Two of the world’s most celebrated ballet artists will once again step onto the Philippine stage to give Filipino audiences a glimpse of their extraordinary and world-renowned artistry, passion and technical brilliance.
This August, Ballet Manila brings back ballet superstars Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim, principal dancers of the Mariinsky Ballet, to breathe new life into the timeless classic, La Bayadère happening at the Aliw Theater on August 14 at 8 PM, and on August 15 and 16 at 5PM.
Notably, their return solidifies Ballet Manila’s long-standing mission of bringing world-class ballet closer to the Filipino audiences, giving local theatergoers a rare chance to witness internationally celebrated performers in the country.
“We are very excited to welcome Renata and Kimin back to Ballet Manila,” exclaimed Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila’s founder and artistic director. She recalls with pride last year’s successful run of Don Quixote which starred the formidable duo. “Their performances in Don Quixote were truly unforgettable, and the response from Filipino audiences was overwhelming. It was a delight to see our audiences embrace them so warmly, and I know many have been looking forward to seeing them perform here again.”
Kim and Shakirova bring exceptional credentials to the production. Shakirova, whose extraordinary talent was recognized early on, is already a recipient of the prestigious 2025 Benois de la Danse award – touted as the “Ballet Oscar.” The Tashkent, Uzbekistan-native is highly regarded for her musicality, dramatic depth, and commanding presence; thus, establishing herself as one of the Mariinsky’s top prima ballerinas.
Conversely, Kim started ballet relatively late – at around 10 years old – but made his mark as the first foreign male principal dancer in the Mariinsky Ballet’s history. He is also highly acclaimed worldwide for his remarkable athleticism and precise technique. As a pair, they are just as impressive having won the Russia-Kultura TV’s Grand Ballet competition in 2016.
The couple are no strangers to La Bayadère, one of the celebrated masterpieces in ballet. Set in ancient India, the story follows the tragic love story of the temple dancer (bayadère) Nikiya and the warrior Solor. The High Brahmin (high priest), who is also in love with Nikiya, learns of her relationship with Solor and asks the Rajah to kill Solor. But his plan backfires when the Rajah orders Nikiya to be killed instead. The classic melodramatic love triangle spans both the mortal world and afterlife.
At the Mariinsky Theatre, Kim regularly performs the role of the noble warrior Solor, while Shakirova has portrayed both the Nikya and the regal Gamzatti, highlighting her versatility that has earned her international acclaim.
“Renata and Kim’s extensive experience with La Bayadère promises Filipinos audiences a moving and authentic interpretation of Marius Petipa’s enduring masterpiece. We hope that by the end of the show, the audience will have a renewed love for ballet,” concluded Lisa Macuja Elizalde.
Stay 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
