Ballet Manila Moments: In synch
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.
Sabay-sabay, foreign dancers of Ballet Manila agree, is the first Filipino word they learn upon joining the company. To dance all together and in unison is a lesson that co-artistic director Osias Barroso continuously drills into the hearts and minds of the dancers. But it also poses a unique challenge: how does one stand out yet stay in synch?
Thus, Ernest Mandap’s Lune strikes a deep chord. Lune, a piece about two similarly clad women attempting to assert their individuality but ending up doing the same thing, premiered in 2014 as performed by Sofia Sangco-Peralta and Naomi Jaena. It has become a favorite among Ballet Manila fans especially during the Ballet & Ballads tours where it is often featured.
Sofia and Naomi have since retired from Ballet Manila. Sofia is now part of The Lisa Macuja School of Ballet where she is teaching aspiring ballerinas to dance sabay-sabay.
Lune remains a coveted piece for young dancers. Recent performances have featured company artists Sharia Comeros and Emma Zoe Harris, as well as real-life twins Jasmine Pia Dames (principal dancer) and Jessica Pearl Dames (soloist).
