Ballet Manila Presents Flight 1 and Flight 2
Dance enthusiasts all over the country have another reason to cheer for world-class performers as Ballet Manila presents Flight 1 and Flight 2 on July 31 and August 1, respectively at 8 pm at the Star Theater. These are two completely different programs to be performed for two consecutive nights. These events will serve as a preview of Ballet Manila’s entry to the Asian Grand Prix International Ballet Competition (AGP) slated in August at the Y-Theater, Hong Kong.
Back-to-Back Concert
“Flight 1” and “Flight 2” are two different shows featuring the dance company’s bestseller pieces by top choreographers Agnes Locsin, Augustus Damian III, Gerardo Francisco, and the late Tony Fabella. The show also includes classical showstoppers “Don Quixote,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “Le Corsaire” and the “Black Swan Pas De Deux” from “Swan Lake”. The back-to-back concert will showcase the best of Ballet Manila and highlight the skill and artistry of all the dancer-competitors. “Am truly proud of this year’s competitors; keeping my fingers crossed that we do well this year.”, says Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, Ballet Manila Artistic Director and CEO.
Asian Grand Prix Backgrounder
The Asian Grand Prix International Ballet Competition (AGP) is an annual competition hosted by Youth Ballet of Asia and operated by Hong Kong Arts Development & Production Company Ltd. It was established in 2011 and is now on its 5th year holding the competition. The competition aims to recognize the artistic excellence of local and international dancers by allowing participants to demonstrate their talent, explore their potential, and learn from their peers and dance professionals. Outstanding dancers receive cash awards for career advancement in professional ballet companies. They can also receive training scholarships in renowned ballet schools.
Ballet Manila Participation
When Ballet Manila first joined AGP in 2012, the dance company won Finalist certificates and top honors including the Bronze Medal in the Pas de Deux division and the Most Promising Male Danseur award. In 2013, Ballet Manila won Finalist certificates and the Silver Medal in Junior B division, the Bronze Medal in the Senior division, and the Silver and Bronze Medal in the Pas De Deux division. This year, 23 dancers from the Ballet Manila Company and School of Ballet Manila will compete in the Junior A, Junior B, Junior C, Pre-Senior, Senior and Pas de Deux, categories.
My Say
These events clearly show the dedication of Ballet Manila in producing internationally competitive dancers who will make our country proud. This is not an easy thing to do but the company persists in attaining its goal of not only in bringing ballet closer to the people but also encouraging more support for the art. I would like to echo the invitation I received from Ballet Manila. Join Ballet Manila Artistic Director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde at the front seat of The Star Theater, as she sends off her most talented dancers to the international competition.
Tickets for “Flight 1′ sand “Flight 2” are available at Ticketworld outlets, www.ticketworld.com.ph, or call 891 9999 and the Ballet Manila marketing hotline at 552 7502. Those who will purchase tickets for both shows will get a 20% discount.
Summer
I may hate dancing but I love watching dance competition. Goodluck to the participants. I’m confident that they’ll have an outstanding performance.
Karen
Knowing Ballet Manila’s integrity when it comes to ballet, I’m sure their Flight 1 and Flight 2 program will be a big hit. The last time I watched ballet was during my sister’s recital. It’s relaxing to watch ballet.
Mark Villar
This play would really an epic event especially Liza Macuja is there. I remember her on our subject history I guess , she really contribute a lot in our Philippine arts.
Franc Ramon
I like that they had two shows with similar concept but different stories. It would be great to watch this.
JeLo Pal
One of the ballerina here is my girl cousin. She invited us, but can’t come because we are here in Davao, schedules are very hectic. Good luck to her and to all Ballet Manila participants.
Orly Ballesteros
I support any artistic undertakings, and ballet is an artistic expression that must spread in our country. Goodluck to Ballet Manila 🙂
boundfortwo
Filipinos in general doesn’t much appreciate ballet, hope the younger generations will be more interested on this art.
Shelly
I really admire the dedication of Lisa Macuja-Elizalde in grooming Filipino ballet dancers to flourish in this field, not only in the local scene but worldwide. These dancers are world-class performers. I hope they get utmost support they deserve.
Dianne Salonga
This play looks interesting especially that Liza Macuja Elizalde is there. For sure, Filipino artists and skills are one of a kind.
Papaleng Pagulong
To be honest, I find Ballet shows so boring. I’d rather spent time watching gymnastic events.
Fernando Ceballos Lachica
Ballet take its turn over time that people with passion usually got the finacial help they want. Obviously, the rare breed for Filipinos.
rochkirstin
Oh wow. I have always been interested in ballet dancing and it’s great how modern choreographers create shows that feature a certain story incorporated in the dances. I trust that Ballet Manila dancers will do well and they will make our country proud.
Carlo Andrew Olano
It has been a while since I watched ballet or even a dance show. I love dancing and I am hoping that something similar will be coming to Cebu. I would definitely support Ballet Manila if they have a show here. 😉