The Ballet Manila Archives is the repository of documents, print, photographic, audio and video materials and memorabilia relating to the history of Ballet Manila and the life and career of its founder, prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde. This site is powered by Ms. Elizalde and Project Art, Inc.
“Hindi lang kasi sarili mo ang iisipin mo. Iisipin mo rin pati siya.”
In the final installment of her Swan Song Series in November 2013, prima ballerina and Ballet Manila artistic director Lisa Macuja Elizalde danced two contrasting roles in two vastly different ballets.
With the observance of All Saints Day (November 1) and All Souls’ Day (November 2), we once again focus on those moments when characters meet a tragic end and the dancing stops.
The beloved prince has also been exploring villain roles and, in typical Mark Sumaylo fashion, nailing them consistently.
This set of photos shows a sampling of those international influences that have converged on the Ballet Manila stage, fittingly brought to life by a multi-national cast.
“When it premiered in 2017, it felt like a dream,” reflects Geri. “Even now, as Ibong Adarna is being performed in different places, it still feels like a dream.”
“May fighting spirit naman ako na kakayanin ko ’yan! Hindi mahina ang loob ko sa mga ganyan.”
In October 2017, Swan Lake was again on center stage. Making their debuts were Katherine Barkman, Joan Emery Sia and Abigail Oliveiro.
Taking inspiration from the upland tribal communities in the north, choreographer Jojo Lucila created Sari’t Bahag which has been part of Ballet Manila’s repertoire from the start.
The physical language of the body is so much more powerful than words.
With the global observance of International Letter-Writing Week which includes World Post Day on October 9, we focus on the traditional mode of correspondence as exemplified in three of Ballet Manila’s productions.
They understand the characters that they want to portray and, for me, it comes naturally when I’m with them.
When the ballet premiered in 2017, she had a stress fracture and was unable to dance.
Cinderella will be presented on October 3 and 4 at the Taoyuan Arts Center.
The dance, of all the arts, is the one that most influences the soul. Dancing is divine in its nature and is the gift of God.
In the second quarter of 2026, Joshua Enciso had been working hard on his role as Lucien for Ballet Manila’s Paquita when his journey was interrupted by an ACL injury.
