liza Marcos (Princess Gayelette), Gabie Mendoza (Dorothy), Atascha Mercado (Wicked Witch of the West), Allen Orolfo (Scarecrow), Raven Orolfo (Cowardly Lion/Uncle Henry), Justin Orolfo (Scarecrow), VJ Parreno (Cowardly Lion/Uncle Henry), Jo Angelie Salandanan (Glinda), Kara Salvanera (Red Soldier Girl), Kyla Salvanera (Glinda), Jewel Yu (Queen Mouse), Angel Yu (Belinda)

The artistic team of THE WIZARD OF OZ is composed of Eugene Belbis (Orchestration); Christian Bautista (Lighting Design); Emma Doverte (Production Management); Jasvir Basra (Stage Management); Manuel Edralin (Set Design); Luigi Nacario (Choreography & Costume Design); and Arvin Mercado & Navette Flores (Photography). 

Press Preview: SEPTEMBER 27, 2014 at 1:00PM

Venue: STAR THEATER, Star City Compound, CCP Complex, Pasay City

Regular Run: SEPTEMBER 26 (Friday) and 27 (Saturday), 2014. 

Time: 10:00AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM & 7:00PM

Venue: STAR THEATER, Star City Compound, CCP Complex, Pasay City

Ticket Price: Php 450. Call TICKETWORLD at 891.9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph

For further inquiries, please call 7501551 / 09154478959

Or visit Facebook page – www.facebook.com/kidsactsphilippines

Follow us on Tweeter – www.twitter.com/KidsActs

Istagram: @kidsactsphilippines

Ballet Philippines celebrates 45th Anniversary – The Sapphire Season with the much-awaited homecoming gala set on Sept. 28

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PROMISES TO BE AN UNFORGETTABLE ONE-NIGHT ONLY TRIBUTE CONCERT LIKE NO OTHER

Ballet Philippines, the country’s flagship dance company is celebrating its 45th Anniversary – The Sapphire Season with the much-awaited HOMECOMING GALA set on Sept. 28, 2014 – 8 p.m. at the Cultural Center of the Philippines – Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo.

How will a 45-year old ballet company celebrate its ‘homecoming gala’? With the return of around 20 distinguished alumni with a whopping total of over 200 students in tow, no less!

45 years of sharing the gift of dance is a rare feat. And to mount this concert, Ballet Philippines will share the stage with the different ballet companies, dance schools and artists who have sprung from the company’s rich tradition of excellence.

In the BP Company Room in 1974

The participating artists are from Ecole De Ballet Manille, Seven Contemporary Dance Company, De La Salle Zobel Ballet Program, Portland Festival Ballet, Quezon City Performing Arts Development Foundation, Inc.; Edge N’ Pointe Dance Centre, Dance Theatre Arts, Locsin Dance Workshop, Tlg Ballet, Far Eastern University Dance Company, Maquiling Ballet, Effie Nañas Ballet, Airdance, Dancepull Project, Inc.; Garcia-Sanchez School Of Dance (Bacolod City); Perry Sevidal Ballet; Daloy Dance Company; Steps Dance Studio, Annie Divinagracia-Sartorio School Of Performing Arts (Iloilo City); and the CCP Dance School.

The biggest names in the field of Philippine dance shall present their works from various genres --- classical ballet, modern, pop and ethno-modern.

The who’s who list comprises of distinguished alumni of the company and includes: Eddie Elejar, Agnes Locsin, Effie Nañas, Perry Sevidal, Luther Perez, Eduardo Malagkit, Robert Medina, Dwight Rodrigazo, Georgette Sanchez, Annie Divinagracia-Sartorio, Annette Cruz-Mariano, Ela Rodriguez, Verna Fajilan-Brazil, Ryan Bautista, Brezhnev Larlar, Toni Lopez Gonzalez, Nina Anonas, Christine Crame, Ava Maureen Villanueva-Ong, Ea Torrado, and Sofia Zobel-Elizalde.

Annette Cruz-Mariano

Dwight Rodrigazo

Eddie Elejar

Effie Nañas

Georgette Sanchez in Alden Lugnasin's Aku

Luther Perez

The 45th Anniversary Sapphire Season. Rare scenes of power and grace. Love, valour and redemption. Under the artistic directorship of Paul Alexander Morales, this is a toast to 45 years of dance excellence!

Verna Fajilan-Brazil

Don’t miss this rare treat!

For bulk reservations, show buys, and inquiries, visit www.ballet.ph or call Ballet Philippines at 551-1003.

For tickets, call the CCP Box Office at 832-3704 or Ticketworld at 891-9999.

Connect to Ballet Philippines online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/balletphilippines

Twitter: @balletph

Instagram: @balletphilippines

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/balletph