Under Construction: Aladin finds the spotlight
Often an overlooked character in Francisco Baltazar’s Florante at Laura, Aladin plays a pivotal role in Florante’s journey. But his own story deserves a closer look. And in Ballet Manila’s upcoming production of the epic song, he will be given his due.
In this dance for three, the choreography highlights the struggle of Aladin with the love of his life, Flerida. While the couple are true to each other, Aladin’s father, Sultan Ali Adab, has his own desires for Flerida.
In this clip, company artist Noah Esplana and soloist Stephanie Santiago as Aladin and Flerida share romantic moments while being forced apart by principal dancer Mark Sumaylo as Sultan Ali Adab.
Ballet Manila’s Florante at Laura is a first-time collaboration between resident choreographer and principal dancer Gerardo Francisco Jr. (who was also behind the company’s adaptation of Ibong Adarna) and British guest artist Martin Lawrance (who made the Filipino-flavored retelling of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet also for the company), set to the music of National Artist Ryan Cayabyab.
