Ballet Manila Moments: Dancing to the stories of our childhood
Since 1995, Ballet Manila has been creating unforgettable performances on stage. As the acclaimed storytellers on toes, they have breathed life to an amazing range of classical and contemporary fare. The Ballet Manila Archives celebrates some of those moments from the company’s history through this series.
National Children’s Book Day holds a special place in Ballet Manila’s heart. A good number of choreographies in the company’s arsenal is based on stories for children including the very successful Tatlong Kuwento ni Lola Basyang (2008) and its sequel Tatlo Pang Kuwento ni Lola Basyang (2013).
Ang Labindalawang Masasayang Prinsesa, part of the sequel production, was co-choreographed as well as starred in by BM artistic director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde. It tells the tale of twelve princesses who would disappear every night with their dirty shoes as the only witness to their nocturnal outings. A commoner, Silvio, is tasked to discover what the King’s daughters are up to. What he finds out will change his life, and the princesses’ as well.
In this video, Macuja-Elizalde is partnered by principal dancer Rudy De Dios. Narrating the story is the late actress Luz Fernandez whose portrayal of Lola Basyang was an important part of many Filipinos’ childhood.
As we celebrate National Children’s Book Day, we also honor Fernandez’s legacy as the country’s beloved storyteller and one of the inspirations of Ballet Manila in dancing to the stories of our childhood.
