On June 18, Ballet Manila unveiled the world premiere of Paquita during an exclusive VIP Night at Aliw Theater in Pasay City, gathering patrons of the arts, members of the media, cultural advocates, and ballet enthusiasts for what would become one of the company’s most significant productions in recent years.
From the moment guests entered the theater, there was an unmistakable sense of anticipation.
The lobby buzzed with excitement as attendees discussed Ballet Manila’s latest undertaking. Many were eager to witness how the company would reimagine one of classical ballet’s most beloved works, while others simply looked forward to another opportunity to experience the caliber of performances that have become synonymous with Ballet Manila.
Once the house lights dimmed, the audience was transported into a world of elegance and artistry.
The production immediately impressed with its stunning visual presentation. Intricately designed costumes, carefully crafted sets, and dramatic lighting transformed the Aliw Theater stage into a vibrant canvas where every movement felt purposeful, and every scene carried a sense of grandeur.
At the center of the production was the unmistakable artistic vision of Lisa Macuja Elizalde.
As Ballet Manila’s founder and artistic director, Macuja Elizalde has spent decades championing ballet in the Philippines, and Paquita reflected her enduring commitment to excellence. The production showcased not only technical mastery but also the company’s dedication to preserving classical ballet while introducing it to new generations of audiences.
One of the evening’s greatest strengths was the remarkable discipline displayed by the dancers.
Every ensemble sequence unfolded with precision, highlighting the countless hours of training and preparation behind the performance. The synchronization of the corps de ballet was particularly impressive, creating visually stunning formations that drew appreciative applause from the audience throughout the night.
The principal dancers carried the production with confidence and grace, navigating demanding choreography that required both athleticism and artistry. Their performances demonstrated the level of professionalism that Ballet Manila has consistently cultivated over the years.
Yet beyond the technical accomplishments, what made the evening memorable was the emotional impact of the performance.
Through movement alone, the dancers conveyed joy, tension, romance, and triumph, allowing audiences to become fully immersed in the story. The absence of spoken dialogue only underscored the power of ballet as a universal language—one capable of communicating profound emotions through gesture, expression, and motion.
The younger members of the company also shone throughout the production.
Their performances revealed a promising future for Philippine ballet, demonstrating not only talent but also the dedication required to carry the art form forward. Sharing the stage with more seasoned performers, they brought fresh energy and enthusiasm that complemented the production’s overall strength.
As the ballet progressed, the audience became increasingly captivated.
Moments of breathtaking lifts, flawless turns, and intricate footwork were met with spontaneous applause, while the larger ensemble numbers showcased the company’s depth and collective artistry. Each act built upon the last, culminating in a finale that earned one of the night’s most enthusiastic reactions.
When the final curtain fell, the response was immediate.
Audience members rose from their seats in a standing ovation that echoed throughout the theater. The applause continued as dancers, creatives, and production staff took their bows, celebrating months of preparation and hard work that had culminated in a truly memorable performance.
For Ballet Manila, Paquita represents more than a successful production.
It stands as a testament to the organization’s continuing mission to elevate the performing arts in the Philippines and prove that local audiences can experience world-class ballet without leaving the country.
In an era dominated by digital entertainment and on-demand content, the production served as a powerful reminder of the magic that only live theater can provide—the shared experience of witnessing extraordinary artistry unfold in real time.
As guests exited Aliw Theater, conversations centered on the beauty of the choreography, the strength of the dancers, and the significance of seeing a production of this scale mounted by a Filipino company.
It was clear that Paquita had accomplished exactly what great performances are meant to do: inspire, move, and leave audiences wanting more.
For tickets, schedules, and upcoming performances, visit the Ballet Manila Official Website. (with reports from Lau Balocos)
