A true love's kiss

CEBU, Philippines - Sweet princess

If through this wicked witch’s trick

A spindle should your finger prick

A ray of hope there still may be

In this, the gift I give to thee

Not in death, but just in sleep

This fateful prophecy you’ll keep

And from this slumber you shall wake

When true love’s kiss, the spell shall break

For true love conquers all

— Sleeping Beauty

 Choreographed by Marius Petipa, “The Sleeping Beauty” is one of the most popular works of classical ballet based on a classic fairy tale about the journey of a heroic prince to free his true love, Princess Aurora, from her deep sleep with a kiss.

Dancing as Prince Florimund is Nicolas Pacaña, Artistic Director of Atlanta Festival Ballet Company and Atlanta Festival Ballet School. He teaches and choreographs for the company and the school and often performs principal roles with the company as well. 

Mr. Pacaña began dancing under Fe Sala Villarica. After studying on scholarship with Patricia Stander in Los Angeles, he made his professional debut with the Honolulu City Ballet. In 1976, Mr. Pacaña joined The Boston Ballet as soloist and quickly rose to the rank of Principal Dancer. He became recognized among the finest classical danseurs. Since then Mr. Pacaña has performed and taught all over the world and in 1985, he returned to the Philippines to perform with the Philippine Ballet Theatre at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

Mr. Pacaña continues to direct Atlanta Festival Ballet. He remains in great demand as a guest artist and teacher.  His reputation as an outstanding choreographer continues to grow throughout the Southeast and the world. 

Presented by the Arts Council of Cebu and Balletcenter in cooperation with Ayala Mall Cinemas, Tempra and Natrapaharm Generics, Sleeping Beauty will be staged on August 26 & 27, September 2 &3, 2011 at Onstage, Ayala Center Cebu. Tickets are priced at P500, P300, P400, P200 & P150.

For tickets & inquiries please call 233-0452 or 232-2958. (FREEMAN)