While Kitri is the central female figure of Don Quixote, the fiery Mercedes is always a scene-stealer whenever she is on stage.

She is a showstopper – defiantly standing her ground despite often being surrounded by rowdy men. Strong yet feminine, she holds her own against a group of matadors and slays all the challenges they throw her way. Sultry and seductive, she is the perfect foil to Espada’s display of masculinity.

In this clip is principal dancer Abigail Oliveiro as the feisty Mercedes in Ballet Manila’s 2017 production of Don Quixote.