When in Manila and a lover of dance and theatre, then next weekend’s Romeo and Juliet show by Ballet Manila is a must-watch!
On October 2, 3 , and 4, Ballet Manila unveils Paul Vasterling’s “Romeo and Juliet”, the second offering of the company’s 20th performance season, hits the Aliw Theater stage for everyone to see!
Paul Vasterling is the Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet USA and is known for his powerful rendition of Shakespeare’s works. He will be in Manila to personally oversee the Manila staging; which also happens to be its Asian premiere. Even for the highly-acclaimed Ballet Manila production, he leaves no stone unturned in recreating the unforgettable tale of immortal love.
Along with his interpretative choreography is the powerful musical score by Prokofiev as interpreted by The Manila Symphony Orchestra with Maestro Alexander Vikulov of the Mariinsky Theater as guest conductor. Another surprising appearance is from Lisa Macuja herself. After officially hanging up her pointe shoes last year, Lisa dons them once again as she portrays Juliet’s mother, Lady Capulet opposite Nonoy Froilan who plays Lord Capulet. It ill also be a reunion of sorts, since Lisa will be dancing with Nonoy Froilan, one of the country’s premier danseurs.
And of course, fresh from their victory at the Asian Grand Prix in Hong Kong, Lisa proudly shared that the top winners in the international competition will be playing the role of Juliet. Katherine Barkman the 2015 Asian Grand Prix winner will play Juliet with silver medalist Abigail Oliveiro and bronze medalist Joan Sia as her alternates. Playing Romeo are Rudy de Dedios, Brian Williamson, and Elpido Magait.
Aside from the tribute to immortal love, the audience will also have their share of suspense with the action packed fight scenes. Unlike typical theatrical duels, there is no shouting or special effects. The audience will be treated to a thrilling match of graceful gestures and leaps, along with a symphony of flying swords.
Based on the jam-packed and star-studded cast of this production, this is defnitely one the shows you cannot miss!
“Romeo and Juliet” goes onstage on October 2 and 3, 8:00 p.m. and October 4, 3pm at the Aliw Theater in Pasay City. Tickets are available at all Ticketworld outlets, online at www.ticketworld.com.ph, or call 891 9999.
