As one of the most prolific choreographers in the Philippines, the late Tony Fabella holds a special place in the history of Ballet Manila. In the ‘90s, he choreographed several pieces for the fledgling company, some of which he generously gave as gifts.

One of his most significant contributions was Dancing to Verdi, which would eventually become a signature choreography of BM. Set to the music of Giuseppe Verdi, it is a challenging piece that puts on full display Ballet Manila’s mastery of the Vaganova technique.

BM is bringing back this iconic choreography for the Ballet Dance Gala of the International Dance Day Festival at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati. The four-day event is a showcase of Philippine dance, celebrating the diversity of the art form.

In this clip, principal dancer Jasmine Pia Dames is leading the charge with company artist Noah Esplana. The pair is seen in the early stages of rehearsals with the corps de ballet in preparation for the performance.

“When he choreographs, Tony would really look at the abilities of the dancers. We were just a small company back then, but he found a way to highlight our strengths. Dancing to Verdi is really something special,” shared BM treasurer Susan Macuja while watching the studio rehearsals of the piece.

Tony Fabella’s Dancing to Verdi will be seen tonight, April 27, at the Ballet Dance Gala, showcasing a new generation of Ballet Manila artists and the choreographer’s gift for highlighting the dancers’ artistry and technique.