Ballet Manila has staged the popular holiday ballet The Nutcracker repeatedly, with its whimsical tale of a nutcracker-turned-prince, a sugar plum fairy and dancing snowflakes. Apart from that staple, the company has also enjoyed unwrapping original productions that reflect the spirit of a true Filipino Christmas. We revisit these locally flavored vignettes that have not only brought cheer but offered thoughtful messages and valuable lessons so perfect for the season.

“Christmas Mash-Up a la Ballet Manila” was the perfect description for the company’s twinbill presentation in December 2014. As its title suggested, Nutkraker: Pasko na Naman Muli combined the best of two worlds. The first part consisted of excerpts from Act 2 of The Nutcracker, featuring unforgettable scenes and iconic characters from ballet’s classic yuletide tale. The second part was a tribute to the Filipino Christmas celebration using a medley of local carols led by the familiar Pasko na Naman. Ballet Manila’s choreographers Osias Barroso, Gerardo Francisco, Michael Divinagracia, Jonathan Janolo, Rudy De Dios and Francis Jaena were tapped to create new works to fill the stage with the sights, sounds, steps, colors and flavors reflecting the merriest time of the year.