A Full Circle Moment for Philippine Ballet
Few homecoming stories in the Philippine arts scene carry as much weight as Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s return from Moscow four decades ago. At the height of her career with the prestigious Kirov Ballet, now known as the Mariinsky Ballet, she chose to come back to the Philippines with a clear purpose. Her dream was simple yet powerful: make ballet part of everyday Filipino culture.
Now, 40 years after that defining decision, Ballet Manila honors her legacy through the PRIMA Performance Season. This curated lineup highlights classical masterpieces rooted in the Vaganova method while continuing the company’s mission to keep ballet accessible and relevant to local audiences.
For readers who enjoy stories about Philippine performing arts milestones, you may also want to explore related features on Snapped and Scribbled such as local theater highlights and cultural festivals across the country.
Ballet Meets Rock in a One of a Kind Collaboration
One of the most exciting highlights of this milestone year is a special production featuring iconic Filipino rock band The Dawn. Set for February 20 and 21 at 8:00 p.m. at Aliw Theater, the performance celebrates the parallel 40-year journeys of two cultural icons. The concept blends ballet choreography with beloved songs from The Dawn, creating a stage experience that bridges generations and artistic styles.
This collaboration is part of the Ballet & Ballads series, a project produced by Manila Broadcasting Company. The initiative traces its roots back to Fred J. Elizalde’s early vision for Ballet Manila, which aimed to bring classical dance closer to the public by collaborating with mainstream artists. By keeping ticket prices free or affordable whenever possible, Ballet & Ballads has helped expand the audience for ballet beyond traditional theatergoers.
The PRIMA Performance Season Takes Center Stage
Beyond the groundbreaking rock ballet, Ballet Manila’s PRIMA Performance Season promises a lineup of timeless classics. The company will stage Sleeping Beauty on March 14 and 15, 2026 at Aliw Theater, accompanied by the Manila Symphony Orchestra under Maestro Alexander Vikulov. This production offers audiences a full scale theatrical experience with live orchestral music enhancing the grandeur of the ballet.
In June, Paquita will take the spotlight on June 20 and 21, presenting a showcase of Ballet Manila’s Vaganova heritage. The piece highlights technical precision, elegance, and the company’s dedication to maintaining classical excellence.
The season will conclude with La Bayadère on August 22 and 23, featuring the return of internationally renowned guest artists Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim from the Mariinsky Ballet. Filipino audiences may remember their acclaimed Philippine debut during Ballet Manila’s Don Quixote performances in 2025.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
Reflecting on the anniversary, Lisa Macuja Elizalde shared, “Forty years ago, I came home with a mission to make ballet part of Filipino life. To see that vision continue through Ballet Manila and the PRIMA performance season is deeply meaningful not just for me but for everyone in the company. It proves that ballet can endure, adapt, and belong to everyone.”
Her words capture the essence of this milestone year. The celebrations go beyond one stage or one city. Ballet Manila will also present Ibong Adarna in Dumaguete this February and later at Ateneo’s Areté in October. The company’s international reach continues with a Kuala Lumpur tour in September, followed by the festive Holiday Cheer Series in December.
These performances emphasize that ballet is not a niche art form reserved for a few. Instead, it is an evolving cultural experience that connects communities both locally and internationally.
Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s 40th homecoming anniversary represents more than personal achievement. It symbolizes dedication to nurturing Philippine ballet and expanding opportunities for dancers and audiences alike. By combining classical productions with modern collaborations and community outreach, Ballet Manila continues to prove that ballet has a meaningful place in Filipino life.
For lifestyle readers who enjoy discovering cultural events, this season offers countless opportunities to witness world class performances without leaving the country. Whether you are a longtime ballet fan or simply curious about experiencing something new, the PRIMA Performance Season invites everyone to take part in this historic celebration.
Stay updated on performance schedules and ticket details by visiting Ballet Manila’s official website and Ticketworld page.
