MANILA, Philippines - The Halili-Cruz School of Ballet (HCSB) is representing once again the Philippines in the ongoing 16th Asia Pacific Dance Competition in Singapore. The HCSB is the grand prize winner in the 15th Asia Pacific Dance Competition, garnering numerous first prizes in classical ballet, neo-classical, contemporary and national, and in different groups — solo, duo/trio, pas de deux, ensemble and groups. The Philippine delegation is led by Grace Perez, Anna Kathrina Cruz and Anna Lissa Balmadrid. The Philippine ambassador to Singapore, Antonio Morales, will grace the awarding ceremony of the competition.
Shirley Halili-Cruz, founder and artistic director of the HCSB, believes that exposure to various performances here and abroad will further hone the talent and skills of her young dancers. The knowledge they will gain through cultural exchange activities contributes to their growth as persons and artists.
The HCSB has recently made a successful representation of the Philippines in the Ulsan City Arts Festival in Ulsan City, South Korea. The participation of the Philippines in the Asia Pacific Dance Competition has been a tradition of excellence and bringing pride to the country. The HCSB prides itself with artistically excellent performances and creative choreography, and is considered as the best school in molding talents of young children, thus, the school is awarded as the Most Outstanding Ballet School in Asia since 2000 to the present.
After the event in Singapore, the HCSB will represent the Philippines in the Asia Dance Committee in a dance workshop and meeting in Seoul, South Korea and in a festival in Russia.