Ballet Philippines Brings Us Giselle – Traditional Ballet is Still Alive
Ballet Philippines has proved to us once again that traditional ballet is very much alive. By bringing to us one of the classics, Giselle, Ballet Philippines continues to remind us how powerful dance is in conveying emotions and igniting realizations.
Giselle, a village girl who loves to dance, falls in love with Albrecht, a count who disguises as a peasant to woo Giselle. Later on, she uncovers the truth and dies of grief, only to forgive Albrecht and save him from vengeful spirits when they meet again in the other world.
Classic as it is, I don’t really like the story because it disempowers women. I have to thank Ballet Philippines for reminding us how this particular view of women is aaaages ago that we should be ashamed if we still perceive women this way.
Before the show started, I was quite nervous. How can Ballet Philippines render a unique performance of this traditional ballet piece without losing the essence which made it classic? Upon watching the show however, I realized it was wrong of me to doubt one of the best ballet groups in the country. Of course, Nonoy Froilan, the country’s premier danseur, wouldn’t give us less of what we expect!
The performance was smooth and the set was visually arresting. Act I was light and pas de deux was really lovely. Newly promoted soloist Denise Parungao, junior principal dancer Earl John Arisola, and the rest of the group showed us that our very own local dancers can give us a great performance.
I liked Act II better, primarily because the set and the dancers were so amazing, you couldn’t bear to take your eyes off them. Aptly known as the White Act, the white costumes against the moonlit set was ethereal.
Ballet Philippines deserves its 45 years of continuing support, but instead of us thanking them for providing us with rich experiences, they offer us a two-week mini festival called the Blue Moon Series. Giselle started off the celebration of Ballet Philippines’ sapphire milestone.
The Blue Moon Gala is set on September 26-27 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. It will feature Ballet Philippines’ favorite masterpieces. So what are you waiting for?
Ballet Philippines
551-1003
For tickets, call the CCP Box Office at 832-3704 or Ticketworld at 891-9999.
