#TheaterPH - A Day at the Ballet: Why Ballet Manila’s Swan Lake is the Must-See Performance of the Season

Earlier today, I had the privilege of attending the media call for Ballet Manila’s upcoming production of Swan Lake, and let me tell you—it was nothing short of magical. As the dancers took the stage for performance excerpts, I felt a familiar flutter of excitement. There’s something timeless about Swan Lake, and Ballet Manila is bringing it to life in a way that only they can.

This production is part of Ballet Manila’s Pearl Year, a celebration of 30 years of artistry, resilience, and world-class Filipino ballet. And what better way to mark this milestone than with Swan Lake, the quintessential classical ballet that tells the hauntingly beautiful story of Odette, a princess turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer’s curse, and Prince Siegfried, whose love might be her only salvation.

What sets this production apart? Ballet Manila is the only company in the Philippines capable of performing the full-length version of Swan Lake—a testament to their technical prowess and deep commitment to classical ballet tradition.

And the cast? Absolutely stellar.

During the media call, we were joined virtually by three of the show’s international stars:

• Esteban Hernandez, principal dancer of the San Francisco Ballet, who will be portraying Prince Siegfried.
• Katherine Barkman, a former Ballet Manila principal and now a soloist with San Francisco Ballet, returning to dance the iconic dual role of Odette/Odile.
• Nathaniel Remez, a rising talent from San Francisco Ballet, who brings a fresh, dynamic presence to the cast.

They joined us via video call from abroad, where they’re currently wrapping up other ballet commitments. They’ll be flying in next week—just one week before opening night—to begin rehearsals. It’s a tight schedule, but if anyone can pull it off with grace and brilliance, it’s this powerhouse team.

Also gracing the stage is none other than Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, Ballet Manila’s artistic director and the first Filipina prima ballerina. Her involvement in this production is both symbolic and inspiring—a full-circle moment that ties together the company’s legacy and future.

So why should you watch this?

Because it’s more than a performance—it’s a celebration of Filipino artistry on a world-class level. Whether you’re a ballet aficionado or simply looking for a night of beauty and inspiration, Swan Lake promises to be unforgettable.

Seats are limited, and with a cast like this, they’re going fast. Performances run from May 30 to June 1, 2025, at the Aliw Theater. Don’t wait—head to TicketWorld and secure your tickets now.

Let’s support the arts. Let’s celebrate 30 years of Ballet Manila. And let’s get swept away by the magic of Swan Lake.

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