Sometimes, all it takes is a tin can to bring joy in this season of giving. That is the lesson of Lata Ang Aming Tambol, a choreography by Ballet Manila resident choreographer and associate artistic director Gerardo Francisco Jr.  

The piece, inspired by the music of the Apo Hiking Society with the same title, celebrates the creativity of the Filipino in commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ using a tin can, their voices, and some nifty dance moves. It features a group of friends and their adventures while caroling around the neighborhood. While they may not have drums and guitars to accompany them, their enthusiasm together with their trusty lata (tin can) are more than enough to spread Christmas cheer to the homes that they visit.

In this clip is an excerpt of Lata Ang Aming Tambol featuring soloist Anselmo Dictado, and company artists Rodney Catubay, John Carl Concepcion, Alvin Dictado and Raymond Salcedo.

Ballet Manila is bringing back its Star City offering, Tala, which features Lata Ang Aming Tambol along with Hele choreographed by Michael Divinagracia, and Sana Ngayong Pasko, 12 Araw ng Pasko and other favorite Christmas choreographies by Francisco Jr.

Tala starts at 6 p.m. from Thursday to Sunday at the Star City Activity Center. It is free for all the park patrons.