#TheaterPH - Experience a world of adventure and chivalry as Ballet Manila performs “Don Quixote”
Ballet Manila's production of "Don Quixote" recreates the excitement and romance of one of the most cherished classical ballet works, showing the dance company's mastery of the genre to the greatest levels. The performances will take place at Pasay City's Aliw Theater on May 27, 2023, at 8 PM, and May 28, 2023, at 5 PM.
"The challenges that Ballet Manila has faced these past years have proven our grit and resilience in the face of adversity, which I believe is relatable with Don Quixote's burning passion, the love for adventure and challenges to prove oneself. It also fills me with so much excitement to showcase our edge in classical ballet once again as a dance company with the return of Don Quixote this year," said Macuja Elizalde.
Esteban Hernandez, an American dancer and rising star of the San Francisco Ballet, will travel to Manila to perform as Kitri's love interest, Basilio, and embody the Hispanic essence of Don Quixote's epic story. Hernandez is swiftly rising to prominence in the world of ballet. He began performing with San Francisco Ballet in 2013, and in 2017 and 2019, he was given the titles of soloist and main dancer.
His appearance at Gala Despertares in Mexico City, which was organized by Soul Arts Productions, owned by Esteban and his brother, Isaac Hernandez, was one of the rising star from San Francisco's most remarkable achievements. His efforts in the performing arts have also earned him numerous honors, including the Latino Spirit Award from the California Latino Legislative Caucus, presented in Sacramento, California.
He is also a recipient of the Jerome Robbins Foundation Award and gold medals at the Youth America Grand Prix and was named one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Mexico.
The iconic role of Kitri, on the other hand, will be performed by Ballet Manila’s principal dancer, Jasmine Pia Dames, who is also a Gawad Buhay 2015 awardee as Best Featured Female in Classical Ballet for her role in Romeo and Juliet. Interestingly, her twin sister Jessica Pearl portrayed the same role in the modern iteration of the same story directed by Martin Lawrance in February, which is also part of the 25th season performance.
“The role of Kitri has always been one of my favorite ballerina roles. As a mentor and director, it brings me great joy to see Ballet Manila’s future Kitris embody the grace, strength, and passion that this role demands,” said Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, Artistic Director of Ballet Manila. “We see this as an opportunity to showcase the depth of talent in our company,” she adds.
Don Quixote is part of Ballet Manila's 25th season performance on its 27th year which was kicked off by Martin Lawrance’s very Filipino and contemporary take on Romeo and Juliet in February. To purchase tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph, or call 8891 9999.
For more information about Ballet Manila and its upcoming shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph.
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