Gerardo Francisco Jr.’s Ibong Adarna, one of Ballet Manila’s most successful original full-length productions, returns to the stage this August.

Based on a Spanish-era epic poem, it is about the quest of three princes to find a cure for their ailing father. A shaman advises them to find the Adarna whose song can save the life of anyone, even those at death’s doorstep. But finding the bird with the enchanted voice is fraught with danger and only one who is pure of heart will have a chance to succeed.

“The power of this ballet lies in its choreography,” wrote ballet critic Erica Jacinto of Ibong Adarna in its world premiere in 2017. “Francisco successfully weaved patterns, created levels, and crafted sequences that were visually exciting. He has a penchant for rhythmical, electrically charged dances which all typically require precision and presence of mind to be executed well. This is consistent in all the sections throughout the ballet. The ballet’s best moments were the wonderfully shaped laudable unisons and ensemble work.”

For Ballet Manila’s 25th performance season closer, principal dancers Abigail Oliveiro, Mark Sumaylo and Romeo Peralta Jr. will reprise their roles as Ibong Adarna, Don Pedro and Don Diego, respectively. Debuting as Don Juan is principal dancer Joshua Enciso.

Gerardo Francisco’s Ibong Adarna will be on stage at the Aliw Theater on August 19, Saturday, 8 p.m., and August 20, Sunday, 5 p.m. Tickets are available at TicketWorld.