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.
Ballet Manila has showcased a rich palette of hues in its productions over the years. Now, the company’s true colors are revealed! Gathering photographs from the Ballet Manila Archives, we present the vibrant and the somber, the heavenly to the earthy, in a series of virtual exhibitions – one shade at a time.
A golden glow bathes the Ibong Adarna (Abigail Oliveiro) as she appears before the tree known as Piedras Platas, with the spotlight enhancing her costume and “plumage” in tones of ochre and yellow. Gerardo Francisco Jr.’s Ibong Adarna premiered in 2017. Photo by Giselle P. Kasilag
In the finale of her 50th birthday celebration in 2014 titled – what else but – Gold, artistic director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde appears in a stunning, sparkling gown that fittingly represents the metal symbolizing the half-century mark. Photo by Ocs Alvarez
A statue comes to life in La Bayadere, dancing at the betrothal rites of Solor and Gamzatti. It is a signature role of Gerardo Francisco Jr., seen here in the iconic Bronze Idol Variation in 2004. The Bronze Idol is also alternately called the Golden Idol. Photo by Ocs Alvarez
In 2014, Gerardo Francisco Jr. performs again as the Bronze Idol. To accomplish the character’s sheen, the dancer has to apply gold body paint on his whole body while wearing only a meager attire that shows off a well-toned physique. Photo by Ocs Alvarez
Wearing a racy gold outfit, Sofia Sangco-Peralta is the picture of glitter and glam as she sashays in the ballroom dance-inspired medley Dulce opposite partner Michael Divinagracia. Choreographed by Alberto Dimarucut and coached by Brian Babon, Dulce premiered in Halo-Halo Supreme in 2008. Photo by Ocs Alvarez
The feathered friends of Cinderella in Lisa Macuja-Elizalde’s Cinderella (2018) have a shining moment, quite literally, thanks to their metallic gold wings. This flock of birds joins a host of other enchanting creatures showcased in the fairy tale ballet. Photo by Giselle P. Kasilag
In Act 3 of Swan Lake, at the ball to announce Prince Siegfried’s choice for a bride, the program showcases a variety of entertainment fare. This includes the Neapolitan Dance which, in this 2017 production, features the characters garbed in luxe fabrics of gold and brown. Photo by Giselle P. Kasilag
