Filipino audiences have long embraced stories of sweeping romance, hidden identities, and hard-won triumph. Ballet Manila now brings these themes to life in a landmark moment: the country’s first ever, full length staging of the classical masterpiece Paquita. Choreographed by the company’s founder and artistic director, Lisa Macuja Elizalde, the production goes onstage at the Aliw Theater, Pasay City, with performances on June 19 at 8:00 p.m. and June 20–21 at 5:00 p.m.
Ballet Manila principal dancers Abigail Oliveiro and Joshua Enciso
Though Paquita is a cornerstone of classical ballet, it is rarely performed in its entirety. And because of its dramatic narrative, Lisa believes that it will be remarkably relatable, to the Filipino. Lisa describes the narrative as “quite like a soap opera, with twists and turns that are amusing and entertaining which is perfect for Filipinos who love a great story or telenovela.”
Set in Spain, the story follows a young Romani woman who saves the life of a French officer, Lucien, from a governor’s assassination plot. Along the way, she discovers her own noble heritage, allowing the couple to overcome rigid social barriers and marry in a happy ending that many Filipinos love.
The journey to this landmark production began in March 2025, when Paquita’s grand divertissement was performed during Ballet Manila’s Pearl Gala celebration. The brief excerpt sparked a deeper curiosity in Lisa as she recalled starting to dig into the story behind the ballet excerpt: “When I finally read it in full, I decided that it would be exciting and perfectly manageable to present a two-act classical ballet to the Filipino audience.”
While the production honors its classical roots, Macuja Elizalde intentionally avoided watching existing versions to keep her choreography entirely her own. “I started to build the ballet chapter by chapter in my head,” she explained. “But the actual creation didn’t happen until I was in the studio in front of the dancers.”
Working closely with her team has reinforced Ballet Manila’s strong Russian ballet foundation. Lisa noted that the company’s 40-member ensemble is the perfect size to handle the intricate, challenging choreography. At the heart of this production, two luminous pairs alternate in the main characters role: Joshua Enciso with Abigail Oliveiro, both principal dancers, and Shamira Drapete with Jos David Andes, both soloists. Together they embody the dual spirit of Paquita and Lucien, bringing fresh brilliance to one of classical ballet’s most dazzling showcases.
For Oliveiro, stepping into the shoes of Paquita under Lisa’s guidance has been an incredibly rewarding and collaborative experience, “It is always a good experience, and she is very clear in what she wants while keeping an open mind,” Oliveiro shared. “I try to listen and observe what Ma’am Lisa wants from the ballet, character, or scene so I can understand her vision and fulfill it.”
The role also offers Oliveiro a rare chance to showcase a different side of her artistry. “I realized I had to tap into my more playful side which, dare I say, is not a common theme in a lot of my repertoire,” she added. “So I’m certainly enjoying being playful.”
Ultimately, the creative team and cast hope the production leaves audiences feeling uplifted and delighted. As Lisa concludes: “I hope the audience will laugh at the comedic scenes and swoon in the romantic ones; as well as stand up and scream during the technically difficult portions! I hope the audience comes out of the theater smiling and humming the music.”
The Philippine ballet scene will reach another milestone with the historic world premiere of Paquita on June 19 at 8:00 p.m., June 20 & 21 at 5:00 p.m. Keep up-to-date with Ballet Manila’s schedule of performances and celebration events by visiting Ballet Manila’s website www.balletmanila.com.ph or Ticketworld page www.ticketworld.com.ph
