Ballet Manila Archives

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Ballet Manila Moments: The legacy of M.A.Z.N.

Since 1995, Ballet Manila has been creating unforgettable performances on stage. As the acclaimed storytellers on toes, they have breathed life to an amazing range of classical and contemporary fare. The Ballet Manila Archives celebrates some of those moments from the company’s first 25 years through this series.

M.A.Z.N. premiered in 2009 as part of Ballet Manila’s 14th season-opener, Halo-Halo Extra Special. More importantly, it marked the first collaboration between choreographer Augustus "Bam” Damian III with the company - the first of many that would become iconic pieces for Ballet Manila.

The title was derived from the names of the dancers it was choreographed on: Mylene Aggabao, Alfren Salgado, Zaira Cosico, and Nazer Salgado. They have all since left the company but the choreography continues to be among the most performed in BM’s repertoire. It has been included in many national and international tours including a special performance in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia just last year organized by M.A.Z.N. original, Alfren Salgado.

Featured in this clip are principal dancers Joan Emery Sia and Mark Sumaylo who have carried on this legacy, upholding the high standards set by the original dancers 11 years ago.