Ballet Manila and The Dawn Unite for Free Landmark Performance in Pasay
In a bold and imaginative artistic crossover that is captivating the hearts of dance and music enthusiasts across the nation, two iconic pillars of Filipino culture—classical ballet and OPM rock—are joining forces for a groundbreaking production this February in Manila. The esteemed Filipino ballet company Ballet Manila is proudly presenting "The Dawn of Ballet," an unprecedented collaboration with the legendary rock band The Dawn. This extraordinary event is scheduled for February 20 and 21, with performances commencing at 7:30 PM at the prestigious Aliw Theater in Pasay City, as a highlight of Ballet Manila's acclaimed Ballet & Ballads series.
Remarkably, this once-in-a-lifetime collaboration is offered entirely free of charge. To secure admission, interested attendees must visit the official Facebook account of Ballet Manila and register through the provided link. This initiative underscores the company's commitment to making high-quality artistic experiences accessible to all.
A Fusion of Two Art Forms
This innovative performance series masterfully pairs the elegance of ballet choreography with the powerful music of The Dawn, one of the Philippines' most cherished rock bands, creating a vibrant celebration of both classical and contemporary Filipino artistry. This concept marks the inaugural collaboration between the band and the ballet company, featuring dancers who will interpret eight of The Dawn's iconic songs through expressive and dynamic movement.
The show is a cornerstone of Ballet Manila's 31st season and coincides with significant milestones for both collaborators. The Dawn is celebrating its 40th anniversary in the music industry, while Ballet Manila's artistic director, prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, commemorates 40 years since her return from training with the world-renowned Kirov/Mariinsky Ballet in Russia. This homecoming profoundly shaped the company's mission to democratize ballet and make it accessible to Filipinos from all walks of life.
As Lisa Macuja-Elizalde emphasized, the Ballet & Ballads series was established to dismantle the misconception that ballet is exclusively for the elite or the highly educated. With the series now in its 31st year, it clearly demonstrates that ballet enjoys a far broader and more diverse audience in Manila than previously imagined.
Special recognition is due to Lisa Macuja-Elizalde's husband, Fred Elizalde of Manila Broadcasting Corporation, whose insistence ensured that the Ballet & Ballads series remains free admission. This collaboration with The Dawn promises to be another memorable addition to Ballet Manila's illustrious history of partnerships, which includes notable shows with artists such as Jaya, Ariel Rivera, Christian Bautista, and Side A.
What to Expect
Rather than a simple juxtaposition of dance and live music, "The Dawn of Ballet" intricately weaves these elements into a fully integrated and cohesive performance. Ballet Manila's talented choreographers have crafted original pieces that vividly reflect the emotion, rhythm, and essence of The Dawn's repertoire, with selected hits reimagined through the art of movement.
The band will perform live, remaining central to the experience, while the ballet company's dynamic and expressive choreography breathes new life into the music. Audiences can particularly anticipate the interpretation of the band's beloved anthem "Salamat," which is expected to be a highlight of the show.
A Celebration of Legacy and Innovation
For aficionados of both ballet and Filipino rock, this production offers more than mere entertainment; it represents a significant cultural moment—a seamless blending of tradition and innovation that mirrors the evolution of performing arts in the Philippines. Whether drawn by the rocking melodies of The Dawn or the refined athleticism of Ballet Manila's dancers, "The Dawn of Ballet" is poised to deliver an unforgettable and inspiring experience.
