The Philippines' most prolific ballet company joined forces with Asia's most romantic balladeer in a unique spectacle of dance and music. Ballet & Ballads with Christian Bautista opened its two-weekend run last Saturday with the popular singer performing for the first time with Ballet Manila.

The concert, which featured new choreographies by Augusto "Bam" Damian III, Martin Lawrance, and Ballet Manila's resident choreographers: co-artistic director Osias Barroso, ballet master Jonathen Janolo, and principal dancer Gerardo Francisco, is the company's final offering for its 22nd season. 

Balet Manila artistic director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde explained at the beginning of the show that the concept behind this musical treat was the brainchild of her husband, MBC chairman Fred J. Elizalde, who wanted her ballet company to collaborate with his radio station. 

Ballet Manila and Christian Bautista were also joined by ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Joshua Dos Santos and Klassikal Music Foundation artists led by its director, baritone Andrew Fernando, and including Jade Riccio, Stephanie Aguilar, Krissan Manikan Tan, Leo Angela Lanuza, with the special participation of KMF founder and patron, Dr. George T. Yang who also happens to be a tenor. 

Ballet & Ballads with Christian Bautista will have its last two shows on Feb. 17, 6 p.m., and Feb. 18, 3 p.m., at Aliw Theater. For tickets, please visit www.ticketworld.com.ph or call 891-9999.