MANILA, Philippines - In celebration of Ballet Philippines’ 40th year, the company will be opening the season with “Masterworks,” a showcase presenting significant works that have established Ballet Philippines as the flagship company in ballet and contemporary dance. From its treasure trove of over 400 works in classical and contemporary works, “Masterworks” will feature gems including Agnes Locsin’s neo-ethnic Igorot; Edna Vida’s Ensalada set to the music of Ryan Cayabyab’s Mamang Kutsero, Bakya Mo Neneng and Limang Dipang Tao; Bam Damian’s athletic pas de deux Evacuation; Gaano Kadalas..., created by the late Tony Fabella; Swimming the Ilog Pasig by Alden Lugnasin; William Carter’s neo-classical ballet, Bach Concerto; BP Founding Artistic Director Alice Reyes’ Romeo and Juliet; and Denisa Reyes’ timely Te Deum created in 1985 before the EDSA Revolution portraying through dance the struggles and aspirations of the Filipino people.
For this landmark work, Ballet Philippines will be accompanied live by the Manila Symphony Orchestra. For its musical premier in the Philippines, Te Deum will be performed with the special participation of the UP Concert Chorus and the Greenhills Christian Fellowship Chancel Choir with soloists Janet Sabas Aracama, Raymond Roldan and Jeannelle Bihag-Roldan. Pianist Greg Zuniega will be performing Bach’s Piano Concerto No. 5 in F minor in Bach Concerto, also with the MSO.
“Masterworks” is the first production under Ballet Philippines’ new Artistic Director, Paul Alexander Morales and new BP Foundation President, Margie Moran Floirendo. It is showing at the CCP Main Theater on Aug. 14, Friday 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., Aug. 15, Saturday, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., and on Aug. 16, Sunday, 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
For tickets, call 551-1003 or 551-0221. All BP Alumni, former collaborators and the press are invited to “Masterworks” opening night on Aug. 14, Friday 8 p.m. and are requested to call Ballet Philippines for their complimentary tickets (limited tickets available).