Under Construction: The feathers of Adarna
Next to its singing, it is the colorful plumage that is the most striking feature of the Adarna bird. Thus, Ballet Manila resident choreographer Gerardo Francisco Jr. took deliberate care in expressing its grandeur through dance. His award-winning piece, Ibong Adarna, achieved this by turning the corps de ballet into feathers moving gracefully and in unison with the Adarna bird herself.
In this clip, the company can be seen rehearsing that pivotal scene where the audience gets to see the Adarna bird for the first time in all her glory. Reprising the lead role is principal dancer Abigail Oliveiro. Ibong Adarna returns to the stage on Aug. 19 and 20 at the Aliw Theater.
